Polish And Wax

scottmurf22 · April 16, 2009

Seems like a simple question but I have no clue what the difference is. Some people are talking about polishing then waxing. I always thought they were pretty much the same thing. So what is the difference? When do you use polish?

StLouisMO · April 16, 2009

Think of polish like sand paper and wax like polyurethane (on wood). Use the polish for paint correction (removing fine scratches, hazing, fading, etc.). Wax, usually, has no cleaning properties (depending on which one you use). So, typically, your wax is just for gettting a nice high gloss shine on your paint. However, it won't do much good and will be a waste of time if your paint isn't in good condition already.

If you're looking for something that will last longer than a wax (typically 2 to 3 months depending on where you live, weather conditions, garage, etc, etc) you should look into a paint sealant. You can get a good one for around $25 to $30. Sealants can typically last around 4 to 6 months.

For endless reading about polish, wax, sealants, and any other car care items, you should visit autopia.org. They have endless information on the forum pages. A lot of great information and recommendations.

Stylous · April 17, 2009

Here is my process...I have an '02 gmc Idigo blue and people always think my truck is new. I do this right before winter, and right before summer. I live in CA and do not garage my truck.

twice a year

1) wash

2) clay bar

3) polish w/ a "swirl mark remover" abrasiveness product. I have a circular polisher so I use 3M. If you do not know how to use a circular polisher DO NOT learn on your car. Use an orbital polisher instead.

4) Paint sealer

5) Carnauba wax

6) hand buff w/ microfiber towels.

Washing process (as needed, usually once a week)

1) always out of direct sunlight, and usually in the evening.

2) use a microfiber mitt w/ 1" nap strings

3) 5 gallon home depot bucket WITH sand grill on the bottom

4) use a good soap w/ conditioners.

5) wash from top down. DO NOT go back up when you reach the bottom. Use the sand grill and wash the mitt out again. That keeps you from getting spider webs.

6) rinse the car down after every section

7) dry with microfiber towels, lightly! Let the air help dry it.

Once a month

1) wash

2) give it a once over with a spray on wax.

scottmurf22 · April 17, 2009

Thanks Guys.. Great information

Dukers · April 17, 2009

Here is my process...I have an '02 gmc Idigo blue and people always think my truck is new. I do this right before winter, and right before summer. I live in CA and do not garage my truck.

twice a year

1) wash

2) clay bar

3) polish w/ a "swirl mark remover" abrasiveness product. I have a circular polisher so I use 3M. If you do not know how to use a circular polisher DO NOT learn on your car. Use an orbital polisher instead.

4) Paint sealer

5) Carnauba wax

6) hand buff w/ microfiber towels.

Washing process (as needed, usually once a week)

1) always out of direct sunlight, and usually in the evening.

2) use a microfiber mitt w/ 1" nap strings

3) 5 gallon home depot bucket WITH sand grill on the bottom

4) use a good soap w/ conditioners.

5) wash from top down. DO NOT go back up when you reach the bottom. Use the sand grill and wash the mitt out again. That keeps you from getting spider webs.

6) rinse the car down after every section

7) dry with microfiber towels, lightly! Let the air help dry it.

Once a month

1) wash

2) give it a once over with a spray on wax.

yeah thanks i was looking for this info in my thread awhile back but nobody takes me seriously around here no more.

everyone thinks im stoned

Stylous · April 17, 2009

Here is my process...I have an '02 gmc Idigo blue and people always think my truck is new. I do this right before winter, and right before summer. I live in CA and do not garage my truck.

twice a year

1) wash

2) clay bar

3) polish w/ a "swirl mark remover" abrasiveness product. I have a circular polisher so I use 3M. If you do not know how to use a circular polisher DO NOT learn on your car. Use an orbital polisher instead.

4) Paint sealer

5) Carnauba wax

6) hand buff w/ microfiber towels.

Washing process (as needed, usually once a week)

1) always out of direct sunlight, and usually in the evening.

2) use a microfiber mitt w/ 1" nap strings

3) 5 gallon home depot bucket WITH sand grill on the bottom

4) use a good soap w/ conditioners.

5) wash from top down. DO NOT go back up when you reach the bottom. Use the sand grill and wash the mitt out again. That keeps you from getting spider webs.

6) rinse the car down after every section

7) dry with microfiber towels, lightly! Let the air help dry it.

Once a month

1) wash

2) give it a once over with a spray on wax.

yeah thanks i was looking for this info in my thread awhile back but nobody takes me seriously around here no more.

everyone thinks im stoned

No prob...glad to help. I have been doing detailing/bosy work since I was in my teens and have made a lot of mistakes I try and help others avoid. Dark cars are a challenge, but if take some easy, smart steps you can keep them looking nice for a really long time.