What products to use and how to wax a vehicle

Quickly remove any doubts you have about waxing your vehicle. Follow these simple steps and see your car shine like never before!

Background:
I have waxed and detailed cars professionally at dealerships and in my spare time for other individuals. Also, I have waxed large boats for boat dealerships.

Why wax your vehicle?
Waxing a car removes small scratches and can potentially increase the value of a car. Also, rain leaves less spots and it is easier to keep your car clean afterwords. If you have larger scratches, it might be of interest to use a buffer. This will not be discussed in this instructable due to the liability from possibly "burning through" the clear coat of your vehicle.

Step 1: Suggestions on what products to use to clean up your vehicle

Wax: Turtle Wax Car Wax
Chrome / Metal Polish: Turtle Wax Chrome & Metal Polish
Glass Cleaner: ArmorAll Glass Cleaner
Tire Shine: ArmorAll Tire Foam
Black Plastic Restorer: Meguiars Ultimate Black    Optional
1 Microfiber towel
3-5 clean rags

All of these products should be available at your nearest auto parts store.

Side notes:
I have experimented with other products, but ArmorAll and Turtle Wax both make quality products. Almost all other products are used in the same fashion. Still, it is important to make sure to read the labels to avoid a poor outcome or even damage to your vehicle.

Comments

[isaacwilk]

It would be awesome if you could add a polishing/cutting compound section to this. I'm having a bit of trouble getting that perfect glossy shine on my car...

[nikolast]

I will definitely try to add a section for this next time I wax the Mustang. Too bad it is mid winter here but in the spring I will try to do that for you!

[jake82465]

Do you recommend clay barring a car?

[nikolast]

If you want to go one extra step, you could use it before a polishing wax. It seems to make the wax last slightly longer.

[andrea biffi]

or you call Karate Kid! ;-)

[audreyobscura]

What are your thoughts on mechanical buffing tools?

[nikolast]

I would say that mechanical buffers are great investments and will increase the likelihood of removing scratches. I use one once a year prior to hand wax with a polishing compound. The only issue is you do have to be careful with the speed and pressure as you can potentially damage the paint.