What’s The Difference Between Car Wax & Polish
With so many products on the market today, it is easy to get confused on which product is wax and/or polish. Here we explain the differences between the two products and how to use them effectively.
Polish
Car polish is normally sold under brand names such as T-Cut which is a very fine version of rubbing compund. This removes a very thin layer of paint to restore the original shine of the bodywork. You will see the paint colour on your cloth when polishing, this is normal so don’t freak out. Polish is also useful for cleaning off bugs, tarspots, scuff marks and suchlike. Some products contain both polish and wax so not only do they clean the paintwork, they leave a protective layer of wax too. It is recommended that paint is waxed after polishing to add a layer of protection. Think of polishing as leaving the paint ‘naked’ and vulnerable.
Wax
Wax is a product which can be used regularly to provide a protective layer on your precious bodywork. Regular waxing maintains a nice shine on your car and helps to protect the paint. When it comes to washing your car, the dirt will be easy to remove as the wax makes it difficult for the dirt to stick.
Now we have explained the differences between wax and polish, we hope this can help our readers make informed choices on products for their precious cars. Please feel free to comment if there is anything I have missed.
4 Responses to “What’s The Difference Between Car Wax & Polish”
By Nick Roehrick on Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
I think one thing that people should consider when a wax vs. polish discussion comes up is the environment you are driving in. If it is not that hot, so a wax is not going to have the melting effect that it would, say in Yuma Az where it get 115 deg and higher.
Have you considered testing out some waterless wash and waxes/polishes. A great evolution of the detailing industry has arisen with the eco friendly aspects of waterless car care, and the ease of application. Most are safe of clear coats and gel coats alike- but make sure that they are using a carnauba wax or other protective agent like a polish, and it isn’t just a wash…
Turtle Wax is great wax. Lengthy process but fairly easy to use. Although, I am an advocate of the waterless wash and wax products. 99% of the products live up to their claim. A few things to consider with any waterless car car product:
1. With any paste wax or treatment that claims up to 12 months- in what situation and in what environment. The problem with traditional waxing is that it does last longer, but how do you know when it has stopped working (for the average consumer).
2. The easier the wax goes on, the easier it comes off. So waterless products will come off earlier, probably about 6-8 weeks of protection, but the great thing is, joe shmoe can now wash and wax in minutes, weekly or every other week and he is guaranteed to have protection 24/7 and enjoy the other countless benefits of a waterless wash and wax. Whereas, Thomas Turtle and his paste wax will have longer protection, with a lengthier process and he better be consistent to reapply and actually REMEMBER when to wax again- Most people don’t- I don’t and I am in the industry!
3. So waterless is the way to go in 2008. Choose a reputable product, that is simple. So many products claim to be waterless and then you find yourself mixing harmful chemicals, shaking, pumping, and stirring or what not.
4. MAKE SURE there is wax- A premium carnauba wax or polymer polish or similar for protection. We want clean and protected, not just clean.
5. How easy does it wipe off when using it. Check Youtube.com for companies with Video demonstrations and or instructions. Most waterless companies that believe in their product are showing it off in this manner. GREAT, now we can all see the efficacy!
To all the waterless companies around the country/world, thanks for being so eco friendly, keep pushing for the best wash and wax products for our faithful customers.
Nick Roehrick
Vice President
http://www.topsecretwax.com
By Matthew on Jul 4, 2008 | Reply
What do you think about Meguirs wax and Zymol wax compared to less expensive waxes and polishes. Are they really worth it?
Thanks
Matthew
By admin on Jul 6, 2008 | Reply
Hi Matthew.
I can’t really comment on this because I have not used them so it wouldn’t be fair to judge them just on what I have heard from others.
How about you Matt? You used them?
By Matthew on Jul 14, 2008 | Reply
Hi,
No, I’ve not used them - just wondering what the difference is between “halfords” type waxes and polishes, and the “professional” type of waxes and polishes.
Thanks
Matthew