When you wax a freshly painted car, you’re risking damaging the finish. Here’s why: Waxing a newly painted car can cause the paint to peel. Peeling paint is similar to sunburn — it causes the layer of top coat that protects the underlying paint to come off. This exposes the substrate, which is essentially raw paint. Waxing a newly painted car also removes any sealant that was applied during the painting process. This means that rain and other elements will eventually seep into and damage the paint beneath the sealant, leading to dullness and eventual peeling.
What You’ll Need
If you wax a newly painted car, the paint will be damaged and there is a greater risk of staining. The best way to avoid this is to wait at least 72 hours after painting your car before waxing it.
How to Wax a New Car
If you’ve never waxed a car before, there are a few things you should know before getting started. First, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Second, use a mild wax that will not irritate the paint. Third, be patient; it can take up to an hour to finish a whole car. Fourth, use a polisher to remove any excess wax. Finally, use a microfiber towel to buff the paint until it shines.
Tips for a Smooth Finish
If you’ve never waxed a freshly painted car before, here are some tips to help make the process go as smoothly as possible:
1. Make sure the surface is clean and free of any dust, dirt, or oils.
2. Apply a coat of wax to the paintwork using a cloth or applicator pad. Start at one end of the car and move towards the other.
3. Work the wax into the paintwork with your fingers, using circular, back-and-forth motions.
4. Use a second cloth or applicator pad to buff off the wax using firm, back-and-forth strokes.
Clean Up Tips
If you wax a newly painted car, you may end up with a really dull finish. Here are some tips to help clean up the paint:
1. Use a degreaser first to remove any residual wax or cleaning agent.
2. Use a soft cloth to buff the paint until it’s shiny and free of dust or scratches.
3. Add a coat of sealant if needed to protect the finish from further weathering or scratches.
The Result
If you wax a newly painted car, the paint will be ruined. The wax will adhere to the new paint, and it will be very difficult to remove. The wax will also leave a residue on the car that can be very difficult to remove.