Q&A for How to Apply Car Polish

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Question

Should I use wax or liquid polish?

Community Answer

Personally, I use both. I use liquid polish first; then, after cleaning up the excess polish, I apply wax by hand to protect the polishing work I did. I would recommend a similar routine.

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Question

Should I polish a car in the sunlight?

Community Answer

Never polish the car under direct sunlight. For best results always dry the car first, keep it in a shaded area, and polish it there.

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Question

What's the minimum temperature to polish car?

Community Answer

Anything above freezing, but it's better to polish it in warmer temperatures.

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Question

Does car polish have any negative effects on the paint?

Community Answer

It will not have any negative effects on the paint as long as it is done right. Be sure to follow the instructions properly so that you do not harm the paint.

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Question

Is it necessary to always polish before waxing the car?

Community Answer

Polish only when needed. If the finish is still bright and shiny you can just use a wax treatment. Clay barring is also a great idea for newer cars and can give some of the shine back quickly.

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Question

When should I polish again once I have completed the polish and wax process? Will washing remove the shine from the car?

Community Answer

No, not if you have properly polished the paint and sealed the polish with a wax or similar sealant. Just make sure that you use a car wash that is safe for use on wax, as some car washes can actually remove the wax coating.

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Question

I have a brand new car, and after the winter I want to give it a good wax. I can't see any swirls or scratches, but it feels a little rough after a wash, should I clay bar first and then wax?

Community Answer

Drag a deodorant stick across all rough areas to ensure all cracks and scratches are filled, then buff with toothpaste and wax. It works wonders!

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