The days when choosing a car wax came down to which paste had the snazziest can are long gone. Car wax today comes in various forms that utilize an array of polymers and other ingredients both natural and synthetic that provide it with UV resistance, the ability to repair surface imperfections and a durability that older paste waxes could only dream of. In this review guide we’re going to highlight those modern car waxes we feel stand head and shoulders above the competition.
The Best Car Wax
1SHINE ARMOR Fortify Quick Coat Car Wax
According to advertised claims, the finish of the Shine Armor wax can stay put for over one year. However, for better appearance and long-term results, you should apply the wax at least once a month because it may wear off quickly under adverse weather conditions. As for the quantity, the Shine Armor comes in an 8-ounce bottle, and if used as recommended, it may last more than one month. What’s more, the Shine car wax can be applied on sealed surfaces of cars, boats, remote vehicles and even countertops.
The application process of the Shine Armor car wax is quite easy. You just have to spray a little amount of the product on the surface you intend on cleaning. Then, carefully buff the surface with a dry microfiber towel before the wax gets dried. Repeat this process until you get your desired results. However, it’s important that you wash the surface before applying the wax. This is so that you don’t waste large amounts of the product covering dirt rather than waxing your vehicle. Inasmuch as you can apply the wax any time you want, it would be work better if it’s applied on a cool surface that is not exposed to the sun directly. All in all, the Shine Armor does not only improve the appearance of your vehicle but also protects it with the addition of the silicon dioxide coating formula.
8 ounces
No smearing
Suitable for various surfaces
Complete money-back guarantee
- BrandSHINE ARMOR
- ModelSA-Fortify-FBA
- Weight6.4 ounces
2Aero Cosmetics Car Wax
Aero Cosmetics Waterless Car Wash is a favorite of the armed forces as well as the high and mighty who want their limo or private aircraft to dazzle.
The Aero Cosmetics Waterless Car Wax can either be used by itself (instead of a traditional water wash) or it can be sprayed onto a car that’s just been washed with water and is still wet. In that case you’ll be able to wax the car as you dry it.
No alcoholic or ammonic ingredient
4 microfiber towels
16-ounce spray container
Skin and environmentally friendly
- BrandAero Cosmetics
- Model777GK
- Weight10.6 pounds
Ammonia and alcohol free Aero waterless car wax if fully biodegradable.
Spray Aero wax on your car after traditional wash and wax your car as you dry it.
If you’re not thrilled they’ll give you your money back.
You’ll probably wind up using more than you expect to.
3Car Guys Hybrid Wax Spray
Wash your car then treat it to Car Guys Hybrid Car Wax sealant with UV protection for a finish that will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Sometimes you’re just too busy to subject your car to a full on wash and wax. In those cases you need something to provide a high quality short term finish. That would be Car Guys Hybrid Spray Car Wax Sealant. It does an outstanding job of filling the void between detailing sessions. This is a perfect gift for car lovers.
Over 6 months of durability
Hydrophobic ingredients
18-ounce kit
Suitable for all surfaces
- BrandCarGuys
- ModelFBA_HW-18OZ-KIT
- Weight1.45 pounds
Anyone can ramp up the luster with this super easy to use car wax.
Intended to hold you over between comprehensive car wax jobs.
Comes with an edgeless microfiber towel to ensure you achieve the optimal finish.
4Chemical Guys WAC22916 HydroSlick Car Wax
Chemical Guys understand that you want things easy and quick, hence, they have designed the WAC22916 HydroSlick Ceramic Coating HyperWax. This product not only takes a few minutes to be applied but also lasts longer than the most waxes out there. And since the Chemical Guys WAC22916 HydroSlick has a ceramic coating, it will maintain its glossy finish even under the most adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the Chemical Guys WAC22916 is infused with an advanced silicon dioxide formula that instantly activates its hydrophobic protection properties when it comes in contact with any surface. Hence, you don’t have to worry about squinting through dirty windows.
Additionally, it uses silicon dioxide which is a naturally-derived mineral found in sand and stone, hence, it is environmentally friendly. For this reason, acid rain, dirt, abrasions or any other form of contamination has nothing on your vehicle. What’s more, the silicon dioxide formula is responsible for preserving the original stylish appearance of your car. After using the Chemical Guys WAC22916 HydroSlick HyperWax for the first time, you will regret ever using other products. This is because it offers maximum protection to your vehicle while giving a long-lasting finish. To apply the Chemical Guys WAC22916, you first have to wash your car and then pour the product on the surface. After which you have to wait for a minute or two and then, use a microfiber towel to buff it off. And you’re good to go!
Fortified with silicon dioxide
16-ounce kit
Ceramic coating
Quick application process
- BrandChemical Guys
- ModelWAC22916
- Weight1.2 pounds
5Meguiar’s G18220 Ultimate Liquid Wax
The power of a good car wax lies in its ability to protect your car from ultra-violet rays, mud, oil, and other contaminants – the Meguiar G18220 Ultimate Liquid Wax does these perfectly. Also, this wax is formulated for easy application. In fact, you shouldn’t spend more than 30 minutes applying it on any surface. And even though it’s not as convenient as spray waxes, you won’t break a sweat when applying it. Ever wondered why some cars outshine others when it comes to luster, depth of color and durability? Well, a good car wax does that. The Meguiar G18220 Ultimate Liquid Wax gives your car a shiny and glossy finish that will stand the test of time.
Furthermore, this product has a synthetic-hydrophobic-polymer-based design that increases surface tension above the paint finish, thereby making it water repellant. However, we must add that the water-resistance properties of this wax can be enhanced by expertly applying it after a good wash. The quantity of car wax also matters a lot. While some can only serve you for one-time use, the Meguiar G18220 Ultimate wax will definitely serve you longer because it comes in a 20-ounce kit. And if for can’t afford that quantity, you can opt for the 16-ounce bottle, which is cheaper but offers the same quality. As if that’s not enough, Meguiar also provides a microfiber cloth as part of the application kit to help you buff off the product after applying it.
Super-fast application process
Maximum UV protection
20 ounce bottle
Hydrophobic technology
- BrandMeguiar’s
- ModelG18220
- Weight1.5 pounds
6Liquid Glass LG-100 Car Wax
Liquid Glass car polish provides first class protection against road salt, tree sap, bird droppings, acid rain and other environmental hazards.
Liquid Glass car wax will likely provide your car with the most incredible shine it’s ever had. It’s like sealing your car in a layer of polyurethane except that it won’t yellow over time like poly. It’s a pretty amazing product at a thoroughly reasonable price.
Car wax that won’t ever peel, chip, crack or yellow.
The highly reflective finish is tough as nails and never needs to be stripped.
Incredibly easy to use just wash the car, apply the Liquid Glass auto wax, let it dry and buff.
Good luck should you ever decide to remove it for any reason.
7Chemical Guys Butter Wet Wax
Chemical Guys Butter Wet Car Wax makes all your car’s non textured surfaces look good as new. Easy to use and UV resistant, it’s fast becoming a high-end car care standard.
Chemical Guys car wax goes on smooth as butter and is a cinch to wipe off. When finished your car is going to look great from the wheels to the sunroof. It provides high levels of UV protection and does a good job of protecting against common scourges like bird droppings, tree sap and acid rain.
Chemical Guys Butter Wet Car Wax is made from 100% carnauba wax.
Provides a deep wet resonant look to any paint finish.
Use it on the chrome, windshield, wheels and more.
Don’t expect it to last more than a couple of weeks.
8Zymol Carbon
Zymol Carbon Car Wax is intended for use on darker color cars but truth be told it does an outstanding job on lighter color cars as well.
We don’t care if this product changes from lead into gold when exposed to the air. All we really care about is if it works. And boy does it ever. It provides a really deep satisfying glow to your car without a ton of effort or expense. The three hallmarks of a quality car wax. Our handy guide to the best car gadgets features more great produc0ts for your car so check it out.
A hybrid “zyme” that reacts to air when you apply it and becomes a first class car wax.
37% pure Brazilian Carnauba by volume.
Provides excellent protection for all cars but really shows its stuff on black cars.
They recommend you don’t apply it to your car until you first wash it with their HD-Cleanse.
9McKee’s 360 Paint Sealant
McKee makes a lot of claims about its ability to clean up after other waxes as well as Mother Nature and the good news is that, for the most part, it delivers.
A great overall car wax that will leave your vehicle with a rich, satisfying shine while correcting some tiny imperfections and protecting against the big bad sun. It requires a bit more elbow grease than some other waxes but most will find the end result very satisfying.
Contains micro-abrasives that gently scour the paint surface removing imperfections.
A high grade polymer protects your car from hazards like UV rays and acid rain.
Leaves your car’s finish looking silky smooth.
Don’t look for those nice little beads of water after using this car wax.
10Mothers California Gold Carnauba Paste
A throwback type of package masks a thoroughly modern product based on Brazilian Carnauba wax that will have your car’s surface singin’ in the rain.
Mother’s California Gold car wax is great for those who like to spend a Sunday afternoon washing and waxing the car. As with most paste wax products it requires more physical investment but the end result is so satisfying you’ll be eager to do it again.
Intended as the 3rd step in the company’s car wax ‘system’ this product also holds its own.
Delivers convincingly on its promise to create a smooth, luxurious finish.
You get a great finished product for pretty short money.
You might have to use it several times to enjoy the finish this car wax can provide.
11CarGuys Liquid
Formulated to be easier on the arms than most traditional paste waxes, Car Guys Synthetic paint sealant shelters your paint job behind a high gloss layer of protection.
You really can’t lose with Car Guys liquid car wax sealant. It leaves your car looking great while also protecting it from environmental hazards. Carnauba wax is known for its heat resistance and durability so you won’t be outside re-waxing every 2 weeks. Comes with its own microfiber towel.
An effective rain barrier protecting your car from atmospheric pollutants.
Easy to apply and just as easy to buff out so the process won’t exhaust you.
Patented polymer formula integrates the latest advances in nano spec tech.
Costs a little more than some other waxes.
12Autoglym Vinyl & Rubber Care
Not strictly a car wax, Autoglym Vinyl and Rubber Care works its magic on the peripherals so that your whole car looks its very best at all times.
Perhaps the best vinyl care on the market Autoglym Vinyl and Rubber Care leaves the inside of your car as well as exterior trim elements looking as good as the rest of the vehicle. Easy to use and lightly scented, it’s a must have component of any car care system.
Seeps into textured surfaces of the car and provides them with a full range of protections as well as a showroom quality appearance.
The protective barrier is anti-static to prevent your interior from becoming a dust magnet.
An important car care product but not a true car wax.
13Super Hard Shell Paste
An American classic, Turtle Wax Hard Shell Paste Car Wax gets the job done and then some and for a price that will leave you shaking your head.
If you’re looking for dependable protection against environmental hazards as well as a shine that will make your car look like new again and all for the price of bacon air freshener, Turtle Wax is the wax for you.
Provides robust UV protection.
Goes on nice and easy and buffs out to a great shine.
Been around for decades for one simple reason: it works.
Is a bit of work but what do you want for this price?
14Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid
An extraordinary liquid wax that will make you love the way water beads up on your car after using Meguiar’s Liquid Car Wax and you’ll love the fact that you didn’t have to sacrifice your arm to get a great result. If you really want something to cheer about, buff it out with an orbital buffer.
Waxing your car in direct sunlight is no longer an issue with Meguiar’s liquid car wax.
Won’t turn white if it gets on your trim by accident.
Effortless application and just as easy to wipe off.
Not the longest lasting car wax on the market though your car will look great.
Car Wax Buyers Questions
The following are some common questions consumers have about car wax.
Q: What Is The Best Car Wax?
A: Any of the waxes in our list will fit the bill. They all produce professional results and won’t make much of a dent in your wallet.
Q: How Should You Wax Your Car?
A: This depends entirely on the type of wax you’re using but applying wax whether spray, liquid or paste to a dirty car is a sure way to destroy the finish.
Q: How Many Time Per Year Should You Wax Your Car?
A: This comes down to a few different dynamics, so we’re going to break it down by some different scenarios. If you love your car like we do, you want to keep it polished and protected, looking like a shooting star every time you drive down the boulevard. Here’s a few different instances where you need to wax your car.
If you’re parking your car in an underground parking garage, or your own personal garage, then you’re not exposing it to the elements. That’s a good thing. Wind, rain, snow, rapidly-changing temperatures—they all play a part into how long you finish will last. In this instance, you only need to wax your car twice per year to keep that glow.
Street parking is harsh. You wonder if someone’s going to break into it, especially if it’s too flashy, but the real risk is ruining the paint by leaving it outdoors in the blistering sun. Ever seen a plastic children’s toy out in the yard, and the colors are all faded? That’s because they’ve been sun bleached. It’s not all that different from how the sun affects your car, either. They’re not made of metal anymore. If you live in the sunshine state and your car is in the driveway or out on the street, wax four times per year to ensure minimum sun damage to your finish and that maximum shine that we’re all going doe.
Cold climates are rough on your skin; imagine what they’re doing to your paintjob. As everything in winter expands and contracts, it also changes shape slightly. Little scuffs on your finish can fill with snow and ice, and from there, it expands and contracts (especially when you’re driving with the wind chill to consider). Slapping on a finish six times per year is best if you’re in New England or Alaska, where you’re seeing more cold than anything else. Even if you park in the garage, your car is still susceptible every time you take it out for a spin.
Q: What Is The #1 Car Wax To Remove Scratches?
A: A car wax cannot actually remove a scratch that goes through the clear coat. What it can do instead is hide them. Some do a better job of hiding/disguising scratches than others. Of the waxes on our list Meguiar’s Liquid Wax is considered to be effective.
Q: Who Makes The Best Car Wax?
A: Ask a dozen car enthusiasts which is the best wax and you’ll likely get a dozen different answers. The best thing to do is try several types and decide for yourself which works best for you and your car, along with awesome car gadgets.
Q: What’s The Difference Between Wax And Polish?
A: Wax is a protector, much like when you wax a floor, while polish aims to fill in those microfractures and splits on your finish and keep it nice and smooth. The difference between them is pretty simple once you know it—protective coating to prevent scratches, coating to fill in the scratches and keep your car smooth.
Q: Do You Wax Or Polish First?
A: This is where it can get a wee bit tricky. We know that polish fills in those little scuffs and scrapes that we can’t see with the naked human eye. Wax protects the car from enduring those. So shouldn’t it just make sense to slap on polish first? Well, you’d be right, but you have to approach it properly.
If you apply polish, let it dry, and then immediately apply wax, you’re going to run into a problem. Now, this depends on what brand you use and what their ingredients are, but nine times out of ten, you’re going to run into one issue: the wax doesn’t stick.
It’s better to apply polish, drive around for 2-3 days, and then apply the wax. Reason being is this: your car is going to endure some wear and tear as you go through life. It’s why you’re polishing and waxing. However, applying something smooth to a smooth surface isn’t always a foolproof solution. Sometimes, the wax feels like it’s melting off, and just doesn’t look right. When you drive around for a bit, it’s like you’re using the wind as a sandpaper on your car to allow the wax to stick. Drive around a bit, have your fun, then wax on (no wax off).
Q: What Is The Best Car Wax For Long Term Protection?
A: Liquid Glass LG100 is the best of the items in our list and without a doubt one of the best there is period.
Q: What Is The Best Car Wax To Use On A Black Car?
A: Once again we have to defer to Meguiar’s Liquid Wax as it’s specifically formulated with dark colored cars in mind.
Things To Look For When Buying Car Wax
While buying car wax isn’t rocket science, it’s closer to rocket science than it was 30 years ago so there are some things you’ll want to look for in the car wax you buy.
Delivery Method – Waxes come in paste, liquid and spray form and which one you use will be a matter of how hard you want to work to buff it out. Spray waxes are typically easy to buff with liquids being the next easiest and pastes typically being the most labor intensive.
Natural or Synthetic – Natural waxes like carnauba wax provide a deep, rich shine that’s very satisfying to behold. Synthetic waxes by comparison will provide a harder, higher gloss that some feel looks almost like you wrapped your car in glass. So it comes down to taste.
Machine or Hand Polish – While many folks will choose one or the other, if you really want your car to have a gold-medal shine you’ll want to do both. It will take longer and require more work to be sure, but the final result will speak for itself.
Price – While you’re not going to pay an arm and a leg for any car wax, you’ll probably find out for yourself that there isn’t a big difference between the results you get with a $20 car wax and the result you get from a $90 car wax.
Conclusion
Car wax today is way more sophisticated than it was in your parent’s day. However, the reason for using it hasn’t changed: to make your car look showroom new. Every car wax profiled above will do just that.
