What Is Waxing and Why Is It Important? 

What Is Waxing and Why Is It Important?

Waxing your car is one of the most effective ways to protect its paint and give it that showroom-like shine. If you’re wondering about the ideal frequency and timing for a wax-inclusive wash, Ultimate Shine’s team of experts is here to help! They can answer all your questions — plus a few you might not have thought to ask. 

Whether you’ve never waxed your car before or you’re already a seasoned pro, there’s always more to learn about this important car-care step. From the basics of in-wash wax to expert tips, read on for the most frequently asked questions. 

Basic Questions

1. What’s the difference between washing and waxing?
Washing and waxing are two different services; however, today’s high-technology car washes, like the ones at Ultimate Shine, offer both within the automated wash. A basic, standard car wash service removes dirt, grime, and contaminants from the surface. A higher-tier wash service that includes wax adds a protective layer over the paint and creates a glossy finish for a longer-lasting clean and shine. 

2. What does wax actually do for a car?
Waxing a car fills in tiny imperfections and scratches in the paint, creating a smoother surface that reflects light for a glossy finish. And because car wax is hydrophobic, it repels water, so rain beads up and rolls off the surface.

3. Is waxing really necessary, or is it just cosmetic?
Waxing is more than just cosmetic! It actually helps protect your car’s paint. Wax shields the surface from contaminants, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions, which can cause fading, discoloration, and paint damage over time. It not only makes your car look better, but also helps preserve the longevity of your car’s finish.

4. How do I know if my car needs a wax?
If your car’s surface feels rough or water doesn’t bead up on it, it may be time to wax it. A lack of shine or a faded finish can also indicate the need for waxing. To check, lightly run your fingers over the paint; if you feel resistance or it feels rough or gritty, then head to an Ultimate Shine near you. 

5. What happens if I never wax my car?
If you never wax your car, the paint will become susceptible to contaminants, which can cause fading, discoloration, and rust. Regular washing keeps your car clean, but waxing is important for long-term protection and helps preserve both its appearance and value. Ultimate Shine’s Wash & Wax, Ultimate Shine Wash, and Ultimate Ceramix Wash contain in-wash hot wax that can help keep your vehicle shiny even if you don’t wax your car by hand.

Tunnel Questions

6. What does it mean when wax is included in a car wash?
During the car wash, wax is applied to the vehicle’s surface in a thin, even coating, which over time, with frequent washing, can help protect your vehicle’s paint.

7. Why is it important to choose a car wash that includes wax?
Wax provides a protective layer that helps preserve the paint and keeps it looking sparkling-clean. It also helps protect against dirt, road salts, bird droppings, and tree sap, amongst other environmental elements, and helps keep those contaminants from bonding to the surface. Plus, the glossy finish can give it that like-new shine!

8. Is the wax from a car wash tunnel as good as hand-applied wax?
Wax from a car wash tunnel provides good protection and shine, and is perfect for regular upkeep. Plus, frequent washing can build up layers of wax for even better protection. Every Ultimate Shine location offers tunnel washes that include wax. 

9. How does a tunnel car wash apply wax?
In a tunnel car wash, wax is typically applied by automated machines that spray a thin layer of liquid wax onto your car after it’s been rinsed. As the car moves through the tunnel, a soft cloth or brush helps spread the wax evenly across the paint. The wax is then buffed lightly as your car exits the wash.

10. Do different car wash companies use different types of wax, or is it the same from company to company?
Yes, different car wash companies use different types of wax compounds to produce their desired level of shine and protection.Ultimate Shine’s hot wax is a natural wax that’s derived from organic materials, and it yields a super-rich shine and gloss.

11. What kind of wax is used in car washes? Is it the same as beeswax or candle wax?
The wax used to polish and shine a vehicle’s surface is not the same as beeswax or candle wax. It’s formulated to provide durability and protection against the elements, while beeswax and candle wax are softer and not suitable for automotive applications. The wax used in car washes can be made from natural substances or synthetic polymers.

12. How often should I choose a wash that includes wax?
Selecting a wash that includes wax regularly can help keep your car looking shiny and protect it from contaminants, UV damage, and wear over time. 

13. Should wax be applied to a brand-new car during a car wash?
Waxing helps protect the paint from the elements, keeps it looking fresh and new, shields it from scratches and UV damage, and helps prevent premature rust spots, so applying it to a brand-new car during a wash is completely safe and recommended.

14. Should wax be applied to an old car during a car wash?
Yes, wax should be applied to an old car, too! It helps protect the paint from further deterioration, reducing the appearance of minor imperfections, and, of course, adds a glossy finish. Waxing can breathe new life into an older car and help preserve its value.

15. Should I get a car wash with a wax before a big road trip, or after?
It’s best to wax your car before a big road trip to protect the paint from bugs, dirt, UV rays, and other contaminants. It also makes it easier to clean your car after the trip, since wax will help keep the debris from sticking.

Performance Questions

16. Does driving in the rain or through puddles affect my wax application? Does the wax protect against it?
Water can affect your wax application, but wax does provide some level of protection. Wax helps water bead up and roll off, protecting your paint from water spots and contaminants. Frequent exposure to puddles or rain can wear down the wax over time. 

17. Do ice, snow, and cold temperatures affect my wax job? Does the wax protect against them? What about road salt?
Ice, snow, and cold temperatures alone won’t affect the wax, but road salt can. Salt from winter roads can degrade wax over time, leading to surface damage and corrosion if not removed. Wax does offer some protection, but you should wash your car regularly during the winter to remove salt and keep the wax job intact.

18. Does parking in a garage or under shelter keep the wax fresher longer than parking outside?
Yes, parking in a garage or under shelter helps protect your wax job by limiting exposure to environmental elements like sunlight, tree sap, bird droppings, etc. Keeping your car sheltered reduces the need for frequent waxing and helps maintain the protective layer for a longer period.

19. Will dry or humid conditions affect a wax application? Does wax protect against that kind of weather?
Yes, the wax applied to your vehicle can be affected by dry or humid conditions. Very dry conditions may cause the wax to wear down faster, and high humidity may affect how long it takes the wax to dry and can also lead to water spots. While wax does provide some protection against these conditions, it can’t completely prevent their effects. 

20. Does extreme heat affect a wax application? Does the wax protect against extremely high heat?
Yes, the wax applied to your vehicle can be affected by extremely high heat. High temperatures can cause the wax to wear down faster, especially if your car is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time. Wax can offer some protection against UV rays, but it won’t completely shield the paint from the long-term effects of heat. To best extend the longevity of your wax service, try to park in shaded areas or use a car cover when possible.

21. How well does wax protect against bird droppings or tree sap?
Wax creates a barrier that makes it harder for bird droppings or tree sap to stick to your  vehicle’s paint. However, these contaminants can damage the paint if left for too long, so be sure to clean them off as soon as possible.

Value Questions

22. Does waxing help maintain a vehicle’s resale value?
Yes, waxing can help maintain a vehicle’s resale value because it protects the paint and keeps it looking smooth and glossy. 

23. What’s the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive wash packages at a normal car wash?
Cheaper wash packages typically include basic services like washing and rinsing, with few additional treatments. The most expensive wash packages often include extras like waxing or polishing services. In general, the top-tier package at a car wash offers the most services.

24. Are there car wash memberships that include waxing?
The Ultimate Shine Wash & Wax, Ultimate Shine Wash, and Ultimate Ceramix Wash unlimited memberships all include hot wax, so you can benefit from the in-wash wax application every time you visit. 

Myths 

25. Can waxing cause my car’s paint to fade or peel? 
No, waxing won’t cause your car’s paint to fade or peel. In fact, it helps protect the paint from UV rays, dirt, and contaminants that can cause fading and damage over time. 

26. Is it bad to wax a dirty car?
Yes. Waxing over dirt, grime, or other contaminants can trap particles under the wax, which may scratch the paint when buffing. Always wash and dry your car thoroughly before waxing to ensure the surface is clean, smooth, dry, and free from debris that could damage the paint during the waxing process.

27. Can you wax too often?
Waxing too often won’t damage your car, but a good way to tell when it’s time to wax again is by observing how water beads on the surface. 

28. Does adding wax to the exterior of a car make it slippery or less safe to drive?
No, waxing your car won’t make it slippery or less safe. Wax simply creates a smooth, shiny layer that boosts your car’s appearance and helps protect the paint. It doesn’t change how it handles or affect its safety. 

So there you have it — everything you ever wanted to know about car wax, and then some! We hope this helped answer your questions and gave you the confidence to wax like a pro. Now, just head to your nearest Ultimate Shine! All of our locations offer washes that include wax for that like-new shine. And if you’re not sure which wash to choose or have any other questions, just talk to a team member and they’ll be happy to assist you.