When to wax?

Question

I seem to recall that it's best to wait a while (2 months? 4? 6? not sure) before waxing the exterior of a new car. Something about allowing the paint to dry or cure or something. But, unless I missed it, my '04 Forester owner's manual just says, in so many words, "Wax the car." No limitations or cautions about when.

I'd appreciate some advice. Shall I just wax away tomorrow? Or wait and, if so, how long? If wait, why, exactly?

Thanks.

HW

Fred · Accepted Answer

Go ahead and wax.  If you want a great car polish, go to   Itried their Z1 and Z2 and used a claybar before applying Z1 and Z2, for thefirst time and I was amazed.  Takes alittle more time, but it is will worthit.  Fred

Paul Diamond · Answer

I've been told that the amount of time the car spends on the boat comingover is sufficient enough time for the paint to cure. With today's improvedpaints it "cures" quicker than in the past.

someone · Answer

It was probably already waxed at the dealership when it went on the lot.  Gofor it whenever you have the energy/time.

Jerre Bassler · Answer

I would feel safe in waxing ASAP.  I do on my new vehicles.  I just usedthe clay bar for the first time and will never wax again without it.Fantastic results.  I also use Buffalo Milke spray wax.  Great on metal,trim. plastic, chrome, glass etc.  No white residue to clean.  I do mycar in less than 30 minutes.  I use Buffalo Milke as a detailer anytime.Great product.

Edward Hayes · Answer

What is a clay bar? Why is it used and how is it used? Where can you get aclay bar? eddie

null · Answer

How to use one at  clay bar is a 'clay' bar used to remove embedded contaniments in the clearcoat of yourvehicle. They are called 'clay bars', 'detailer's clay', and 'overspray clay'. The latter namebeing the original use for the clay. Paint shops used it to safely remove overspray without harsechemicals. Follow the link above for how to use a clay bar. I've bought several products from the peopleand they are all quality (Blackfire wax, microfiber towels, 'big blue' towel) I highly reccomend the bigblue towel, one towels dries the whole car.

Jerre Bassler · Answer

I use the brand Clay Magic which I got at Auto Zone.  I hooked up withBuffalo Milke and now sell it myself.

Richard Jones · Answer

I have detail shop do all my cleaning on my 04 forrester and theysuggest that you can wax it right away.  they also suggest re-waxingevery 6 to 12 months.

de la rosa · Answer

I know my dealer suggests I change oil at least every 3 months, regardless of mileage. and yes, he does make a tidy profit from changing oil for customers.

Hmm, Richard, I suggest you consider how that detail shop makes money and decide whether or not you can take their suggestion on this matter without taking that fact into consideration. I assume they wax vehicles, if requested, do they not?

When to wax?

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