Any car lover can tell you that getting your car detailed is the key to keeping it looking great all year long. What many people can’t tell you is what each car detailing service really means. Two of the services that often get confused for each other are waxing and polishing. And while most of us have gotten one or both of these services in the past, how many can actually say they know the difference between the two?
If you’re not sure either, you’re not alone. Though both waxing and polishing are equally important in a car’s maintenance, we’re going to discuss the difference between them sothat you can better choose the right service for your vehicle’s needs. Keep reading to learn the difference, as well as tips for selecting the right services at your next wash.
What’s the Difference Between Polishing and Waxing a Car?
Car Wax
Car wax is a protective coating that’s applied on top of your car’s paint to protect it from everyday elements. It’s made from a blend of natural waxes and synthetic polymers, which are designed to bond with the surface of your car to create a protective barrier.
There are many benefits of getting your car waxed. People often get it done for one or more of the following reasons:
- Prevents scratches
- Protects the car from contaminants
- Adds shine to your car
- Prevents water spots
- Makes washing your car easier
- Increases resale value
Car wax is strong and durable, with a thick and shiny coat that keeps your paint extra protected. It gets bonus points for adding shine to your car, making it look like new again. Check out our previous article to learn a bit more about the benefits of waxing your car.
Car Polish
Polishing your car is a service that’s used to restore the appearance and smoothness of your car’s paint. It’s typically done after washing and before waxing, as it helps to remove small scratches and imperfections from the surface of the paint.
Common reasons a person chooses to get their car polished include:
- Removes scratches or defects
- Adds gloss or shine to the paint
- Restores faded paint
- Keeps the car cleaner for longer
- Protects against sun damage
- Covers paint defects
- Improves resale value
While a polishing job does help protect the car, its main purpose is to restore its appearance. That’s why many people get their cars polished before getting them waxed. This guarantees both appearance and protection.
Key Differences between Car Polish and Wax
- Car polish is used to remove scratches, swirls, and imperfections from the paint’s surface, while car wax is used to protect the paint and give it a shiny finish.
- Car polish contains abrasives that remove a thin layer of the paint’s surface, while car wax does not contain any abrasives.
- Car polish is used before car wax, and car wax is used after car polish.
Car Polish vs. Wax: Which One Do I Need?
If you’re still a little unsure about which service you need, here are some clear guidelines to consider.
When to Wax Your Car
Car wax should be used when the car’s paint needs protection from environmental factors. Remember that a large part of maintaining your car is taking preventative measures. By adding a protective layer, you’re preventing possible damage to the paint in the future, making it a great investment.
When to Polish Your Car
Car polish should be used when there are visible scratches, swirls, or other imperfections on the paint’s surface. Polishing your car is done to improve its appearance, so if you need to remove small damages to the top coat of your paint or restore your car’s overall look, then this is probably the right option for you.
Book a Dallas Mobile Wash with Rinzer
Now that you know the difference between polishing and waxing a car, you can better understand what your car needs. And if you want the best results, get these two services at the same time to improve both the protection and appearance of your car.
At Rinzer, we have four wash plans that you can choose from. Check out our different plans here to see which services best serve you and your vehicle. Once you choose a plan, let us know when and where you want your wash, and we’ll come to you!
