Before applying paint protection to your car, you should know how long it will last to ensure it’s worthwhile. One type of paint protection is car wax. Many car waxes are on the market, all with different durability potentials.
However, there’s yet to be a definitive answer to how long car waxes last. Wax durability varies by manufacturer and the formula of the wax. For example, most natural carnauba waxes last between 2-4 months, while spray waxes last from 2 weeks to 4 weeks. On the other hand, synthetic waxes can last up to a year.
The longevity of car waxes depends on various factors. In this article, we’ll go through popular options and tell you how to get the most longevity of car wax.
How Long Do Car Waxes Last?
Usually, car waxes last anywhere between four weeks to four months. The critical factor for wax longevity is the wax type. There are two main types of car waxes; natural carnauba waxes and synthetic waxes.
Natural carnauba waxes last shorter, whereas synthetic waxes have better durability and last longer. Each wax type has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to research before settling on a wax.
Firstly, you will rarely find a 100% carnauba wax product; even if you do, it would be costly and not last very long. To make the wax as efficient as possible with a beautiful shine, manufacturers usually mix both natural and synthetic ingredients.
On the other hand, synthetic ingredients will increase the durability of the wax but will not provide the same shine as natural carnauba wax. In addition, there are various formulas of car wax, such as liquid, spray, and paste forms.
Spray wax is easy to apply but does not provide as much protection as a paste or liquid wax – which are the most durable. But don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of waxes to find which works best for your car.
What Factors Affect The Longevity of Car Waxes?
Other than the wax type, there are other essential factors you should keep in mind before you buy a new wax to protect your car’s paint job. The factors that impact car wax longevity are:
- Product Quality
- Washing Habits
- Driving Habits and Garage
- Climate
Below, we go through how each of these factors affects the longevity of your car wax.
1. Product Quality
Product quality is what affects the longevity of your car wax the most. It isn’t wise to expect top-notch results from the cheapest products on the market. That is why it is best to research before buying car wax.
Using a high-quality product can give your car excellent protection that lasts a long time. For example, some high-quality natural carnauba waxes can last up to 5 months, while synthetic ones can last up to a year. That’s excellent durability and saves you a great ton of time and cost on car wax reapplication.
2. Washing Habits
Even the greatest auto waxes will be removed from the paint by incorrect car washing. A good cleaning routine can make an old car look new, while a lacking routine can drastically impact your new car and make it look like it’s been through hell and back.
If you want to increase the longevity of your car wax, you should know the proper way to wash your car. Here are a few things to keep in mind while washing your car:
- Use a suitable wash soap, such as dish soap.
- Do not use a scorching hot war to wash your car.
- Refrain from taking your car to an automatic car wash with brushes that can quickly brush away your wax coating.
3. Driving Habits and Garage
Like everything else that has to do with a car, the lifespan of your car wax also depends on your driving habits. If you only occasionally take your car out for a drive, your wax will likely last longer. But if you drive your car frequently, your car wax may be affected.
In addition, when you’re not driving your car, the best option is to park it away in the shade, such as the weather, dust, and dirt. So, keeping your car in a garage will increase the longevity of your car wax. On the other hand, if you always leave your car outside, your car wax will last for a while.
4. Climate
Another factor that affects the lifetime of your car wax is the climate. Harsher climate conditions, such as snow, hot temperatures, pollution, sun, etc., will deteriorate your car’s wax. So if you always drive your car in bad weather, you can expect your car wax to last shorter.
With that said, it is impossible to avoid climatic conditions, but you can try to avoid driving over dirt and gravel.
