Most vehicle owners focus on the mechanical aspects of their vehicles, such as the engine or transmissions. The outside of your car is just as important as the interior mechanical components. Car washes are essential, and after washing your vehicle, a wax should already be included in your regular maintenance routine. While it’s critical to keep your car clean, waxing your vehicle has lasting benefits that make it worth the extra few dollars. A good car wax is more than just shiny paint; below are a few reminders of the benefits to regularly waxing your car.
Wax Offers Protection Against Scratches
Wax has petroleum distillates, natural oils, and other ingredients that harden the wax on the paint. Dirt, grime, and drive-thru car washes can leave superficial scratches in the paint. Wax offers a clear coat on top of the paint that gives an additional layer of protection.
Prevents Sun Damage
Older vehicles that have been left in the sun may have faded paint spots. The sun’s UV rays are damaging, and the wax helps provide a shield that’s similar to sunscreen. With regular usage, wax can provide long-term protection from the sun.
Wax Masks Paint Imperfections
If your car has any outer layer clear coat paint damage, the wax can help hide the imperfections. The wax can’t make paint scratches disappear altogether, but it can fill shallow scratches and make them look glossed over.
A Longer Lasting Clean
After a good wax, you may notice that your car stays clean for an extended time. The wax provides a smooth, protective surface that makes dirt, water, and particles less likely to stick to the paint. It also makes dirt easier to rinse off if there is an accumulation.
It Helps the Resale Value
Vehicles that look aged with faded or chipped paint may cause it to lose its resale value. Keeping your vehicle waxed helps maintain the paint and prevent additional paint damage from occurring. Paint that is in good condition, free of marks and scratches, improves a car’s resale value.
Consistent waxes included in car washes are an essential part of extending your vehicle’s lifespan. Washes are just as important as regular maintenance services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and a/c recharges. If it’s time to service your vehicle, West Coast Tire & Service has ASE certified technicians available to help.