With all the problems associated with the application and removal of car wax, are the new acrylic conditioners the way to go? I have been told by several in the automotive detail business that old fashion wax is too outdated for today's new acrylic finishes.
Definitely, Wax is a relic of past times when paint was softer and thicker. Soft paint needed polishing and wax. Todays hard acrylic paints and clear coats have a built in factory shine that you want to protect. Covering and dulling it with wax is not whats best to showcase the paints factory finish. Some guys say they have been detailing cars for 30 years. So you should take their advice and use wax.
Things have changed a lot in thirty years and automotive paint is one of them. Today people opt for spray wax. They are safe because they are not true wax and contain no abrasives. They are quick non abrasive and work best for acrylic paint. The spray on wax gives a fast temporary shine but offer little protection. The very best thing for paint is an acrylic paint conditioner. They offer the benefits of a spray wax but contains no wax. It last longer than wax but it does not have the problems you get with wax, swirl marks, discoloration, buildup and eventual removal of the factory finish. An acrylic paint conditioner is self leveling meaning it does not need to be buffed in and a rust inhibitor. It will condition the paint and preserve the factory finish not dull and cover it.
Cars now have a two part paint system. the first coat is the color coat and the second to the top coat made of clean urethane. Nothing really has to be done to the paint except wash it. Some folks will wax it but any liquid wax will do the job. Dish washing soap is not recommended because it will streak and leave a residue. It will not cause the clear coat to peel. Peeling clear coat is caused my other problems unrelated to soap. The color coat and the urethane is chemically bond by what is referred to as cross linking.
if you have a newer car say 1998 and new don't use the wipe on wax. Try to find a good car wash and wax in one bottle. If you can find one with carnobia wax in wash it will work the best clear coat will usually say good for a long time if treated right. don't use dish washing soap to wash your car it will fade the clear coat and in some cases pull it off.
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