by Helen King

Everyone desires a car that is free of dust and stains, but taking care of cars is a rather difficult job. If your objective is to make your car look brand new or make it last longer or even fetch a good price when you resell it, then you will have to spend enough time and effort on maintaining it.

Too much use of the car can spoil its shiny look as a result of the car being bruised by scratches, making it appear old and unattractive, especially if the paint is also wearing off. Car wash, waxing, and car polishing are all essential parts of a good car maintenance programme to make your vehicle look like it is brand new.

The first stage is to remove all the grime on the car by cleaning it with shampoo and water, after which you have to apply either car wax or polish on the body. There is much confusion about car polishing and car waxing, and when they should be used. It is crucial that you, as the owner of the car, know precisely what type of maintenance and care your car requires.

Car wax is made from carnauba and other wax derivatives, which make the car glisten and shine. However, car waxes do not have abrasive compounds and so they cannot clean stains that are too deep. In addition, they are not capable of withstanding extreme heat.

However, car polishes contain materials like Teflon, which make them stay for a longer period on your car, providing it a fresh look that lasts forever. Also, polish is much more effective in case of marks and stains that are prominent.

When polishing the blend edges, work away from the edge. The most recommended process for a blend edge is to hand glaze instead of machine polish. When you hand glaze, use a smooth clean cloth.

Usually, car polish is the best solution in case you drive your car daily on routes that are dusty. Car wax gives your car a temporary gloss for some occasions, but it is not a very good protection on a daily basis. So you have to remember the model and build of the car and your everyday routine when you assess what your car needs, and then decide upon a product that makes the car appear new and also suitable for use for many more years.