Does Car Washing and Waxing Damage the Car?
3 Answers
Car waxing does not damage the car. Here are the specific benefits of car waxing: 1. Waterproofing effect: Reduces watermarks, dark spots, rust, and damage on the paint surface. It also has an anti-aging effect, effectively protecting the paint from oxidation caused by UV rays, maintaining the paint's gloss, and extending the paint's lifespan. 2. Gloss enhancement: Improves the smoothness of the paint to varying degrees, making the car's color more vibrant. It also has an anti-static effect, reducing damage to the paint caused by friction with dust, wool fabrics, and synthetic fibers in the air. 3. Anti-corrosion effect: Effectively isolates the damage caused by acid rain and acid mist to the car's paint.
I've been sticking to regular car washing and waxing since I got my first car, and it's been over ten years now. Does it really damage the car? If done improperly, it certainly can. Once, I took a shortcut and used regular soap to wash my car, which resulted in yellowing and corrosion of the paint. The repair cost me quite a bit. Proper car washing requires using a dedicated neutral car wash solution and a soft sponge for gentle scrubbing. Avoid washing under direct sunlight to prevent water spots from damaging the paint. The same goes for waxing—choose high-quality wax, such as polymer-based types, apply it evenly, and polish with a clean cloth to avoid wax buildup in crevices that could lead to discoloration. In fact, consistent care can protect the car's paint from UV damage and water stains, extending its lifespan. The key is not to cut corners or use random products. I recommend starting with simple steps for DIY, maintaining a monthly frequency, and ensuring you have the right tools, like a car washer and soft brushes. It saves money, gives peace of mind, and enhances the car's shine.
I love tinkering with my car all day long. Washing and waxing it myself is more reliable than going to a car wash, but doing it wrong can definitely damage the car. For example, blasting the brake discs or wheel hubs with a high-pressure water jet can corrode parts or scratch the body; choosing the wrong type of hard wax can leave white residue that's hard to clean, especially since modern spray waxes are convenient but don’t last long, and repeated applications can wear down the paint. My advice: rinse off loose dirt with low-pressure water before washing to avoid sand and grit abrasion; make sure the car is completely dry before waxing, apply liquid wax gently with a single swipe, and don’t rush to save time. Regular maintenance can prevent acid rain corrosion and keep the car shiny, but don’t forget to check if your car wash soap and wax are eco-friendly to reduce chemical harm. I recommend adjusting the frequency based on the season—wash more often during the rainy season for protection—but the key is to experiment a few times to find what works best for you.
