All automobiles require maintenance from time to time, but many individuals don't realize the importance of waxing. By waxing your car, you can not only improve it aesthetically but you can help protect it from the elements. Furthermore, by doing it yourself you can avoid some of those expensive detailing costs.

The first and foremost factor when preparing to wax a car is the weather. It's pretty obvious that you can't wax a car in the rain, but many don't realize the best time to wax a car is during a cool, preferably cloudy day. The reason for this is simple. If it is too hot (above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, or 24 degrees Celsius) the wax will remain too warm to harden. If you try to wax a car on a cold day, the wax will become too hard, making it difficult to remove.

Before you attempt to wax a car, it is very important to wash off all of the dirt. If there is dirt on the car when the wax is applied or removed, it will leave ugly streaks and damage the paint. Wash the car thoroughly and several times if necessary. After washing, use a micro fiber cloth, or any cloth that won't leave lint on the paint, to dry the car. Drying the car properly will prevent water spots.

Some people will recommend that a polish be applied before waxing. Do this only if the paint is extremely worn, since automotive polish is an abrasive and will wear down the paint if used too often. A professional can tell you that a clay bar will work just as well. The clay will remove dirt, impurities, and even hardened tar from porous paint without damage.

The next step to take when you wax a car is applying the wax. Again, use a towel or commercial applicator that will not leave lint on the paint. If you drop the applicator, get a new one to avoid spreading dirt in with the wax.

Apply the wax in a circular motion to one panel at a time, working from top to bottom. Then, apply the wax to another panel in the same manner. Once you have finished applying the wax to the second panel, the first panel should be dry and ready for removal. Avoid getting wax on plastic or trim because it will leave an ugly white stain.

A hand-held buffer is a common tool used to remove wax, but since buffers can be difficult to keep clean, use a soft towel or washcloth instead. Remove the wax with slow, circular motions. When finished, use another towel to buff the car, which will remove any leftover wax residue.