What cleaning and protective products are most important for proper vehicle upkeep? Our Kenner, LA Lamarque Ford receives this question quite often. The answer: car wax. Why? What is car wax, and why is it important? Here's your quick rundown.
Aptly named, car wax is essentially wax that you apply to your car's exterior surface. It forms a sealing barrier that protects your car's paint job from dust, debris, salt, and extreme weather. Car wax comes from a variety of sources, both organic and synthetic. Organic versions include:
- Carnauba (from the plant of the same name)
- Palm wax
- Coal wax (hydrocarbons)
Inorganic forms of car wax include those made with silicones.
What Does Car Wax Contain?Since it's a hydrocarbon at room temperature, wax doesn't easily spread in its natural or untreated state. To make it more pliable, car wax makers add oils and solvents. The exact breakdown of additives varies between products. Like the main ingredient, the added oils and solvents contribute to its shine, car wax's hydrophobia, and its resistance to UV rays.