Remove a Very Streaky Wax Finish on a Car
Unfortunately, you will probably have to re-wax your car to get the lousy old wax job off.
Steps
- Wash your car. Use soap and water in a bucket and a soft rag, terry cloth will probably do it, but they sell some fancy ones at car parts stores. Clean your rag often by dipping it in the bucket and swishing it around, this removes dirt that you have collected and prevents your paint from being scratched.
- Polish your car. This will get the old wax (and any oxidation if it has been a while since your last wax job) You will need to buy a commercial car polish, one again available at your car parts store. There will be instructions on the back of the bottle. It is generally best to work small areas at a time. If you want to save some energy you can get an electric buffer/polisher, but this can cause ‘paint burn’ so your best bet is a dual-action polisher. Be sure you polish evenly because if you don’t even the best wax job won’t hide your blunders.
- Wax your car. This is what seals the paint and protects it from the elements. Now be very careful with this step because that’s why you are doing this in the first place. Once again you will need to buy a wax at the car parts store; try to get the same brand as the polish. Carefully read the instructions on the back. Apply the wax with a very soft rag if you don't like terry cloth. Use clean rags, you will probably go through a bunch so have a lot on hand. It is generally best to work in sections, and do this by hand the buffer is probably not necessary for this part. You may want to apply more than one coat.
- Follow up. Keep the car clean, what is the point of a waxed car if it is covered with dirt? Also, you may want to apply so in-between-wax-jobs car protectors every once in a while. These will be in the same section as all the other stuff you bought.
Tips
- This will take time, don't do it unless you have at least 4 hours to devote to it.
- Don't do this under direct sun, maybe wait for a slightly overcast day.
- Consider having a professional do it.
Things You'll Need
- A Car
- Lots of rags
- A Bucket and car wash solution
- Polish
- Wax
- Patience
