Waxing the exterior plastic

[Grandpa]

Detailed our NB for the first time today, didn't realize how much plastic the body is composed of-all 4 fenders and both bumpers....(about half of the car!). Anyhow, I've never had a car w/that much plastic, but have been waxing my other vehicles for a while, and like to use paste wax (almost any kind is OK w/me). Most, if not all, of the waxes I've used in the past say not to use it on plastic surfaces (they aren't specific w/whether or not the plastic is painted). Most of the vehicles I've had recently have plastic bumpers, and I don't wax those. I was wondering what you guys use, I went back into the detailing threads about two years and didn't see anything on it. From what I've read, it seems (assuming folks are waxing their entire NB) everyone is using whatever they may use on the metal parts of their car....anyone aware of a wax designed for use on the plastic parts? Will using my regular paste wax damage the plastic over time?.....she looks good, the previous owner took good care of her, but I would like to add some kind of protectant to the rest of the vehicle...















Thanks for any advice....BTW, we just bought this car, I'm really impressed so far.....

[Lnzbug]

Nice pics Grandpa Actually, I use the same wax all over my car. Zymrol. Very easy to use & has a great shine. I think what they mean by not using on plastic is mote the black trim parts. Painted plastic needs wax just like painted metal.
You might want to clay bar the car first. You'll be amazed at how much better it'll look
Welcome to the org!

[SMG]

Car paint is car paint. It all needs to be cared for the same way.

[scarabY2k]

I use Meguiars NXT car wax. Awesome stuff!

[lkchris]

You're not putting wax on plastic, you're putting it on paint.

[Grandpa]

Thanks all.

[Hammer]

Car wax

WHAT IS CAR WAX?

The car paint is highly susceptible to ultra violet rays, airborne contaminants, dust, acid rain and other contaminants in the environment. Thus these environmental factors will cause the paint to fade, corrode and rust, if left unprotected. Car wax is a natural, traditional and proven form of protection for the paint. Car wax also provides deep and healthy shine to the paint. Many companies manufacture car wax using cheap ingredients. Such waxes cannot withstand the environmental factors and hence cannot provide complete and long-term protection Make sure to buy a premium or high quality car wax to obtain long-lasting protection and shine for the paint.


TYPES OF CAR WAX

There are two major types of car wax

1)Natural wax

2)Synthetic wax

Natural wax is derived from a substance called carnauba that is obtained from a Brazilian plant called copernica cerifera. The carnauba wax is generally used along with petroleum distillates, naphtha and oil. The carnauba wax provides excellent shielding to the paint and generally lasts from 30 to 60 days. This naturally occuring carnauba wax is also used in the manufacture of floor wax, furniture wax and candy coatings.

Synthetic wax is commonly known as paint sealant. Paint sealent or synthetic wax provides long-term protection to the paint.The beautiful liquid shine and gloss provided by natural carnauba wax is not provided by paint sealant.However the longevity of natural wax is less when compared to the paint sealants as the melting point of the natural wax is easily reached during warm temperature.Natural carnauba wax is difficult to apply and remove when compared to paint sealants.


Therefore people who desire long-term protection has to use paint sealant rather than carnauba wax. However people who crave for deep shine and gloss can go for carnauba wax. It is advisable to use carnauba wax on top of synthetic wax to achieve best results.A combination of both the waxes can work wonder in your vehicles. While applying additional layer, make sure that the wax to be used does not contain cleaners.

FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED WHILE APPLYING WAX

Wax can be applied either by hand or a polisher.

1)Waxing should be done in a shaded area or inside the garage in order to avoid evaporation before application.

2)Make sure that the vehicle is completely dried before applying wax, as tiny droplets of water might also create problem during buffing phase. Microfiber towels can be used to dry the vehicle

2)Apply thin coats on top of each other instead of applying one heavy coat.This would result in better shine and good finish.

3)Use detail sprays to correct inconsistencies like smears and streaks.

4)Waxing should be done twice a year in order to avoid pre-mature deterioration.

The following are the factors to be considered while applying wax with polisher

1)First of all, be careful with the power cords, as unorganized cords can be very dangerous.

2)Use finishing pads to obtain even and smooth finish

3)Always keep in mind that waxes need ample time to cure

Thus waxing is imperative to protect and maintain the car paint.