Understanding Paint Chips and Their Causes

Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand what causes the damage to your car’s finish.  Often, it’s caused by small rocks, debris, or minor bumps that strip away the paint, revealing the metal beneath.  Additionally, environmental factors like extreme weather conditions, sunlight, and corrosion from salt can worsen the issue. Knowing these causes helps you take preventive steps and choose the most effective repair method.

Auto Detailing Products

Investing in quality Auto Detailing Products and services can work wonders for preserving your vehicle’s appearance. This also prevents color damage. Look for high-grade waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings that offer additional protection against wear and tear.  However, if your car’s paint has deep scratches or dents, it’s normally best to opt for professional services from an auto body shop. With the help of experts, you will get a glossy finish with improved aesthetics. This also reduces the cost of maintenance and extends the lifespan of your vehicle’s exterior color.  Keeping your vehicle in good condition increases its value.

Choosing the Right Touch-Up Services

For minor imperfections, turning to professional touch-up services can make a significant difference. These experts use color-matching technology to find the perfect paint match for your car. This ensures that the repair blends seamlessly with the surrounding area. This method is especially effective for small blemishes, making them virtually invisible.

Protective Film Layers

Installing a clear protective film can provide long-lasting protection against various types of damage. These films are designed to absorb and deflect damaging elements when applied to high-prone areas like the front bumper, hood, and side mirrors.  In addition, it also keeps your exterior shiny as brand new. The transparent, nearly invisible finish ensures your car’s aesthetic is not compromised while its exterior remains protected from harm.

High-Tech Scanning in Dent Detection

You can opt for cutting-edge scanning technology that is revolutionizing how dents are detected and assessed. Experts achieve flawless results from Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) to innovative bonding and reshaping methods while preserving its original paint.  This approach allows for thorough assessment and precise repairs, ensuring that even minor imperfections are addressed effectively.

Expert Techniques for Scratch Removal – Polishing and Sanding

Professionals employ various techniques for scratch removal, including polishing, wet sanding, compound filling, touch-up paint, and clear coat repair. Polishing gently buffs out light scratches, while wet sanding levels deeper scratches with fine-grit sandpaper and water.  This touch-up coat is used for deep scratches, while clear coat repair restores damaged areas.  These methods require proper maintenance to prevent future damage.  For more extensive or deep scratches, you need professional assistance.

Preventing Future Paint Chips

Prevention is always better than cure. Protective measures can greatly reduce the risk of damage. Consider applying a clear paint protection film, especially on high-impact areas like the hood and bumper. This provides protection against scratches and chips.  Additionally, regular waxing can also provide a protective layer, making your car’s exterior more resilient against minor harm.

Regular Professional Maintenance

Regular professional maintenance is essential for preserving your car’s exterior. Scheduled detailing sessions conducted by experts maintain their appearance and enable early detection and correction of any new imperfections. This proactive approach ensures your vehicle always sports a glossy, impeccable finish.

By entrusting your vehicle to professionals regularly, you can extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains a source of pride for years to come. So, prioritize regular professional maintenance and your vehicle will look and feel (almost) brand new for years to come.

The Final Thoughts

Maintaining the exterior of your car and keeping it free from paint chips, dents, and scratches requires a combination of the right techniques and products. By following the right tips and contacting a professional when necessary, you can preserve your car’s beauty and integrity. Remember, the key to a dazzling car exterior lies in addressing current imperfections and preventing future ones.

Until next time…

-John

The post Fed Up with Paint Chips on Your Car? Here’s How to Eliminate Them! appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Hi there! I’m Matt and I’m here to help you find the best car wax and and paint sealer wax for your vehicle. Whether you drive a white car, black car, or red car, there is a wax for you! My buddies and I wrote this guide in hopes to shed some light on the exterior of cars and trucks. Usually we like talking about Android OBD2 scanners and other engine diagnostic tools, but today it’s time to mix it up.

Want to skip the reading? Here’s the products!

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Meguiar's Complete Car Care Kit - The Ultimate Car...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
2		CAR GUYS Liquid Wax | Superior Carnauba Shine with...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
3		Meguiar's G17516 Ultimate Quik Wax, 15.2 Fluid...	No ratings yet	$27.30	Buy on Amazon
4		Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...	No ratings yet	$43.54	Buy on Amazon

Full list of the best synthetic and natural car waxes available

1. Meguiar’s all-in-one

Meguiar's Complete Car Care Kit - The Ultimate Car...

• COMPLETE HOME CAR WASH KIT: Our car wash cleaning kit includes 12 premium car cleaning products and car wash accessories that wash, shine, and protect your paint, interior, wheels, tires, bumpers, and...
• GOLD CLASS CAR WASH SHAMPOO: Designed to blast away dirt and grime while boosting your car’s shine, Gold Class Car Wash Foam keeps your car paint cleaner by both washing and conditioning with an...
• GOLD CLASS CARNAUBA PLUS LIQUID WAX: No car detailing kit would be complete without an easy way to keep your paint protected. Gold class carnauba plus liquid wax uses a polymer-enhanced formula to...

Buy on Amazon

Waxing your car involves more than the liquid you pour on. A dynamic process requires various products and the correct tools, and Meguiar’s provides vehicle owners a starting kit so you have all you need with one purchase.

This excellent initiative means you get all the following in one go:

All these amazing cleaning products can be applied and used with the following items also included:

• Microfiber wash mitt
• Microfiber towel
• Foam applicator

Pros

Cons

Summary

Mike just finished with a hands-on review on the Meguiar’s all-in-one and had excellent results. Read more about it here: Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit Review

Meguiar’s offers vehicle owners a complete solution for any car wash challenges. If you’re just starting to collect products to look after your car, this is an excellent starting kit.

2. Liquid Glass LG-100

2023 update – Looks like this stuff is sold out! If you can find any, buy two. For now, skip this one till we can find a replacement 🙂

The Liquid glass is designed as a polisher and finisher to really bring out the shine from your wax and protect paint. This car polish has a very apt name, because if you apply this to your vehicle’s exterior, it will form a protective layer that shines and protects. Our friends rave about the gloss it adds to vehicles, and its application is straightforward. If you’re looking for a wax for luxury cars (Benz, Mercedes, BMW, Tesla etc) this is a great choice!

Pros

Cons

Summary

If you’re looking for an excellent polish, you’ve found it; LG-100 is an effortless answer to make your vehicle look stunning.

3. The Car Guys 

CAR GUYS Liquid Wax | Superior Carnauba Shine with...

Buy on Amazon

Up next is another sweet car and motorcycle waxing kit. This is the perfect entry-level waxing kit for the value. The Car Guys stand behind this wax and offer a money-back refund if you’re not happy with it.

We’ve tested out this wax on a black 2014 Chevy Camaro and the results were astounding! You’ll swear that your car shines better than it did the day you bought it.

This product gives you everything you need to give your vehicle a high-shine polish. The polish, as well as the applicators are included, and they’re designed to work well together. You’ll love how your vehicle looks after you used this Car Guys’ product.

Pros

Cons

Summary

Quality comes at a price. This product has many loyal supporters, because it effortlessly brings the best out of your vehicle’s paint. If you’re serious about the gloss you want on your car, this wax may be worth the expense.

4. Meguiar’s G17516

Meguiar's G17516 Ultimate Quik Wax, 15.2 Fluid...

• Fastest way to a dazzling, show-car shine!
• Makes paint come alive with a deep, wet-look shine you would only expect from liquid or paste waxes
• New technology leaves no white residue on plastic and trim, and it can even be applied in direct sunlight!

$27.30

Buy on Amazon

This wax differs from the rest in that it is a simple spray on paint protector that is best used between full wax sessions. It’s designed to restore that “show room shimmer” to your hot rod with a quick spray before you head out on Friday night to cruise.

Meguiar’s is a company that knows exactly what vehicle owners need. This manufacturer repeatedly produces products that vehicle owners simply adore. This is another one in their excellent range. If you’re weary of waxes that may leave residues, you can lay your fears to rest. This may be what you’ve been looking for the whole time.

Pros

Cons

5. Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate

Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...

• ONE EASY STEP: Formula delivers maximum synthetic protection, durability, depth of color, and reflectivity in this easy one step
• EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Thin Film technology provides for easy application and wipe off even in full sun, and will not stain non-painted trim pieces white
• LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Advanced synthetic polymers crosslink to form a long-lasting protective barrier while amplifying reflection for incredible depth and mirror-like shine

$43.54

Buy on Amazon

If you’ve already got the microfiber applicator pads, shine cloths and just need some good wax, check out the Meguiar’s G18216. This is not so much a wax (like carnauba) but it’s actually a synthetic sealant. The biggest difference between wax and synthetic sealants is the shine and the protection. You’ll get a better shine with wax, but you’ll see better paint protection with the sealant (like Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax).

Pros

Cons

Summary

This is an excellent car wax product, which lasts long. It uses state-of-the-art technology to bring the best out of a car’s exterior.

Wanna know more about this wax? Read our Meguiar’s Ultimate Wax Review!

Best microfiber wax applicator: Viking 862400

Viking 862400 Blue Microfiber Wax Applicator,...

• 5" in diameter
• Evenly distributes waxes, polish, protectants, and dressings
• Perfect for interior and exterior

Buy on Amazon

You won’t get anywhere with a great wax product if you don’t have the correct tools to apply it to your vehicle. Applicators are vital to the process, as well as the safety of your car’s varnish. Using the wrong type of applicator can result in scratches or damaging the paint. Do you have these in your toolbox so you can use your chosen wax to its best potential? This brand has been around for 100 years, so its products are sure to impress.

Pros

Cons

Verdict

With advances in technology, it’s supposed to be quicker and easier to clean and shine your vehicle. Trust Meguiar’s to help you in this process, because its products are exceptional. The G18216 liquid wax is your best option listed here. It’s more durable than the Quik Wax of the same manufacturer, but it’s still effortless to apply. This kit also supplies all the tools you need, so it’s the quickest answer in every aspect.

How to: Choose the best car wax (or truck wax)

Who’s this guide for? 

We wanted to make a simple list of the top waxes that you can buy today. If you’ve ever asked, “what’s the best wax for a black car?” or “should I use carnauba wax or synthetic wax” then keep on reading!

Whether you’re a seasoned car show professional, or you just want to keep your new 2016 Dodge Cummins crew cab looking spiffy, this guide will help you. So let’s jump into it.

Recommended: https://scanneranswers.com/best-oil-drain-pans-that-dont-suck/

How to choose and apply vehicle wax

Yeah that’s right, vehicle wax is much different than candle wax! Below is a great video from Meguiar’s that gives a brief how to wax your car

Why should I invest in paint sealant and wax?

So you’ve already picked up a good OBDII scanner, chosen the best radar detector, and now you want to make sure your red Z06 Corvette can keep looking good it’s whole life? Well you’re going to need some wax!

Looking after your vehicle plays as much a role in its performance as the quality of the engine, interior and exterior. Without the correct maintenance products, your car will quickly lose its luster.

This fact is most applicable to the exterior of the car. Daily use, the constant impact of the weather and damaging particles in the air can damage paint and cause your vehicle to lose its shine. Luckily, there are many ways to combat this, and new technology improves these processes all the time.

This review guide mentions some of the best car wax products on the market. Using them will help you keep your vehicle’s exterior in excellent condition. Let’s discuss what you should be looking for when you consider purchasing car care products.

What you need to protect your paint against wear…

Your vehicle is a huge investment. There are many dangers on the road that may be out of your control, but certain matters you can manage. The exterior of a vehicle determines a large part of its value. By keeping your vehicle’s varnish in excellent condition, you maintain some of its value. Protect this asset by guarding your vehicle against the following factors:

• Small scratch marks
• The effect of rainwater
• The sun’s UV rays

You’ll also feel at your best when driving a shiny car, rather than one with dull paint and the signs of aging.

What you can do to take care of your car

Your car needs regular washing to have it look clean. Additional car care products add a whole different dimension to the washing process. You may have to add some time and effort to your car’s wash sessions, but the effect is well worth it.

Last Thoughts

So there you have it! Wow that felt like a long post 🙂 If you have any questions or feel like we missed your favorite car wax, leave a comment below or get in contact with us.

Check out: https://scanneranswers.com/best-octane-booster-and-fuel-additives/

Matt

The post What is the Best Car Wax and Paint Sealers for the Value? appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Best Tire Shines and Dressing Gels and Sprays

Here’s a quick question: what is the single most important factor that will make your car truly stand out? If you answered a clean and shiny paint job, then you’re wrong. That’s why today we’re talking about the best tire shines to keep your black tires shiny and fresh looking!

Comparison Table

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Chemical Guys VRP Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic...	No ratings yet	$23.00	Buy on Amazon
2		CAR GUYS Tire Shine Spray | The Perfect Shine |...	No ratings yet	$19.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Meguiar's G7516 Endurance Tire Gel, Premium Tire...	No ratings yet	$13.99	Buy on Amazon
4		Trinova 33511 Tire Shine Spray No Wipe -...	No ratings yet	$18.99	Buy on Amazon

Sure, a pristine paint job is all well and good when it comes to looks. But have you ever thought about tire blooming? You know, those ugly and brown stains on your Michelin tires? Even if you’ve just finished waxing your car, if those tires aren’t black and shiny, they will grab everyone’s attention!

It doesn’t matter if your vehicle is squeaky clean. If your tires aren’t ‘black’ enough, then this will affect the overall look of your vehicle. This holds true if you’re rocking a nice set of rims. Tires devoid of brownish stains on the sidewall will make your car look better.

In order to get rid of tire blooming, you need to use the best tire shines or tire dressings. While I was on vacation in a small part of South East Asia, I found out that tire dressings are also called ‘tire black’, and it does make a lot of sense.

Recommended Reading: https://scanneranswers.com/best-synthetic-motor-oil-comparison-chart/

Tire black has the consistency of molasses. Other formulas are a bit watery, while others come in a handy spray. However, the consistency doesn’t matter because they all do the same job. They give your tires a shiny, glossy, and blacker appearance. They also protect the tires from harmful ozone rays and they also keep the tires cleaner for a longer period of time.

If your tires are not cleaned or washed regularly, then tire blooming will certainly manifest itself faster than you can say ‘Dear Lord!’ But here’s the bewildering truth: tire blooming is not caused by dirt, dust, and mud alone!

Four of the Best Tire Shines to Stop the Onset of Tire Blooming

Listed here are some of the best tire shine products that I have personally used in my vehicles.

1. ChemicalGuys VRP

Chemical Guys VRP Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic...

• ULTIMATE SHINE & PROTECTION FOR TRIM & TIRES – VRP restores faded vinyl, rubber, and plastic to a deep black finish while adding a protective layer against extreme heat, sun exposure, and harsh...
• RESTORES FADED TRIM & PREVENTS CRACKING – Vinyl, rubber, and plastic surfaces dry out and fade over time; VRP conditions & protects, helping prevent cracking, peeling, and premature aging while...
• NON-GREASY, WATER-BASED FORMULA FOR A CLEAN FINISH – Achieve a deep, wet look without a greasy feel This premium water-based dressing enhances shine on interior & exterior trim, plastic, rubber, and...

$23.00

Buy on Amazon

What I really like about the Chemical Guys Super Shine Dressing is that you can use it on both interior and exterior surfaces. This product feels dry to the touch but it leaves behind a smooth and glossy shine. The formula is designed to resist dirt and water while providing lasting protection against oxidation.

You can use the Chemical Guys Super Shine Dressing in all types of rubber, leather, and plastic components. This product will not only protect your tires and prevent tire blooming, but it will also shield your dashboard, fenders, trim pieces, and plastic bumpers from the harmful effects of oxidation. This product is not intended for use on painted plastic or rubber components.

Pros

• Water-based formula is dry to the touch
• Creamy consistency makes it easy to apply
• Nourishes leather, plastic, and rubber surfaces

Cons

• Wears out easily when used on exterior surfaces

2. CarGuys Applicator Kit

CAR GUYS Tire Shine Spray | The Perfect Shine |...

• VERSATILE & EASY TO USE: Achieve your desired tire shine with CAR GUYS Tire Shine Spray! Whether you prefer a glossy, wet look or a smooth satin finish, our formula gives you complete control for the...
• LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Our tire dressing hydrates and protects your tires from UV rays that cause fading, cracking, and browning. With just one coat, you’ll enjoy a durable, long-lasting shine....
• NON-GREASY FORMULA: CAR GUYS Tire Shine Spray is designed for ultimate convenience. It dries quickly, leaving your tires looking glossy without the oily mess. Perfect for those who want a clean,...

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

The CarGuys Tire Shine Spray is formulated with polymer additives to achieve a lasting and durable shine.

What I like about this product is the spray application.

Simply spray a small amount of this tire shine to an applicator pad and wipe on. This kit even includes a tire applicator pad. It’s makes less of a mess than other tire dressing gels I’ve used.

You can also use this product on dull and faded plastic, vinyl, or rubber trim. The formula is non-toxic and environmentally friendly as well. The CarGuys Tire Shine Spray is also ideal for both interior and exterior use. Take note that the included tire applicator pad is good for your tires only. If you want to use this on your dash, you will need a separate microfiber applicator pad.

The thing I noticed about this product is that you need to let it dry on your tires before setting off. If you don’t, then this product will sling. But if you leave it to dry before driving your car, then you can expect a lasting and durable shine that won’t fade away even if you spray the tires with water.

Pros

• Polymer-based formula makes it easy to apply
• Lasting shine (provided that you let the product dry)

Cons

• The product is a bit greasy to the touch

3. Meguiar’s Endurance

Meguiar's G7516 Endurance Tire Gel, Premium Tire...

• PROTECTS AND SHINES TIRES: One 16 oz bottle of Meguiar's Endurance Tire Gel and tire dressing with advanced macropolymers and copolymers that endure through washing and rain for a high-gloss car tire...
• RICH GEL FORMULA: Gel eliminates runs, drips and overspray for an even, consistent shine
• UV PROTECTANT: Meguiar's car tire shine protects tires against UV damage and browning to keep them looking like new

$13.99

Buy on Amazon

In the world of automotive detailing products, Meguiar’s is one of the best. I personally prefer their waxes and polishes over other products simply because they work brilliantly.

I am proud to say that the Meguiar’s Endurance Tire Gel is one of the best tire shines that I have used in a while, and it costs less than other tire dressings too!

There’s one caveat, though. You need to use this product sparingly, and you need to let it dry on the tires before driving. A little gel goes a long ways!

The Meguair’s Endurance Tire Gel is a polymer-based product that is designed to give a long lasting and durable shine that will last for a week. Of course, this will all depend on how you drive your vehicle and the prevailing weather conditions, but the product works as advertised. The rich gel formula prevents runs, drips, and product over-spray.

Pros

• Lasting shine and performance
• Gel formula is easy to apply
• Economical to use
• Great price

Cons

• Leaves a greasy residue when not used sparingly

4. TriNova

Trinova 33511 Tire Shine Spray No Wipe -...

• GIVE YOUR TIRES A SLICK FINISH – TriNova’s Tire Shine Spray is the easiest way to give your tires the dark and shiny look you want. Say goodbye to those faded and dusty tires
• ADVANCED COATING & PROTECTION – Not only will this spray give your tires the shine you’re looking for, it’ll also protect them from other deteriorating signs of aging. With just a single coating...
• REPELS DIRT & GRIME – TriNova’s Tire Shine Spray also offers additional protection against outside elements that can ruin your car’s appearance and also damage your tires along the way. With...

$18.99

Buy on Amazon

I must admit that I only used the TriNova Tire Shine Spray for a short period of time. I used this product on my Chevy SUV, and it did restore the tires to a like-new appearance. But when I sold my truck to my cousin who lives in Arizona, I totally forgot about this tire shine which was tucked neatly in the rear compartment.

The TriNova Tire Shine Spray is unique because it will allow you to achieve a degree of shine depending on how long you let the product saturate on your tires. Spray a thick coat and let it air dry for a high gloss finish. If you want a satin-like finish with a medium gloss, spray it on and wipe off the excess with a cloth.

This is a very popular spray and all our friends that use it swear it’s their go-to tire dressing spray. I might have to pick up another bottle 🙂

Perhaps my only gripe with the TriNova Tire Shine Spray is that it costs more than the usual tire dressings in the market. But in terms of shine and lasting performance, it is one of the best tire shines that money can buy.

Pros

• Easy to apply
• Leaves a lasting high-gloss shine
• Wipe off the excess to achieve a satin-like finish

Cons

• It’s a bit expensive
• The shine fades easily when exposed to hard rain

What is Tire Blooming?

Tire blooming occurs as a result of oxidation. If you see brown stains on the tire sidewall, then those are the remains of oxidized anti-ozonant.

Anti-ozonant is an organic compound. It is an additive most widely used in tire manufacturing. Ani-ozonant is also used in other plastic and rubber components. The main purpose of anti-ozonant is to prevent the degradation of rubber and plastic materials. Based on the name itself, anti-ozonant will protect the material from ozone rays. This organic compound will delay the onset of wear and prevents the rubber from becoming dry and brittle even when repeatedly exposed to extreme sources of heat.

Tires are designed to retain a level of anti-ozonant. When the compound is pushed nearer to the surface of the sidewall as the tires wear out, the anti-ozonant will be constantly exposed to air, moisture, and ozone. As the anti-ozonant oxidizes, the result is an ugly brown stain that sticks to the tire sidewall. This is what you call tire blooming.

But it doesn’t stop there. Tire manufacturers also mix a non-stick type of chemical to the formula. This chemical is similar to Teflon and prevents the tires from sticking to the molds. This chemical will bond to the tire and will seal the anti-ozonant to the surface of the tire. As you probably know by now, when the anti-ozonant oxidizes, then you say hello to the effects of tire blooming.

Will Tire Dressings and Shines Cause Tire Blooming?

No. This is a myth that needs to be debunked. You’ve probably heard about certain formulas of tire shine or tire dressings that will actually contribute to the onset of tire blooming. But in my many years of maintaining and detailing a wide array of vehicles, I can honestly say that tire blooming is actually caused by NOT using tire dressings after cleaning the tires.

Think about it for a minute. If you clean your tires using Dawn dish soap (which is actually a pretty effective way of removing dirt, mud, and brake dust from wheels and tires) or detergent, then you are ultimately drying out the surface of the tire. If you don’t put tire shine on a freshly cleaned tire, then you are basically leaving the tires more vulnerable to oxidation, which will cause drying, cracking, peeling, and a stained sidewall. Dish soap is designed to strip off wax, grease, or any type of oil-based lubricant. This is the reason why you should NEVER use dish soap on the painted surface of your ride unless you are planning to apply wax or polish after cleaning the car.

There are 2 main types of tire dressing, tire shine, or tire black:

1. water-based
2. silicone-based

It was previously believed that water-based tire dressings are the preferred choice since silicone will tend to accelerate the oxidation process. Wrong.

Based on my experience, tire blooming is inevitable whether you regularly clean your tires or not. Dirty and muddy tires will not cause tire blooming, and the same holds true for silicone-based tire shines.

The single and most effective way of eliminating and preventing tire blooming is to coat your tires with tire dressings or tire shine each and every time you clean the tires with water and soap.

How Do I Remove Tire Blooming on my Tires?

If you see a lot of tire blooming on your tires, there is no need to panic. All you need to do is to clean and brush the tires thoroughly with soap and water and apply a thin coat of tire dressing or tire gel to the sidewall.

Like I previously mentioned above, dish soap is a cost-effective way to remove the brownish stains on your tires. The trick is to avoid saturating the tires with dish soap. Simply use a sponge to apply soapy water to the tire, use a soft tire brush and scrub the tire thoroughly, and rinse off the soap immediately. Clean one tire at a time. Let it dry and apply a coat of tire gel or tire dressing and you’re all done!

How to Clean your browning and dirty tires (Youtube Video)

Conclusion

Choosing the best tire shine need not be complicated. All the products I tested performed admirably and they were all easy to apply. But there is one product that stood out, and it’s not mainly because of the low price.

If it were my money, I would choose the Meguair’s Endurance Tire Gel. For the price and longevity of the shine, it’s hard to beat. But the downside is that you can’t use it on interior trim. But since this test is about reviewing the best tire shines (and not the best plastic and rubber protectant), then the Meguiar’s Endurance Tire Gel is my top choice.

Hey check out this sweet article: https://scanneranswers.com/best-rated-car-batteries-for-long-lasting-performance/

-Mike

The post The Best Tire Shines that will Stop Tire Blooming or Brown Tires appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

The Best Spray Wax for Cars and Trucks

Comparison Table:

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Turtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax, Ultimate High...	No ratings yet	$12.99	Buy on Amazon
2		CAR GUYS Hybrid Spray Wax | Advanced Car Wax |...	No ratings yet	$19.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Meguiar's G7716 Gold Class Carnauba Quik Wax,...	No ratings yet	$9.54	Buy on Amazon
4		Mothers California Gold 3 Clay Bar Complete Kit, 3...	No ratings yet	$23.88	Buy on Amazon
5		Griot's Garage Spray-On Car Wash for Vehicle...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
6		Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select...	No ratings yet	$19.97	Buy on Amazon

I’m Mike, and before I begin discussing the best spray wax for cars, I want to be totally honest with you. I have a confession to make…

…I am personally not a big fan of spray waxes. There, I said it out loud for the whole world to know. But before you begin saying that this is a bit counter-intuitive (writing about the best spray wax and not liking it much), kindly allow me to delve a bit more into this matter at hand.

I have nothing against spray waxes. Hell, I actually like the fact that they are easy to use. Simply spray them on, and wipe off. It’s practically a no-brainer.

But I’m a serious car enthusiast, and I’m a stickler when it comes to my vehicle paint finish. Based on my many years of cleaning and detailing all sorts of cars, the thing that I don’t like most about spray waxes is the performance. It just doesn’t look as nice as a true wax and polish.

Now, I’ll be fair here and say that I’m warming up to spray waxes… What I’ve found is that using them after car washes and between true wax/polishing, they certainly extend the vibrant shine of my paint.

So if you’re planning to pick up a can of this stuff and have it be your only exterior detailing product, think again! Spray wax isn’t a substitute for waxing your ride, but it helps make the carnuaba wax/polish last longer!

And let’s be real here, waxing a car is not that difficult! Check out our guide that breaks it down: How to wax a car

Introducing the Best Spray Wax Products

Quick Look:

1. Turtle ICE

Turtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax, Ultimate High...

• Provides Durable Wax Coating - Long lasting, incredible protection, repelling water, dirt and road contaminants, keeping vehicle exterior surfaces cleaner longer with UV inhibitors to keep paint...
• Creates a Deep Mirror-Like Shine - Features a unique blend of carnauba wax and silicone polymers to deliver a brilliant, streak-free glossy finish
• Wax or Topper - Flexible formula can be used as a standard spray wax or layered on top of existing ceramic and/ or hydrophobic coatings

$12.99

Buy on Amazon

One thing that makes the Turtle Wax ICE Spray Wax stand out is that you can use this product on paint, exterior plastic surfaces, and rubber trim. You can even use this to clean automotive glass without using a separate glass cleaner.

The Turtle Wax ICE Spray Wax is formulated with Smart Shield Technology that builds a layer of shine and protection with each application. This product utilizes advanced polymers to provide all-weather protection and shine. It will also fill in minor surface imperfections like mild scratches and swirl marks for a flawless finish.

Did I mention this is some cheap spray wax? That’s right, if you’re looking to save money, this stuff is a great deal!

With that being said, it is best to use this spray wax along with the entire Turtle Wax ICE collection to achieve the best possible results. Turtle Wax recommends using this product after every wash, and that’s fine by me.

Pros

Cons

Update: We finally got our butts in gear and wrote a more in-depth review on this kit. You can read more about it here if you want to: Turtle Wax ICE Review

Scott over at Dallas Paint Correction even likes this wax. Check out his professional review below

2. Car Guys Hybrid Wax Sealant

CAR GUYS Hybrid Spray Wax | Advanced Car Wax |...

• FORMULATED WITH ADVANCED SCIENCE! – Are you tired of using products that look great, but don’t last? You won’t experience that here! This magic in a bottle produces a deep shine, slick surface,...
• SPOTLESS FINISH AND SAFE ON ANY SURFACE! – This product is super quick and easy to use, but it's also safe to apply onto EVERY SURFACE on ANY vehicle. Whether you have a car, truck, motorcycle, rv,...
• BRILLIANT SHOW CAR SHINE! – Most products nowadays will make your car look pretty good. Hybrid Wax brings the gloss and reflections up another level! This long lasting formula works at the molecular...

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

The Car Guys Hybrid Wax Sealant utilizes a combination of liquid carnauba wax and advanced polymers to provide a durable and lasting shine. Others claim that this product should be used immediately after washing the car while the paint is still wet. But I noticed some streaking when I did this so I still recommend drying the paint before applying this spray wax.

The Car Guys Hybrid Wax Sealant also comes with an edgeless microfiber detailing cloth which will make the application process much easier. The slick hydrophobic finish will encourage water beading so your paint will stay clean even after exposure to strong rain.

All in all, it’s one of the best quick wax products that we’ve tested!

Pros

Cons

Want a more in-depth review? Here ya go! Car Guys Spray Wax Review

3. Meguiar’s Quick Wax

Meguiar's G7716 Gold Class Carnauba Quik Wax,...

• PREMIUM CARNAUBA WAX: Special blend of premium carnauba wax for achieving the maximum richness and depth of shine. The blend leaves your car up to showroom standards. It is a natural way to illuminate...
• EASY-TO-USE SPRAY: This hassle-free application can even be done in direct sunlight. So, don’t sweat the heat and give the best to your car’s coat by applying our professional grade spray wax for...
• CLEAR COAT SAFE: Safe and effective on all glossy paints and clear coats (not for use on flat, matte, or satin finishes). Plus, it is the ideal choice for bringing out the depth and gloss, especially...

$9.54

Buy on Amazon

The Meguiar’s Quik Wax is formulated with Carnauba and is the perfect spray wax for black cars. As with all Meguiar’s products, this spray wax will leave a deep and glossy shine while applying a layer of protection to the paint in a single application.

Unlike other spray waxes we tested, the Meguiar’s is able to be applied in direct sunlight and hot days. Also it leaves a lot less white streaking and cleans up quicker.

What I like most about this product is that it is easy to use and it doesn’t leave white residue on plastic and trim pieces. The process is nothing more than to simply mist on and mist off using a microfiber towel. As with all other spray wax, the Meguair’s Ultimate Quik Wax works best when used in conjunction with other Meguair’s products.

Remember to mist one section of the paint at a single time to achieve the best results. I did notice a bit of streaking on black paint when I allowed the spray wax to dry thoroughly before wiping with a dry cloth.

Pros

Cons

Want some more info on this carnuaba spray wax? Check out our review here: Meguiar’s G7716 Carnauba Quik Wax Review

4. Mothers California Gold

Mothers California Gold 3 Clay Bar Complete Kit, 3...

• Mothers clay bar detailer is trusted by professionals to remove debris, clear scratches, and prepare your car for its final waxing. Includes 2 Clay Bars, one 16 oz. Mothers California Gold Instant...
• Easily remove embedded grains of metal, tree sap, airborne deposits, dropping, and paint overspray with this dynamic, long-lasting clay bar kit. This system adds depth and clarity, leaving your...
• Mothers California Gold Clay Bar System smooths and cleans all types of car paint without damaging its shine. Mothers’ Clay is more pliable and non-abrasive than other car detailing kits, making it...

$23.88

Buy on Amazon

The Mothers California Gold Spray Wax contains heat-resistant carnauba wax to provide a brilliant and lasting shine. This product can be used on both wet and dry surfaces to boost the protection of the existing wax in your paint. If you’ve never “clayed your car” then do some research and give it a shot. It adds a super deep shine to most vehicles and restores shine to glass-like quality.

What I like most about the Mother’s California Gold Spray Wax is that it can also be used to treat and protect rubber, plastic trim, and glass, which is similar to the Turtle ICE Spray Wax.

The trigger bottle makes it easy to apply the product. However, I noticed that you will need to buff the surface slightly to achieve a good shine. Not exactly a wipe on and wipe off procedure, but it still performs well especially when used along with the Mothers California Gold Pure Brazilian Carnauba Liquid Wax.

Pros

Cons

5. Griot’s Garage Spray-on Wash

Griot's Garage Spray-On Car Wash for Vehicle...

• WATERLESS CAR WASH: This high-lubricity formula lifts dirt, dust, and grime without scratching paint, making it the ideal car wash soap alternative for areas with water restrictions or during cold...
• STREAK-FREE SHINE: Our rinseless car wash spray clings to surfaces, breaks down road grime quickly, and wipes away cleanly, leaving behind a flawless, streak-free finish
• ADDS PROTECTION WHILE YOU CLEAN: Infused with carnauba car wax to enhance gloss and provide a layer of protection, helping maintain your vehicle’s shine between washes or after quick detailer use

Buy on Amazon

This product is a bit different in the sense that it is ideally used without water to clean your vehicle. The Griot’s Garage Spray-on was is formulated to deliver an outstanding shine with adequate water beading protection.

Simply spray on and wipe off after rinsing your car. No need to dry the finish before applying this wash. The only caveat is that it is hard to wipe off when used on a dry surface. Believe me, I’ve tried it myself many times.

When used as directed, the Griot’s Garage Spray-on Wax is one of the quick washes for your car. Although I did notice that you will need a bit more of the product to achieve the best possible results.

Pros

Cons

6. Chemical Guys Hybrid V7 High Gloss Spray Sealant

Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select...

• HIGH GLOSS SHINE - Hybrid V07 is a quick detailer spray and sealant that produces a high gloss shine with stunning optical clarity and durable protection, refreshing your paint in-between full washes.
• OPTICAL SELECT SPRAY SEALANT TECHNOLOGY - Designed to remove fingerprints, dust, road grime, and debris, Hybrid V07 bonds to the surface to reveal a high gloss finish and bring life to any color...
• EASY TO APPLY PROTECTION - Hybrid V07 is designed to protect your car from the harshest elements and fight off the elements of daily driving, creating a durable layer of shine and protection.

$19.97

Buy on Amazon

New for 2018!

We were intrigued by the Chemical Guys Hybrid 7 Sealant and Detailer. Our friend recommended this product highly for quick detailing work. The product claims to deliver a lasting and superior shine. The product is formulated to virtually disappear on the surface of the paint for a streak-free application.

The Chemical Guys Spray Sealant is designed to work at a Nano-spec level to instantly bond with painted surfaces. Not sure what exactly that means, but it sure cleans and shines up paint well! This product is also great for glass and alloy wheels, which we found unusual.

I picked up mine from Amazon here: Chemical Guys Hybrid 7

This sealant and quick detailer is easy to apply on relatively new paint. It only took a couple of sprays to refresh the finish of the hood, roof, and trunk on our 2005 GMC 1500 with midnight black pain. But if you are working with a dirty or oxidized finish, be prepared for streaking on dark-colored paint.

After treating the dirty surface with a separate coat of pre-cleaner and polish, the Chemical Guys Hybrid V7  applied smoothly and cleanly with minimal streaking, even on dark or black paint.

Pros

Cons

If you’re buying some vehicle car polish spray, you’ll need some quality microfiber towels. Check out the guide we just wrote: How to choose the best microfiber towel for your car

Here’s the Real Lowdown on Spray Wax

Not everyone will agree with me here, but here’s the real lowdown on spray wax: they’re not quite as durable as pure carnauba wax, and the effects of spray wax will usually wear off after a couple of washes. That’s a fact. Read more about the Best Car Waxes and Polishes here

In order to totally understand what I’m on about, you need to understand that spray wax is not the be-all and end-all of auto detailing. Spray waxes are only good as quick touch-ups in between the actual waxing and polishing process.

In other words, spray wax is better for brand new paint finishes that don’t require intensive prepping and swirl removal. In this regard, I have to admit that spray wax works extremely well on brand new paint. The process will also save you a ton of elbow grease since it’s easier to apply.

But when it comes to restoring the deepest possible shine and depth of color, you are better off with using a high-quality carnauba polish and finishing the job with pure carnauba wax. The same holds true if you are looking to remove scratches, tar, asphalt, dead insects, and swirl marks from the paint finish.

Here’s another fact that you need to remember: you will still need to polish and wax the paint for the car polish spray to get the maximum benefit on the paint.

Got yourself a black or dark colored vehicle? You should read this guide: Top 5 Best Wax for Black Cars and Trucks

If you’ve ever thought of using spray wax on your car you’re not the first one to do so. It’s a popular supplement for traditional waxing that is cheap and fast.

Easiest way to wax a car with spray wax

Kindly allow me to discuss the easy steps to achieve the best possible shine and protection on car paint. This will allow you to thoroughly understand what spray wax is all about.

There you go. You might know someone who applies spray wax after every wash, but I personally don’t recommend this at all. Besides the fact that it will take too much work, it is not exactly an economical way to maintain the shine of your vehicle.

Like I previously mentioned above, you only need to apply weekly after washing the vehicle. Of course, this is assuming that you actually wash your car once a week.

Is Spray Wax Really Worth it?

You probably know by now that I’m not a big fan of spray wax. It’s just that I personally prefer applying a light coat of pure carnauba wax weekly on my own fleet of cars. You can invest in a good orbital buffer to make the process much easier.

I have another beef with spray waxes: compatibility. Nothing serious here. If you used Meguair’s or Mothers to wax and polish your paint, then you should use a spray wax from the same manufacturer. It’s as simple as that.

Want to know the reason behind this? It’s simple chemistry. Waxes and polishes are formulated differently. Some will use polymer-based sealants (like Turtle ICE wax) while others prefer to only use pure carnauba wax. If you use it with the same type of formula as the wax that you used on the paint, then this will yield the best possible results.

Pros and Cons of Spray Wax

Spray wax is still partially liquid car wax, and contains the same ingredients that traditional waxes have. The only major difference is that it comes in a can.

Pros

One of the major benefits is that spray wax provides UV protection. Since UV light degrades car paint and leads to the richness and luster of the paint fading over time, this is a welcome benefit. Not only that, it restores the clear coat on the car and maintains it. Whether you want a little touch up before you rush out to an event, or just want to do a little maintenance, it’s great either way. In short, it’s a real time saver with added benefits.

Spray wax is also a great time saver in that it makes your hand/polisher carnuaba wax job last longer. Most people recommend waxing your ride every 3-4 months, but what I’ve found is that by using spray wax once a week or every other week, my paint stays shinier in between waxings.

Another advantage of spray wax is that it’s versatile. It can be used on various surfaces, including paint, chrome, and even plastic trim.

Cons

Even though spray wax provides UV protection, in rare cases, it can damage finish overtime. This is because it contains a lot of chemicals that can react with your car’s original coat of paint as time passes by. For this reason, I highly recommend you do a real wax and polish once or twice a year to keep the vehicle exterior in pristine condition.  Even the best spray waxes are not a substitute for a traditional wax and polish.

Another con is that it’s not an alternative to actually washing your car. Sure, if the vehicle has a little bit of dirt on it, you may be able to get by with just a light coat, but not otherwise. Spray waxes are better for adding gloss and maintaining the existing wax or sealant. They may not be the best choice for deep cleaning or removing heavy contaminants from the paint surface. If your car is dirty, it will require a proper wash; there’s just no other option.

How long does Spray Wax Last?

Spray waxes don’t usually last more than six months. But don’t do that. They might “last” that long, but your paint isn’t going to be as shiny and protected as if you applied it once a week or so. I like to apply a quick coat about once a week, usually after washing my ride.

Keeping your car looking good as new is important to many people. For some it’s a status symbol, for others it’s a badge of honor, and for some it’s just something they enjoy doing as a hobby or as a tradition that was passed down generation to generation. Whatever the reason may be, auto spray wax waxes are a good tool to help keep your car looking brand new.

Conclusion

In summary, spray wax is a convenient and quick solution for adding shine and light protection to your vehicle. While it may not offer the same level of durability as traditional waxes, its ease of use and versatility make it a popular choice for regular maintenance and touch-ups.

Choosing the ultimate winner among the best spray wax for cars is not an easy task. All the products I tested here worked well when used with the same brand of wax or polish.

My decision will be based on ease of application, the depth of shine, and the price. You know that I’m not exactly rooting for spray wax, but the Meguiar’s Ultimate Quik Wax is my top choice. I would also recommend the Griot’s Garage Spray-on Wax, but it is the most expensive product in this test. I just think it’s better to spend your money on a proper carnauba wax or polish for the ultimate in shine and protection.

Now, these are great products to use if you want a quick “touch-up” shine before hitting the strip on a Friday night cruise, or if you’re a busy guy and don’t have a few hours to devote to using a true carnauba wax job.

Again, if you’re looking to restore the depth, color, and clarity of automotive paint, nothing beats pre-cleaning, polishing, and waxing the finish. Auto spray waxes can only do so much when it comes to gloss, shine, and clarity.

-Mike

The post Best Spray Wax for Cars ✔️ Here’s the Real Lowdown appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Best Engine Degreaser for a Sparkling Clean Engine Bay

I know a lot of you will agree with me that we spend a lot of time washing and waxing the exterior of our rides. This is all part of being a dyed-in-the-wool car enthusiast.

We have a saying that holds true: friends don’t let friends drive a dirty car.

But do you also pay attention to the engine bay of your ride? Probably not. You can’t clean the engine bay with water and an old rag. You will need to use an engine degreaser to clean the engine bay, especially if you have an older car.

Comparison Table

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Purple Power (4320P) Industrial Strength Cleaner...	No ratings yet	$16.97	Buy on Amazon
2		Gunk FEB1 Foamy Engine Brite Engine Degreaser -...	No ratings yet	$12.50	Buy on Amazon
3		Chemical Guys Signature Series Orange Degreaser,...	No ratings yet	$11.99	Buy on Amazon
4		Oil Eater Original 1 Gallon Cleaner, Degreaser -...	No ratings yet	$15.29	Buy on Amazon
5		Simple Green 19010 Foaming Crystal Industrial...	No ratings yet	$19.99	Buy on Amazon

Friends don’t let friends drive a dirty car…

But before we tackle the best engine degreasers, let me tell you a story. I’m sure you can relate to this in one way or another.

I have a friend that maintains a sparkling clean ride, complete with tire dressing and all. He also spends an entire weekend detailing the interior and exterior of his ride. He is a true car nut, and he is OCD when it comes to dust, swirl marks, and scratches on the paint.

I feel his passion. I used to have an exotic Japanese coupe with jet black paint. You know that black paint (or dark paint colors for that matter) is a magnet when it comes to swirl marks and mild scratches on the finish. The only way to get rid these nasty battle scars is to prep, polish, and wax the finish. I guess you know that already. If you need help on choosing wax for your ride, check out our guide: Best Car Wax 

But when my friend called me to borrow an OBD2 scanner diagnose a check engine problem (the MIL or malfunction indicator lamp was ON), imagine my horror when I popped the hood open to check the engine bay.

To say that it was dirty was an understatement. In my mind, it will take more than the best engine degreaser to clean it up. It was like Poland after WWII. It was THAT bad. Every nook and cranny was covered in thick layers of dust, and there were tons of grease and grime that will make OPEC proud.

In my mind, why does my friend spend a lot of time detailing the paint and not even contemplate on tidying up the engine bay?

He told me “I’m not pretending to know a lot about cars, buddy. You know I love driving, but I only know jack sh** about engines and stuff.”

Well, he made a valid point. What he really meant to say was that he was afraid to clean the engine because he didn’t want to mess things up. Spraying the engine bay with water should be done sporadically. In short, engine detailing is not for novices. It is very easy for something to go terribly wrong, like your car refusing to start after dousing the engine bay with water.

There is a reason why professional engine cleaning and detailing will cost you as high as $150 or more depending on your vehicle. You will need adequate knowledge about engine parts that don’t appreciate it when you spray them with water like a virile fireman. Like the alternator, for instance.

Best engine cleaners and degreasers summary

• Purple Power – Best Overall Engine Bay Cleaner
• Gunk Foamy – Best Engine Degreaser
• Chemical Guys Signature Orange Degreaser
• Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser
• Simple Green Foaming Crystal – Easiest to use engine cleaner

Introducing the Best Engine Degreasers for a Full Detailing and Cleaning

Here are the top engine degreasing products that you can use on your car. These are products that we’ve tested over the years and have had great results.

1. Purple Power

Purple Power (4320P) Industrial Strength Cleaner...

• Concentrated formula penetrates grease, oil and dirt on contact
• Creates barrier between stain and surface
• In just seconds, Purple Power wipes away even the toughest stains

$16.97

Buy on Amazon

The Purple Power made the top of our list because it’s one of the cheapest cleaners that doubles as an engine degreaser. While not designed specifically for cleaning engine bays, it still does a great job!

The Purple Power Degreaser is designed for automotive, home, farm, industry, and marine use. It is an industrial strength cleaner and degreaser that delivers good value for money. This concentrated product costs less than [amazon link="B002HU5N4O" title="click to see price"] per gallon, which is pretty cheap in my book.

The concentrated formula is designed to penetrate grease, dirt, and oil while creating a barrier between the surface and the stain. This cleaner and degreaser is non-flammable, non-abrasive, and biodegradable. However, this product should not come into contact with painted surfaces as it may cause permanent damage or dulling of the surface.

Since the Purple Power is concentrated, you only need a small amount of this product mixed with water in a 1-liter spray bottle for the magic to take effect. You can also use this product undiluted to remove stubborn dirt, grease, and grime on demanding jobs such as cleaning the barbecue grille.

This product worked well in removing grease and gunk from the engine bay, but you need to be careful that you don’t mess up the paint in your fenders and front bumper. For stubborn and hard to remove dirt, you will need to brush off the stain after letting Purple Power soak for about a minute or two.

Pros

Cons

2. Gunk Foamy

Gunk FEB1 Foamy Engine Brite Engine Degreaser -...

• The world's number 1 selling Engine Degreaser
• No scrubbing
• Safe on all engine components

$12.50

Buy on Amazon

I have to admit that this is one of my favorite engine degreasers. The Gunk Foamy Engine Degreaser is not as cheap as the concentrated formula of Purple Power, but it is easier to use and ridiculously easy to apply. Just spray it over your engine, do some quick scrubbing, and rinse it off. Bam! Engine bay detailing is done!

The foaming action clings easily to vertical surfaces so you can clean every nook and cranny of the engine bay. While Gunk says that no scrubbing is required, you will still need to use an engine detailing brush to remove thick wads of dirt and grime from the valve cover and head of your engine. It is ridiculous to assume that this product will ultimately erase all traces of dirt and oil without scrubbing, but I used this product on a not-so-old Honda Accord and it did the job without necessitating the use of a brush.

The Gunk Foamy Engine Degreaser is safe to use on all engine components, even cars equipped with plastic engine covers. The fast acting formula will literally dissolve dirt, grease, and grime if you let the product soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Using this product is the easiest way to clean and degrease your engine. It is not as effective on extremely dirty and greasy surfaces, but it does the job quite well for the price.

Pros

Cons

3. Chemical Guys Signature Orange Degreaser

Chemical Guys Signature Series Orange Degreaser,...

• Heavy-duty degreaser – Cuts through grease, grime & oil fast
• Multi-surface cleaner – Ideal for engines, tires, tools & more
• Professional-strength formula – Tackles the toughest messes

$11.99

Buy on Amazon

The Chemical Guys Signature Orange Degreaser is formulated to remove tough dirt, grease, and grime on car engines, tools, tires, rims, undercarriages, and even on industrial-grade machinery. The citrus-based formula can easily loosen oil, grease, and grime so you can easily rinse them off with water!

This product is super concentrated. You can use it pure strength for heavy stains, or you can add a few drops to a bucket of water so you can mop away dirt and grime from your shop floor. While this product is safe to use on plastic surfaces, I recommend NOT using this product full-strength in cleaning aluminum parts. We heard of a guy that ruined his supercharger lid by doing this.

However, when diluted to the right strength, it is hard to fault the Chemical Guys Orange Degreaser. Another plus factor is the citrusy scent, which makes for a more pleasurable cleaning experience.

This engine degreaser did the job right the first time. The trick is to dilute the product with water, spray and let it soak for a while, then lightly scrub the surface and rinse with water.

Pros

Cons

4. Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser (1 gallon)

Oil Eater Original 1 Gallon Cleaner, Degreaser -...

• Powerful Cleaning: Dissolves Grease, Oil And Dirt From Any Washable Surface
• Usda Approved: For Use At Food Service Facilities (A1, A4, A8)
• Biodegradable Formula: No Harsh Solvents And Is Noncorrosive

$15.29

Buy on Amazon

First, the bad. The Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser costs more than [amazon link="B000EALHHG" title="see price"] per gallon. Yes, the product is concentrated so a little goes a long way, but this product costs 3x as much as the Purple Power Degreaser.

But then again, the Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser is non-hazardous, non-corrosive, non-toxic, and USDA approved for use on non-food surfaces. So you don’t have to worry much about getting this stuff on your hands because it’s not as harsh of a cleaner as some of the other engine degreasers listed. This product is not only good in degreasing the engine bay, but you can also use this to clean floors, carpets, white-wall tires, heavy machinery, and industrial tools.

Simply dilute a small amount of the product with water and spray liberally over the entire engine bay. Of course, you will still need a brush to remove thick and gummed up grease and grime. Let the product soak for a while, scrub, and rinse.

Since this product is non-toxic and non-corrosive (except on warm or hot aluminum surfaces), it doesn’t do a good job of cleaning concentrated amounts of oil and dirt, such as oil spills on the shop floor. The Oil Eater engine degreaser is not designed for tough jobs like that.

Pros

Cons

5. Simple Green Foaming Crystal

Simple Green 19010 Foaming Crystal Industrial...

• The specialized foaming formula clings to vertical and hard-to-reach surfaces enabling controlled application and longer contact time on soiled areas
• The foaming action provides some agitation of the crystal Simple Green formula in areas where agitation would otherwise be impossible
• Foaming crystal Simple Green is non-toxic, non-abrasive, non-flammable and biodegradable

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

What makes the Simple Green Foaming Crystal Engine Degreaser stand out is the color-free and fragrance-free formula that is non-abrasive, non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe to use on plastic, rubber, and metal surfaces. It’s also the easiest engine bay cleaner to use. It comes in a compressed spray can so you do not have to dilute it, just spray, scrub a litte, and rinse. That’s all!

I also like the price. This engine degreaser costs less than [amazon link="B0010T66JO" title="price too low to show"] for a 20 oz. spray can. The foaming action clings to vertical surfaces which make it easy to apply the product on hard to reach surfaces. Like the other products I tested here, the trick in using the Simple Green Foaming Crystal Industrial Cleaner and Degreaser is to let the foamy solution soak for at least 2 minutes before rinsing off.

While it might cost a little more than the Purple Power or Chemical Guys cleaners, it’s a very conveniant cleaner to have around the shop.

You will still need to utilize a soft brush to remove stubborn grease and grime prior to rinsing. But for not-so-tough jobs, this product makes easy work of carbon deposits and oil sludge.

Pros

Cons

Engine Bay Cleaning and Detailing Tips

Mike wrote up a good article on DIY Engine Detailing that you should check out for an in depth guide on cleaning that greasy old vehicle engine bay.

Here are some tips that you need to keep in mind if you are planning to purchase an engine degreaser for some good old DIY action:

How to clean your engine bay (the right way)

We HIGHLY recommend you check our ChrisFix’s video on detailing your engine bay. Make sure you subscribe to his channel too! He’s a good guy that provides tons of helpful DIY car tips and fixes.

Conclusion

For general cleaning and degreasing, all the products in this test worked surprisingly well. If you are looking for an all-purpose degreaser, you can’t go wrong with the Purple Power Degreaser, the Chemical Guys Orange Degreaser, and the Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser.

However, when it comes purely to the best engine degreasers, nothing beats the value and ease of use of the Gunk Engine Degreaser and the Simple Green Foaming Crystal Engine Degreaser. Best of all, these two products are friendly on the pocket and ready to use with no dilution necessary.

Matt

The post DIY Engine Detailing – Best Engine Degreaser appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Avoid Scratches and Swirl Marks These Best Car Wash Mitts and Sponges

We’ll save you the reading, here’s our choices:

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Chemical Guys MIC_493 Chenille Microfiber Premium...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
2		Relentless Drive Car Wash Mitt - Works as Car Wash...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
3		Premium Car Wash Mitt - 2-Pack - Free Polishing...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
4		3 Pack Car Wash Mitt Chenille Microfiber Free...	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
5		Detailer's Choice 9-21M 2N1 Microfiber Wash and...	No ratings yet	$8.89	Buy on Amazon

Nothing beats the look of a flawlessly waxed car paint. And you’re gonna need to use one of these best car wash mitts to get your ride cleaned up before waxing! If you’re just like me (I’m a stickler for cars, particularly the paint finish) then you will do everything in your power to avoid scratches and swirl marks in the paint finish. It all begins in the washing process. If you’re still using a dirty sponge or cloth towel to wash your car, then it’s time you consider the best microfiber car wash mitts. Microfiber wash mitts are now the preferred choice of professional detailers because they make the job of washing the car so much easier. Simply using a microfiber towel to clean and shampoo your car is the easiest way to prevent swirl marks and light scratches on the finish.

Of course, microfiber towels alone will not eliminate those pesky swirl marks. You will need a good quality polish, carnauba wax, and lots of elbow grease for that. But paying attention to your vehicle washing habits will significantly decrease the occurrence of imperfections in the paint. Prevention is the best cure, and the same holds true when it comes to protecting and preserving the paint in your ride.

Our Favorite Five Best Car Wash Gloves and Sponges

Let’s get into our top car wash gloves and sponges. I’ll lay it out for you first though:

1. Chemical Guys Mitt

Chemical Guys MIC_493 Chenille Microfiber Premium...

• Premium scratch free car wash mitt: Keep your car clean without scratching it with this super soft microfiber car wash mitt
• Extra plush & absorbent: You wouldn't wash your body with porcupine right, so don't do it to your car either. This wash mitt is super soft, and holds water and soap, so your wash is easier and faster
• Double stitched elastic cuff: Tight fitting cuff keeps the mitt on your hand, not on the ground or the bottom of your bucket

Buy on Amazon

The Chemical Guys Chenille Microfiber Wash Mitt costs around [amazon link="B003TTL0TE" title="see price"]. It is an extra plush, soft and absorbent car wash mitt with a microfiber blend ratio of 70/30. It is equipped with a double-stitched elastic cuff so you can wear this like a glove when washing your vehicle.

Equipped with big and fat caterpillar strands, this wash mitt is specifically designed to be extremely absorbent so you can wash your car with relative ease. This wash mitt is also machine washable. Simply throw it in the washing machine after each use and let dry. In order to retain the lint-free properties of the Chemical Guys Wash Mitt, you should wash it separately from other cotton or cloth rags.

I like this wash mitt not because of the price, but I like the absorbency of the material. I also noticed a bit of leftover lint from the paint when I was drying my car. This cleared up after the first wash or two.

Pros

Cons

2. Relentless Drive Wash Glove

Relentless Drive Car Wash Mitt - Works as Car Wash...

Buy on Amazon

The Relentless Drive Ultimate Car Wash Mitt is a 2-pack of extra-large microfiber wash mitts for… Well it’s actually a little more expensive than the Chemical Guy Chenille pad. It has a blend ratio of 80/20 and is composed of double-sided chenille to soak up more water and soap than regular wash mitts.

Tip: Buy the Extra Large version. It’s only a couple bucks more and worth it!

This a professional quality washing mitt that prevents scratches and swirls while giving you a lint-free finish. I like the fact that you get 2 wash mitts in a single pack since I have three cars in my arsenal. It is also a great wash mitt to use inside the home. I used this to clean glass and worked perfectly the first time around.

The Relentless Drive Ultimate Car Wash Mitt is also machine washable. I did have an issue with blue dye leaching inside my washer after the first wash or so. I also had issues with quality as one of the two wash mitts began to slowly deteriorate and fall apart after five or six washes. Still, this is a close runner up for the best car wash mitts!

Pros

Cons

3. BlueCare Automotive Microfiber Glove

Premium Car Wash Mitt - 2-Pack - Free Polishing...

• THE HIGHEST QUALITY microfiber wash mitt on Amazon. LIFETIME WARRANTY.
• SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. Highest density, most durable, longest lasting wash mitts on Amazon. Your complete satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.
• MORE EFFECTIVE CLEANING POWER than any car wash sponge. LINT FREE, NON-SCRATCH, VERSATILE: Use indoors and out, wet or dry. Dries quickly.

Buy on Amazon

What I like most about the BlueCare Premium Microfiber Car Wash Mitt is the lifetime warranty. Sounds too good to be true? Maybe. I’ve heard some people had trouble with the seams ripping after about four washes, but it all boils down to how you use the wash mitt. Use it appropriately, however, and you shouldn’t have any issues at all. Now, I’m not too worried about the lifetime warranty because you’ll spend half the cost of the mitt just in shipping if you have to redeem it. It’s not a bad deal though if you like pinching pennies 🙂

The BlueCare Car Wash Mitt has a blend ratio of 80/20 and a density of 1500 GSM…. So it’s basically like the first couple mitts in our review roundup.

The super soft microfiber yarns are woven into large caterpillar-like fingers to produce an ultra-absorbent and non-abrasive material. It does absorb a lot of soapy water but it tends to get heavy if you do so. However, I didn’t have issues with the wash mitt slipping off my wrist, unlike other glove-type wash mitts.

This product comes in a pack of two wash mitts for less than [amazon link="B00YEWFNFW" title="find it on Amazon"]. You also get a bonus microfiber cloth that is perfect for wiping or polishing.

Make sure to get the “XTRA LARGE” version unless you’re buying these for your wife. I bought the Large and couldn’t fit it over my sausage fingers. 

Pros

Cons

4. Chaole Wash Glove

3 Pack Car Wash Mitt Chenille Microfiber Free...

• 3 pack microfiber chenille car wash mitts
• Scratch-free,lint-free and swirl-free,extra plush microfiber,delivers premium wash
• Can be used over and over on all vehicle types,boats, RV's and around the house

Buy on Amazon

When it comes to value, it is hard to compete with the Chaole Car Wash Mitts. You get two microfiber wash mitts and two wax applicators (I think that’s what they are?). This kit has a dual-sided interwoven chenille design for added durability.

These wash mitts are also equipped with a thick elastic band so you can wear it comfortably around your wrist, even when the wash mitt is heavy with soapy water. It is also machine washable and easy to clean. I also like the fact that it didn’t leave any trace of lint on the paint. It seems the thick chenille was woven tightly to prevent fibers from scattering all over the surface.

Like the other microfiber wash mitts in this list, you can use the Chaole Car Wash Mitts on both wet and dry surfaces. Each wash mitt has a density of 1500 GSM which makes them perfect for washing and drying your vehicle. They come in blue, blue, and blue colors so you don’t have much choices there 🙂

Pros

Cons

5. Detailer’s Choice 2-in-1 Sponge and Scrubber

Detailer's Choice 9-21M 2N1 Microfiber Wash and...

• Includes One Sponge
• Features Plush Microfiber that Cleans Away Dirt and Grime
• Includes a Mesh Side for Gentle Scrubbing

$8.89

Buy on Amazon

If you got some real tough grime on your truck or jeep, take a look at the Detailer’s Choice Microfiber Wash and Scrub Sponge. Don’t let the name fool you. This wash mitt might look like a sponge, but it is actually two products in one.

On one side, it is a plush microfiber wash mitt that can effectively clean dirt and grime and prevent them from harming the surface of the paint. Turn it over and you have a mesh side for gentle scrubbing. This is great for removing bugs/dead insects, tar, and tree sap from the paint without harming the finish.

I also found out that this microfiber wash and scrub sponge is great for cleaning the tires and wheels in my car. Of course, you should buy a separate sponge for the paint but this product worked well in removing dried-out brake dust from my alloy wheels.

Pros

Cons

Before delving deeper into our favorite car wash tools, here are a couple of things that you need to know about microfiber.

What is microfiber?

Microfiber is a small synthetic fiber composed of two main materials: polyester and polyamide. Each strand of microfiber is about 1/100^th the diameter of human hair. When a bunch of microfiber strands are sewn together, this creates the perfect material for drawing dirt, grease, and grime from the surface of the material.

What is the microfiber blend ratio?

The blend ratio of microfiber wash mitts is the percentage of polyester and polyamide utilized in the material. For example, if your microfiber towel has a blend ratio of 80/20, this means that your towel is a blend of 80% polyester and 20% polyamide.

The higher the percentage of polyamide in the material, the softer the towel. By varying the ratio of polyester and polyamide, manufacturers can enhance the toughness, softness, durability, and absorption characteristics of the microfiber mitt.

Let’s not wash our cars like this 🙂

via GIPHY

Microfiber Density

Besides the blend ratio, microfiber towels are also classified according to density. The density of microfiber is expressed in GSM or grams per square meter.

The higher the density, the softer and thicker the towel. For example, if your microfiber wash mitt has a density of 1500 GSM, then this will be thicker and more absorbent than a microfiber towel with 630 GSM.

The easiest way to determine the blend ratio and density of your microfiber mitt is to check the tag.

Prevent Scratches and Swirl Marks with these Advanced Car Wash Tips

Switching to the best car wash mitt is not enough. If you are looking to prevent scratches and swirl marks on your paint, then you need to remember these car wash tips:

Conclusion

I really enjoyed using the Chemical Guys Chenille Microfiber Wash Mitt and the Detailer’s Choice 2-in-1 Microfiber Wash and Scrub Sponge. The former lasted longer than other wash mitts, while the latter made it easy to remove tar, asphalt, and dead insects from the paint. Both products also provide good value for money and have earned their place in our best car wash mitts guide.

-Mike

The post Best Car Wash Mitts for a Crystal Clean Car appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Hey there I’m Mike! For years I’ve been tinkering with engines and squeezing out that extra bit of horsepower… But what’s it all that power worth if your ride looks like a bucket of rust!? You want to be able to cruise the drag in your 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS and see the sun glisten off the ruby red paint. And to do that, you’re gonna want to take car of your paint and exterior.

You Need a Complete Car Wax Kit? Check this out….

Because we at ScannerAnswers want you be take pride in your ride for years to come, Matt wrote up a quick guide on waxing your car (or truck)  and the best car wax to preserve paint color.  One of the featured products that we got a lot of questions on was the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit. We figured that rather than responding to all 56 emails, we’d right a quick, hands-on review on the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit.

Why did we write the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit Review?

I personally like washing and waxing my cars. I usually wax or polish my cars during the weekends. This gives me more than enough time to inspect the interior and exterior so I can do something to correct and prevent further damage.

Scratches, stains, and swirl marks on the paint are more evident on darker colored cars, and I used to have 2 black cars sitting in my driveway. Black or dark paint requires a bit more care and attention since using the wrong cleaning and washing techniques will actually do more harm than good in terms of clarity, depth of color, and overall shine.

The above reasons are why I was looking forward to writing this Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit review. I am a big fan of the Meguiar’s brand and I prefer using Meguiar’s car care products over other brands.

Why?

Because their wax work very well on my black cars, and they consistently integrate natural carnauba wax in creating their top-of-the-line waxes and polishes.

Carnauba is the hardest natural wax in the world. It is also responsible for bringing out the deep and glossy shine of the paint. Believe me, I have tried other waxes and polishes from other brands that contain synthetic Nano ingredients. Some of them work, but I still prefer the professional results that a carnauba-based product can bring.

In this Meguiar’s review, I tried to test each and every part of the 12-piece detailing kit to determine if each product works as advertised.

Features of the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit

For less than [amazon link="B0012ZEZ8A" title="see price on Amazon"], you get a whole variety of products from Meguair’s that will cater to all your auto detailing needs. In this kit, you’ll get:

• 16 oz. bottle of Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo and Conditioner
• 16 oz. bottle of Meguiar’s Gold Class Liquid Wax
• 16 oz. spray bottle of Meguiar’s Quik Detailer
• 16 oz. spray bottle of Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer
• 16 oz. bottle of Meguiar’s Endurance Tire Gel
• 10 oz. bottle of Meguiar’s ScratchX 2.0
• 10 oz. bottle of Meguiar’s PlastX
• Two 50-gram Meguiar’s Clay Bars
• Foam applicator pad
• Meguiar’s Microfiber kit (wash mitt and microfiber towel)

This kit contains everything you need to detail the interior and exterior of your vehicle. In fact, this kit is applicable even if you have more than 2 cars in your stable since a single 16 oz. bottle of shampoo or polish is enough to detail 4 or 5 vehicles.

I personally like waxing or polishing by hand, but it’s good to know that the products included in this kit (particularly the Gold Class Liquid Wax and the ScratchX 2.0) can be applied and removed using an orbital buffer.

Meguiar's Complete Car Care Kit - The Ultimate Car...

• COMPLETE HOME CAR WASH KIT: Our car wash cleaning kit includes 12 premium car cleaning products and car wash accessories that wash, shine, and protect your paint, interior, wheels, tires, bumpers, and...
• GOLD CLASS CAR WASH SHAMPOO: Designed to blast away dirt and grime while boosting your car’s shine, Gold Class Car Wash Foam keeps your car paint cleaner by both washing and conditioning with an...
• GOLD CLASS CARNAUBA PLUS LIQUID WAX: No car detailing kit would be complete without an easy way to keep your paint protected. Gold class carnauba plus liquid wax uses a polymer-enhanced formula to...

Buy on Amazon

Product Test and Review

For this Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit Review, I decided to test each product on my 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. This used to be my daily driver until a colleague of mine convinced me to transform my bone stock Miata into a more aggressive track day machine. This car is still a work in progress and it just received a fresh coat of Midnight Black urethane paint a couple of months ago. This will serve as the perfect canvass to test the different Meguiar’s products in my arsenal.

Exterior Detailing

I washed the car using the Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo and Conditioner using the supplied microfiber wash mitt. This product works brilliantly since it can effectively remove harmful contaminants from the paint without scratching or marring the surface with swirl marks. Just a capful of this shampoo on a small bucket of water produced a great amount of sudsy foam that it felt like I was washing my car during an Espuma Foam Party in Ibiza.

After washing and drying my Miata, I inspected the paint for hard to remove stains and imperfections like tar, asphalt, and deep scratches. I found a couple of asphalt stains near the front fender, so I grabbed the Meguiar’s Clay Bar and the Quik Detailer spray. The stain was gone in less than 20 seconds. The trick is to spray a bit of Quik Detailer to the affected area and use the clay bar to gently rub off the stain from the paint.

A true car enthusiast knows the proper steps to washing and detailing a car, which is wash-prep-polish-wax. After removing the stains on my Miata using the clay bar, it was now time to apply wax.

Waxing the Miata (My biggest complaint!)

Hold on! But polish should be next after prepping the surface, right? Yes, you’re absolutely right. This is the perfect opportunity to reveal the glaring omission from the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit.

There is no polish included in the kit.

I don’t understand why Meguiar’s didn’t include the Ultimate Polish in this supposedly ‘complete’ car care kit. Thankfully, my Miata was sporting a fresh coat of paint so there was no need for intense polishing (there were just a few minor swirl marks on the doors), but I would prefer a proper polish before applying a fresh coat of wax.

If you need some proper polish, I use (an recommend) Meguiar's Ultimate Polish or Liquid Glass LG-100.

I was hoping that a light coat of the Meguiar’s Gold Class Liquid Wax would be enough to remove or cover up the swirl marks on the doors of my Miata. The Gold Class is a mixture of pure carnauba wax and synthetic polymers that protect the paint against UV damage while giving it an intense showroom shine. I waxed my Miata using the supplied foam applicator pad and removed the excess using the supplied microfiber towel.

So far, so good.

The Gold Class Liquid Wax was able to cover the swirl marks and my Miata is now gleaming proudly with joy!

On to the tires…

In order to complete the process, I grabbed the Meguiar’s Endurance Tire Gel and applied a thin coat on the tires using a separate applicator pad. It shined up my treads pretty good (and should last longer than the ArmorAll that I sometimes use when I’m in a pinch! 😛 )

I didn’t use the ScratchX 2.0 since there were no deep scratches or oxidation on my paint, and neither did I use the PlastX on my headlights… so I cannot comment on how they would work. I’ll give them to my buddy Donny because his 2003 Dodge Caravan has been needing a headlight and wheel/rim restoration.

Next, it was time to clean the interior –

Interior Detailing

Since my MX-5 is a convertible, the interior is prone to accumulate an assortment of dirt and stains. I used a separate microfiber towel to wipe away the dirt and dust from the dash, console, door sidings, and the seats.

I grabbed the Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer and sprayed a liberal amount on all hard interior surfaces before wiping the excess with a clean microfiber towel. The results were amazing since the plastic surfaces looked revitalized without the feeling greasy or oily to the touch.

Conclusion

My only gripe when reviewing the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit is the absence of a proper polish. For that, I’m deducting a star from this complete kit… because it’s not complete.

Nitpicking aside, this Meguiar’s wax kit is great value considering you get a lot of cleaning products and accessories for the price. Just make sure you have an extra pair of applicator pads and microfiber towels before proceeding to detail your car using this kit.

-Mike

The post Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit Review appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

What is the best car wax for black cars?

Want to skip the reading? Here’s the products!

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Meguiar's G6207 Black Wax Paste, 7oz	No ratings yet		Buy on Amazon
2		Turtle Wax T-3KT Black Box Kit	No ratings yet	$164.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...	No ratings yet	$43.54	Buy on Amazon
4		P21S 12700W Carnauba Wax	No ratings yet	$45.00	Buy on Amazon
5		Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...	No ratings yet	$43.54	Buy on Amazon

It’s a curse without a cure.

It is the type of beauty that requires tons of maintenance.

I’m talking about the black paint of your car. If you are currently the proud owner of a black or dark colored ride then my sentiments are with you.

My name is Matt, and I used to be in the same boat as you. About five years ago, I purchased a jet black Japanese sedan. It was utterly beautiful when brand new, especially as the sun gleamed over the flawless and rich finish. But I soon found out that in order to maintain the look, you need to spend a couple of hours each weekend prepping and dolling up the paint. Seriously.

5 Great Waxes Designed for Black Vehicle Paint

Here is quick summary of the best waxes for black cars that the guys and I at ScannerAnswers have tried so far. Click the link to jump to the wax review and pros and cons of each.

1. Meguiar’s G6207 Paste Wax

Meguiar's G6207 Black Wax Paste, 7oz

• Black Wax
• The perfect wax for dark colored cars!
• Specially formulated for dark to black colors

Buy on Amazon

The Meguiar’s G6207 Black Paste Wax is specially formulated for black and dark-colored paints. This product comes with a hand applicator pad but it can also be applied using an orbital polisher.

This is a 2-in-1 product and combines the benefits of polishing and waxing in a single product. While I find this claim to be true in regards to newer cars, nothing beats the deep and glossy shine of a proper polish before applying wax.

Grab some of this fabulous black paste wax here on Amazon

The Meguiar’s paste can also be used on light-colored paint (they make a “white paint” version). It is unlike other black waxes that contain pigments or colorants to hide scratches on the paint.

I love that this wax is easy and economical to use since a small amount goes a long way.

This wax is formulated using polishing oils, blended polymers, and micro-polishing agents to get rid of swirl marks on the paint. The polymers are designed to enhance the durability of the wax when exposed to rain and UV rays.

This product works best on new black paint and also restores life to old, tired paint. Overall, this is a great product for your dark colored ride. It can remove minor swirl marks and other imperfections without using a separate product.

If you want to know more about this paste, my colleague Mike wrote a Meguiar’s G6207 Paste Review with his experience in using the product.

The Good

2. Turtle Wax T-3KT

Turtle Wax T-3KT Black Box Kit

• Flash point: 67 degrees_celsius

$164.99

Buy on Amazon

The Turtle Wax “Black Box” Kit comes with two 12 oz. bottles of Spray Detailers, a single 12 oz. bottle of Pre-Wax Cleaner and Conditioner, and a 12 oz. bottle of Deep Black Carnauba Wax. The tinted pre-wax cleaner is designed to remove scratches and swirl marks while the carnauba wax is formulated to provide a deep and glossy shine.

I found out that the pre-wax cleaner is great for removing bird droppings and tar spots on the paint but it doesn’t actually remove swirl marks and scratches. Since the formula is tinted black, it only hides the surface imperfections before applying wax. For very light scratches and swirl marks, this is fine, but this is not the product for you if your black paint is marred by deep scratches and swirls.

The included black spray detailer is incredibly easy to use and is ideal for spot cleaning and waxing. However, this kit will mess up your collection of clean microfiber towels. You better have a lot of towels on hand if you are going to spend a weekend using this kit in your car.

The Good

The Bad

You can read the full Turtle Wax “Black Box” Kit review that Vince wrote up here: Turtle Wax Black Box Kit Review 

3. Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate

Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...

• ONE EASY STEP: Formula delivers maximum synthetic protection, durability, depth of color, and reflectivity in this easy one step
• EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Thin Film technology provides for easy application and wipe off even in full sun, and will not stain non-painted trim pieces white
• LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Advanced synthetic polymers crosslink to form a long-lasting protective barrier while amplifying reflection for incredible depth and mirror-like shine

$43.54

Buy on Amazon

I have to admit I’m a huge fan of the Meguiar’s Ultimate liquid wax. When paired with a pure polish (Meguiar’s also makes awesome polish), this product will work wonders on any color of paint. But because this guide is about finding the best wax for black cars, let’s see how it stands up to the rigors of dark exterior paint.

Now, it’s a synthetic wax, which means it will give your black vehicle paint protection for a longer period of time, but it comes at the cost of shine. So if you really want that deep dark shine, you might consider Carnuaba/Brazilian wax over this Synthetic wax. But if you want awesome protection against the sun, UV and other atmospheric elements, Meguiar’s liquid is the perfect wax for black vehicle paint!

This liquid wax is formulated using synthetic polymers with hydrophobic technology. This will create a long-lasting protective barrier on the surface of the paint so water will simply bead and roll off to avoid the presence of nasty watermarks. This product also comes with an applicator pad and microfiber towel so you can start waxing your car right out of the box (although you should also invest in a good clay bar, polish, and maybe a DA orbital polisher).

*Below is a cheesy video about “hydro-phobic technology”… Not sure who coined that phrase? haha

The great thing about the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax is it can be applied by hand or with a Random Orbit polisher machine. I prefer applying the product by hand and remove it using an orbital polisher to achieve the best results.

This product is a pure liquid wax and is designed not to leave ugly white stains on the non-painted plastic trim. Of course, this product will only work best if you polish or pre-clean the paint before applying the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax. You need to keep this in mind if you are working with an older black car.

Grab some Ultimate Liquid wax from Amazon: HERE

I also found out that you only need a small amount of product to treat an entire panel. Using too much of this wax will only make it harder to remove. Luckily, the included applicator pad makes it easy to apply the right amount of product at any given time.

The Good

The Bad

Vince wrote up an awesome Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax Review if you want to know more about this wax.

4. P21S Carnauba

P21S 12700W Carnauba Wax

• “Mirror image” shine
• Remarkable “jetness”
• Easy to apply and remove, by machine or by hand

$45.00

Buy on Amazon

The P21S Carnauba Wax is made from 100% Brazilian No.1 yellow carnauba wax and beeswax to deliver a mirror-like and glossy shine. This product is a paste wax that applies and removes easily even on plastic and rubber trim. It will not leave powdery residue or ugly white stains on exterior trim pieces for a more detailed look.

While I scoffed at the price tag of the P21S Carnauba Wax, all my doubts disappeared after I used this product on my black Honda Accord. The product is easy to use and the consistency makes it easier to apply the right amount of product on each body panel.

Pick up some of this wonder wax here on Amazon.

I also liked the fact that the P21S Carnauba Wax is easy to buff off using a dry microfiber towel. Of course, this product is not designed to remove deep scratches and swirls but it managed to thin out some minor swirl marks on the hood of my car.

The Good

The Bad

5. Liquid Glass

5. Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate

Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...

• ONE EASY STEP: Formula delivers maximum synthetic protection, durability, depth of color, and reflectivity in this easy one step
• EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Thin Film technology provides for easy application and wipe off even in full sun, and will not stain non-painted trim pieces white
• LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Advanced synthetic polymers crosslink to form a long-lasting protective barrier while amplifying reflection for incredible depth and mirror-like shine

$43.54

Buy on Amazon

2018 Update-

The Liquid Glass was a great polish but it appears to have been discontinued! For now, we’ve opted to choose the Meguiar’s as a replacement. If you ever find Liquid Glass, be sure to buy extra!

While Liquid Glass calls this product an auto polish, I find it to be more of a wax since the non-abrasive formula will not remove swirls or scratches on black paint. This is also one of my favorite waxes for black cars since it leaves behind a glossy and ultra-durable protection that repels acid rain, bird droppings, asphalt, and even rust and corrosion.

The No products found. should only be used on cleaned and prepped paint. I would use pure polish to clean the surface and apply the Liquid Glass as the final step. The results were amazing.

However, this product is not CARB-compliant since the formula contains chemicals and other additives. But if you don’t like waxing your car often, this is the perfect product for you.

The Good

The Bad

How to care for dark vehicle paint – Some Pro Tips

Swirl marks are the enemy of dark paint… Scratches re nasty, but deep swirl marks are uglier.

Swirl marks are the curse of black paint. Those nasty, ugly, and circular scratches are the reason why black paint needs to be waxed regularly. Swirl marks are caused by erroneous cleaning techniques, such as wiping the surface with a dry towel (please stop doing this!). The particles of dirt and sand on the paint will leave minuscule scratches that are more visible when the affected panel is directly exposed to the light of the sun.

This is the reason why black paint requires a good quality wax. Pure carnauba wax will help to seal the surface and make it slippery enough to repel minor surface damage. It will also make the paint glossier so you can beam proudly at your precious ride.

Before we get to the nitty and gritty of the best car wax for black cars, there are a couple of exterior vehicle cleaning tips that you need to remember. If you’ve read our best spray wax guide then you’re probably already a pro at this!

How to Maintain the Beauty and Shine of Black Paint

Before choosing among our contenders of the best wax for black paint, you will need to carefully assess the condition of your car’s black paint.

Types of Wax for Black and Dark Colored Vehicles

It is easy to get lost in the vast sea of car care products for black cars. When it comes to waxes and polishes, you are basically left with three choices:

1. Spray Wax. This is great for brand new cars or newly restored black paint. Spray waxes are also ideal for spot waxing and are convenient to use – simply spray on and wipe off. However, spray wax does not offer durable protection and are not ideal for intensive paint cleaning.
2. Paste Wax. I grew up using paste wax and this is one of the easiest to apply evenly on the paint. Paste wax is also good for spot cleaning but you will need to allow it to dry before buffing off the residue.
3. Liquid Wax. Depending on whom you’ll ask, liquid wax is reputably the easiest to apply and it dries faster than paste wax. However, I find liquid wax a bit tricky to apply evenly especially on vertical surfaces such as the doors and rear end, but the liquid consistency makes it glide smoothly over the surface with minimal effort.

Conclusion

In order to achieve a flawless shine on black paint, you will need to polish the paint and remove swirl marks before applying the best wax for black cars. Always remember to read and follow the directions on the can or bottle before proceeding to wax your beautiful black car.

-Matt

The post Top 5 Best Wax for Black Cars and Trucks ✅ Reviewed appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax: The Wax You Can Use Under the Sun!

Hey there I’m Vince. I don’t know much about politics and all this Trump vs Biden nonsense, but I know one thing…. How to take care of cars.

If you’re anything like me, you take great pride in your ride… And that means we spend our time doing profitable things like waxing our cars and trucks rather than wasting time watching CNN or Fox News.

So today I’m gonna tell you about a Meguiar’s Ultimate liquid wax review that I just finished up and you’re gonna know if you should buy this stuff or not. 

Let’s get into it… (Note: I have updated this article for 2023.  I have been using this wax on my 2010 Honda Civic about 3 times a year for the past few years. Scroll down to the bottom of the page for my long term update/review!)

Meguiar's G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 16 Fluid...

• ONE EASY STEP: Formula delivers maximum synthetic protection, durability, depth of color, and reflectivity in this easy one step
• EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Thin Film technology provides for easy application and wipe off even in full sun, and will not stain non-painted trim pieces white
• LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Advanced synthetic polymers crosslink to form a long-lasting protective barrier while amplifying reflection for incredible depth and mirror-like shine

$43.54

Buy on Amazon

What is the “ultimate” liquid wax?

Before the onslaught of polymer-based waxes and protectants, carnauba wax is the preferred choice of the discerning car owner. There is something about the natural properties of pure carnauba that gives any color of paint a deep and rich look with a gloss like no other.

Of course, the times have changed. While carnauba wax is still popular, Meguiar’s now has the Ultimate Liquid Wax that is formulated using synthetic polymers.

This stuff is claimed to outshine and outlast traditional waxes by offering unparalleled shine and durability.

One unique thing about the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax is you can apply it even if your car is parked under the hot sun! I’m not sure I’m a believer in this claim though.

Does this sound too good to be true?
Is the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax worthy of your attention?
In this review, I bought a 16 oz. bottle of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax to put it to the test during my annual ritual of car spring cleaning.

Features of the Ultimate Liquid Wax

As I previously mentioned above, the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax is formulated using the latest synthetic polymer compounds. This wax utilizes ThinFilm and Hydrophobic Polymer Technology to provide a tough barrier against UV rays, stains, and watermarks.

Yes, this product will increase the surface tension on the painted surface so you will see fewer water beads when it rains.

The water will reputedly just glide off the paint so you won’t see ugly stains on the paint when the water dries up. This is especially helpful if you happen to have a black or dark-colored car since dark paint is more prone to water stains and other surface imperfections like scratches and swirl marks.

The advanced synthetic polymer formula of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax is designed for longevity.

Meguiar’s claims that this new formula can outlast any carnauba-based wax in terms of shine and protection.

….I intend to find out if Meguiar’s is full of crap…

My Hands-On Product Review

Testing under the hot Florida sun…

While I’m not dumb enough to wax an entire car under the hot sun, I wanted to find out if the Meguiar’s ultimate can really be applied and removed easily even if the paint is hot to the touch. I applied a light coat over the trunk using small and overlapping circles to ensure even coverage.

On a moderately hot surface, this stuff immediately dried out so you don’t need to wait a couple of minutes to remove the residue. However easy it is to apply this product under the sun, I found the experience to be quite unpleasant so I decided to quit the sun test and proceeded to park the car in a shaded garage to continue the test.

Yeah… It doesn’t work under direct sunlight, unless it’s like 50 degrees outside…

Moving into the shade and applying the wax

First and foremost, I found out the Ultimate Liquid Wax works great on brand new or newly painted surfaces, especially on black or dark colored automobiles. (**We’ve been testing lots of waxes for black cars and dark colored paint, check out our latest guide)

Since this product is not designed to remove scratches and swirl marks, I believe it will only produce great results on older cars after the paint has been prepped and polished prior to the application of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax. Just make sure you wash, clay bar, and polish the paint before applying wax and you should be fine.

Read more about how to properly wax a car: Tips and tricks for car waxing

Since I’m working on an older car (a black 2010 Honda Civic), I decided to test the product on the roof before covering the entire body with the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax.

Dividing my roof into two sections to test the wax

I applied painter’s tape to divide the roof into two sections. One side will receive a single coat of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax. The other side will be treated with polish and carnauba wax. The roof of the Civic was full of light to moderate scratches and swirls so I was anxious to find out how the product will make a difference when it comes to the overall finish and shine.

This wax comes with a microfiber towel and applicator pad right out of the box. I shook the bottle vigorously and poured a small amount of the liquid wax on the applicator pad. I applied the product using small overlapping circles and allowed it to dry while I polished and waxed the other side of the roof.

The next thing I noticed about the Meguiar’s is the ease of application. This is the great thing about polymer-based waxes since they simply glide over the paint surface without exerting too much effort.

I also liked the way how the product removes easily with just a single wipe of the microfiber towel. However, don’t expect it to repair minor surface damage since it doesn’t contain abrasives to remove scratches and swirls. Like I said earlier, use some polish and maybe a clay bar depending how old your paint is.

The results are in (polish and carnauba vs Meguair’s Ultimate)…

After wiping off the haze on both sides of the roof, I took a closer look and pointed a flashlight on each side. The side treated with a separate coat of polish and carnauba wax was a bit more flawless compared to the side treated with only the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax.

I grabbed a garden hose and sprayed water over the roof. This is where the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax showed its true colors. There were fewer water beads on the side treated with the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax. The hydrophobic surface paid off since I was able to remove all the water on the roof with a single wipe of a dry chamois.

The best part? You can buff out the residue on non-painted surfaces and plastic trim with a single wipe. Try doing that with carnauba wax.

The Bottom Line

In terms of looks and depth of shine, nothing beats a paint that was treated with polish and carnuaba/brazil/palm wax.

….But when it comes to protection and ease-of use, the polymer-based abilities of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax really pulls ahead.

The biggest difference that I noticed between this synthetic wax is that it doesn’t give as deep of a shine when compared to carnuaba wax, but the paint protection that the Ultimate Wax provides is greater than carnuaba. When I waxed my car the “old fashioned” way, I can get about 2-3 months worth. But when using the Meguiar’s paste, my paint stays shining and protected for about 4-5 months.

And don’t get me wrong, just because I’m a crotchety old guy that’s stuck in my way of using my brazil wax, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy some Meguiar’s Ultimate. I had to SHINE A FLASHLIGHT on my paint to see the difference between carnuaba and this!

There’s a dang good reason that Mike included this wax in the Top 5 Best Wax for Black Cars and Trucks

Long Term Update (as of 2023)

Well, here’s a quick update for you.  After using this wax for the first time back in 2019, I was pretty impressed. So, I decided to use it on my 2010 Honda Civic once every 4 months to see what happened.  Here we are over 4 years later!  The neat thing is that it seems like each time I waxed the car, the shine got a little better. I think the wax could generally last about 6 months per application, but since I was waxing every 4 months, that did the trick.  The bottom line is this: I have used a lot of different waxes and polishes in my day. After using this wax over a dozen times in the last few years, I am a fan for life!  In my opinion, it’s hard to find a better combination of ease of use, quality of shine, and overall durability that this wax provides.

Conclusion

This is a high-quality product that has stood the test of time for me.  A little tip for you: In order to make the most of the Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax, I highly suggest that you wash and clean the paint thoroughly, use a clay bar to remove stubborn stains and apply polish before finishing off using the liquid wax. This will produce the professional results that you’re looking for, especially if you have a black or dark-colored car.

-Vince

The post Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax Review appeared first on ScannerAnswers.

I tried out the Turtle Wax Jet Black Wax kit on my Black Mazda Miata this weekend…

Coming in at number #2 in our top black car waxes is the Turtle Wax Black Box kit. Here at ScannerAnswers, Mike, Matt and I have been on a quest to find, test, and review the top waxes for dark and black paint. This weekend I got to test out Turtle Wax’s famed “jet black box wax kit” and here’s my thoughts.

I have tried dye-based waxes in the past. The experience can only be described as messy or filthy. You will get black dye all over your hands, shirt, pants, face, and even your elbows. After waxing my car, I looked like a coal miner having a bad day at the office.

This is the reason why I had my apprehensions in this Turtle Wax Black Box Kit review. I usually shy away from colorant-based waxes or polishes simply because I don’t want to throw away a brand new microfiber cloth after just one use. This is the fact you need to face when using a colored wax like the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit.

Turtle Wax T-3KT Black Box Kit

• Flash point: 67 degrees_celsius

$164.99

Buy on Amazon

Luckily for me, the kit comes with a pair of black applicator pads. The box also contains two bottles of 12 oz. black spray detailer, one 12 oz. bottle of black pre-wax cleaner, and a single 12 oz. bottle of black carnauba wax.

What really baffled me was the requirement to use the black spray detailer to wipe off the residue left behind by the pre-wax cleaner and the black carnauba wax. After allowing the pre-wax cleaner to dry, you will need to spray a light mist of the black spray detailer before wiping off the dried haze. The same rules apply to the black carnauba wax.

Sounds like a lot of work, right?

In this review of the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit, you will find out if the complete 3-step detailing process is worth the extra time and effort in restoring the beauty of your car’s black paint.

Top Product Features in the Black Box Kit

The Black Box Kit is an all-in-one solution designed exclusively for black or dark-colored cars. The exclusive tint technology utilizes unique pigments to effectively hide the scratches and swirl marks on the black paint.

With those words alone, it is easy to discern that the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit will not physically remove light scratches and swirls. The pigments in the black tint will only serve to cover up the blemishes on the surface of the paint. As the product wears off, the scratches will be visible again to the naked eye.

This kit is a good quick way to cover up swirls and scratches in your black or dark paint without having to use a DA sander, claybar, and polish.

The black carnauba wax included in the kit is formulated with black dyed pure carnauba wax to bring out the true beauty of black paint. I actually like carnauba and I still believe it is the best natural wax to treat all types of paint colors, but black carnauba wax? Is Turtle Wax serious?

Apparently, the company is dead serious about this product. In order to get a grip on the issue at hand, I purchased the kit and proceeded to follow the three-step process recommended by Turtle Wax.

I washed and shampooed my car before wiping it dry. It is a good idea to wear a pair of gloves before working with the Turtle Wax since your hands will resemble the grubby paws of Chewbacca after handling the product.

My Hands-on Review of the Turtle Wax Black Box

I decided to treat the entire hood of my black 1997 Mazda Miata. Step one was the black pre-wax cleaner. I poured a small amount on the applicator pad and worked the product using small overlapping circles. I allowed the cleaner to dry to a haze.  After spraying a light mist of the black spray detailer on the dried haze, I removed the excess using a clean microfiber towel.

At this point, the hood was looking good. I poured a small amount of the black carnauba wax on a separate applicator pad and worked the product on the entire hood.

What I really like about the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit is the ease of application. All the products are easy to apply and easy to remove, but I still wish it wasn’t as messy as I imagined.

After allowing the black carnauba wax to dry, I again grabbed the bottle of black spray detailer and lightly misted the hood before removing the excess with a clean towel.

My results were a mixed bag of emotions.

Sure, the color and the shine was definitely better after following the tedious 3-step process, but I already wasted a pair of new microfiber towels just on the hood alone. I’m not joking when I say the products are filthy to use since each step will leave your cleaning towels permanently soiled and stained.

With the Turtle Wax Black Box, you will need to treat one body panel at a time to produce great results. I sprayed a bit of water on the hood to test the water beading protection of the product, and honestly, the results were quite admirable.

However, I can still see deep scratches and swirls when viewed at an angle, although the minor swirls were covered perfectly by the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit.

If you are looking for a wax or polish that is capable of buffing out swirl marks and blemishes permanently, this is not the product for you.

I highly recommend the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit for slightly older black cars and SUVs. I don’t see any reason why you should use this on a brand new finish since the black tint infused in the product might alter the OEM black paint of your ride.

I’m still having a hard time getting my head wrapped around the idea of spraying black detailer before wiping out the haze left by the pre-wax cleaner and black carnauba wax. I previously thought the spray detailer was exclusively for spot cleaning or detailing after applying the wax. Now I know why this kit came with two bottles of the spray detailer since you will end up using a lot of it each time you decide to wax your car!

Bottom Line….

If you have an older black or dark-colored car and you want a wax and polish that is easy to apply and remove, then it wouldn’t hurt to give the Turtle Wax Black Box Kit a try.

It’s the perfect beginner-friendly kit for someone that doesn’t yet have, or want to spend the money on a proper set of claybars, buffer, polish, and wax.

As for removing scratches and swirls, I’d give it a 6 outta 10. While it’s better than just slapping on some carn wax, it’s not going to buff out scratches and marks like a claybar and polish and buffer will.

When it comes to color restoring… The results that I had on my Miata were a decent at restoring that deep “jet black” look. I’d rate it a 7/10. The colored pigment wax pretty much ruins towels and hands and anything that it touches, and I kinda think it’s marketing hype.

Overall, if you’re looking for an entry level, low priced wax for your black car or truck, I don’t think you can go wrong with this kit.

If you’ve got some extra time and money though, definitely consider just buying some polish, wax, claybar, and maybe a buffer 🙂

….Hope this helps  🙂

-Vince

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