Polish and Wax or just Wax?

**frank213** · 07-09-2011, 10:10 AM

Need some advice on whether or not I will need to polish and then apply wax to a new 2011 mini cooper or just apply wax? I purchased the XMT PC 7424XP light swirl remover kit with XMT #1, #2 and Finishing glaze. I also plan to use these products on my 2008 Saturn Aura, suggested pads to use would be helpful also, thanks.

**Jimmie** · 07-09-2011, 10:24 AM

Just one persons opinion, but the first time I would give it the whole process:
Wash
Clay
Polish
Protect

**silverfox** · 07-09-2011, 10:56 AM

Polish and wax.

**ScubaCougr** · 07-09-2011, 11:26 AM

Alternate view, possible heresy: Need or want?

If you check the paint and don't see cobwebs, fine scratches or other defects, polishing may not be needed. Save your clear for later. Although you may want to polish for practice, or to get that additional tiny bump in shine.

If paint is in good condition you can wash, clay and apply your glaze with the PC and a white pad which does light polishing. Brand new finish may not need more than clay and a light chemical all-in-one wax/sealant.

Try a test spot or panel, then decide.

**Dr Oldz** · 07-09-2011, 11:53 AM

Clay
Polish ( a chemical polish at the least or mechanical polish if swirled)
Wax

**fancyfootwork** · 07-09-2011, 12:41 PM

Depends on the condition of the paint. Most likely polish though. Least aggressive method first to complete the job. Then SEAL and top with a wax (if needed).

**shoeless89** · 07-11-2011, 03:55 PM

My pretty much agreeing with everyone else:

Wash
Clay
LC white pad and a probably only need a pretty light polish if its a 2011 but depends on paint.
I would use a glaze if your using wax but not if your using a sealant

**JSMet** · 07-12-2011, 06:57 AM

I like rule #62. I agree with fancyfootwork: it depends on the condition of the paint.

**Dubbin1** · 07-12-2011, 09:59 AM

If that is the WG finishing glaze you are talking about it is not a "glaze".

Mike Phillips · 07-12-2011, 11:05 AM

Originally Posted by fancyfootwork

Depends on the condition of the paint.

And your car care goals...

What is your car care goal? Or more specifically... how do you want the paint to look?

Pretty good? Or show car quality?

The condition of your finish and your goal will determine what you do and which products to use.

This is something we teach in our Detailing 101 Class. Last weekend the demo car had swirls and water spots and our goal was a show car finish, so we

Washed
Clayed
Corrected the paint - removed swirls and scratches
Polished - Maximized the gloss and clarity building off the results from the correction step
Sealed the paint

Pictures & Comments from July 9th, 2011 Saturday Detailing 101

Here's how the 1962 Cadillac looked when it arrived... completely swirled-out and full of water spots...

Here's how it looks after our students took what they learned in our Detailing 101 Class and put it into practice...

Creating a show car finish is just a matter of diagnosing the paint to determine what the problems are. Start by washing and drying the paint then feel it using the the baggie test and then inspect it visually for swirls and scratches. Then decide upon your goal and this will determine which products you'll use and then get busy...