Knowing how to properly wax and polish your Kia is a good skill to have. It can help extend the life of your paint by ridding it of major wear and sealing your car’s pores from potential dirt and grime buildup. If you want to rejuvenate your Kia’s exterior, here are a few tips to help you get the job done right.
Which Car Wax Is Right for You?
The four main types of wax include:
- Liquid wax
- Paste wax
- Spray wax
- Wipe-on, clear paint sealant
A liquid wax works well with a buffer, while paste wax is best applied by hand. Spray wax is a popular choice if you regularly wash and wax your car, as it doesn’t require much effort or a lengthy application time. A clear paint sealant is easy to work with, too, as you only need to wipe it on and leave it to dry.
How to Wax Your Car
Always give your Kia a nice wash before waxing the exterior. Use a buffer for liquid wax and a pad or sponge for paste wax. For spray wax, apply in small areas and rub the product in using a microfiber towel. Clear paint sealants can be easily wiped on with a towel and are safe to use on different trims.
Make sure your car is completely dry, especially when using a clear sealant, and tucked away in the shade before you apply the solution. This will prevent streaking and leave you with a top coat that’s easier to buff. You can use a poly foam wax applicator to help you get thin, even coats perfect for buffing.
How to Use a Buffer
A buffer attached to a soft foam pad is a helpful tool that’s gentle enough so it won’t damage the paint but firm enough for a thorough finish.
Liquid wax and sealants should be distributed in 3-inch lines around the pad’s edge. Paste wax, on the other hand, should be spread evenly onto the pad using a putty knife. Keep the pad pressed to the paint before turning it on to prevent any splatter. A machine speed of three is best for proper application, and avoid pressing too hard or tipping the machine at an angle while it’s running.
There are two types of buffers available:
- An electric orbital buffer is a popular choice for beginners since it doesn’t require much skill to operate. However, you’ll have to put in more elbow grease to get a deep clean.
- A high-speed angle grinder with buffing wheel cleans better than an electric orbital buffer. It requires less effort but more skill and attention to get the job done right.
How Often Should You Buff or Wax Your Car?
You don’t need to buff your Kia every time you wax, but you should do so at least once a year. If you often park outside where your car is exposed to weather damage, oxidation, tree sap, and bird droppings, consider upping it to two or three times a year. When it comes to waxing, it’s recommended you do so every three months or during seasonal changes.
Knowing how to properly wax your Kia can keep it looking good for years to come!
Image via Flickr by TeddyBuddy44, used under CC BY-SA 2.0
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