The 15 Best Car Waxes To Buy

Waxing your car not only makes it look good but also protects against grime, bugs, pollen the sun and debris.

The following post will cover the types of car wax, the best car wax on the market and a few tips for getting the most out of it.

Types of Car Wax

There are a few different types of car wax to choose from so I will briefly touch on each type. Depending on your car type can change the car wax you should use.

There are liquid waxes, paste waxes and spray waxes. All with their own pros and cons. In terms of performance and durability liquid is the best followed by paste and spray.

Although the opposite is true for ease of application and use – spray, paste and liquid. Depending on what you are looking for will change which type you purchase.

Spray Waxes

Probably the easiest to use and apply. Simply spray the wax on and wipe off- easy to do on cars with excellent finishes.

Spray wax generally doesn’t leave marks on the plastic components of the car but also don’t tend to last as long.

Liquid Waxes

These provide a great gloss and will last quite long but require a fair bit of elbow grease to apply evenly as well as buff out.

Possibly the most difficult to use but as a result are the most durable and will give the best results.

Paste Waxes

Easier to apply then liquid but not quite as easy as spray. These types will perform well but will require some elbow grease to get a good shine.

Best Car Wax

1. CarGuys Liquid Wax

The CarGuys Liquid Wax is an ideal choice for your car to deliver quality results with a few applications per year.

Key Features

• Includes patented additives
• Easy-to-apply formula
• Effective and durable
• Nanopolymer additives
• Mirror shine effect

This liquid is probably the best you can get for your car. It is made to last with just a few buffs per year. This saves you money and time that you could spend trying to maintain a slick look on your car. The advanced patented additives boost the product protection to offer durability with less of the wax.

The formulation is super easy to use and buff to ensure you spend the shortest time possible. The light liquid makes it easy to use, buff and wipe off and in minutes, you will be done with the wax job. As much as it takes so much less of effort to use this wax, the results are exceedingly amazing.

The buff leaves your car with a shiny mirror-like finish that lasts for a long time. Your vehicle’s surface gets that reflective look that does not fade months after the application. The Nano-polymer additives in CarGuys Liquid Wax work at the molecular level to get you the shiny look in minutes.

2. Meguiar’s Ultimate Quik Wax

Spray waxes are the easiest to apply on any vehicle surface and give you an easy time getting the glow on the surface. This one from Meguiar’s is an excellent example of convenience and great results.

Key Features

• Hydrophobic Polymer Technology
• Quick, easy application
• Slick shine
• Durable finish
• Safe formulation

One of the outstanding features of this spray wax is the hydrophobic polymer technology it comes with. This feature ensures relentless water-beading protection which lasts for weeks after application. The formulation is clear and does not leave a whitish finish on some surfaces.

This means that it can be used on exterior plastic and trim pieces for the shine and smooth finish. The wax is safe to apply on all painted surfaces of course following the right procedure of application. It is useful in getting an even shine on different surfaces with just a little spray and a gentle buff.

The good thing about this wax is how easy it is to apply. A single spray on a specific area is enough to get the shine. The results are long-lasting and provide water-beading which is the ultimate goal. A little of this spray wax can go a long way.

3. Turtle Wax 1-Step Wax & Dry

If you need an economical car wax with quality results, this pack from Turtle Wax is the ideal choice. The wax comes with two bottles of wax and dry spray wax and a bonus microfiber towel.

Key Features

• Protective polymers
• Easy to apply
• Carnauba wax
• Durable

This wax is designed to help you get the smooth shine on your car’s surface with just a little of it. It is light to apply for easy use and buffs well for a sleek, shiny look. The wax is formulated with Carnauba wax and protective polymers to provide the shine and protection needed.

One of the advantages of getting this pack of wax and dry is that you get two bottles to last you a long time. One bottle can effectively wax up to 17 full-size cars. Therefore, if you are using it for a few cars, it will probably serve you a couple of months. And, you get two of those translating to more for less.

The package comes with a microfiber towel, so you do not have to stress about getting the right one for waxing. It takes a single step to apply and wax the car, and the fact that the wax comes in a spray bottle makes it easy and convenient to use.

4. Meguiar’s Black Wax

This Meguiar’s black car wax is formulated to bring about a lasting shine for dark to black painted car surfaces. Like other waxes, it is useful in providing the mirror-like effect.

Key Features

• Synthetic polymers
• Clear coat safe formula
• Specifically made for dark to black paint surfaces
• Easy and convenient application

If you are searching for a wax that is made explicitly for your black or dark painted car, then this particular one from Meguiar’s is the real deal. Its formulation takes into consideration the deep tones of dark and black painted surfaces to provide a lasting shine with an occasional application.

As you wax using this, you get the deep shine and gloss with the mirror effect. The synthetic polymers provide long-lasting protection. The clear coat safe formula brings about a smooth gloss without swirls. As long as you clean, condition and dry the car surface, the black wax will be easy to apply and get that perfectly smooth finish.

5. Optimum No Rinse Wash & Wax

This Optimum Wash and Wax is an ideal solution to help you achieve a smooth and clean finish on your car surface without having to go through multiple stages. This feature makes it a quick yet effective wax for occasional use.

Key Features

• High lubricating polymers
• No rinse wash and wax formulation
• Suitable for all vehicles
• One-step clean, wax and shine process

This wash and wax contain a blend of high lubricating polymers. These bonds to paint on surfaces while releasing dirt for a brilliant finish. The formula combines the benefits of a no-rinse solution and a shine formula to provide the slick look in only one step. This takes less time to effect, and the results are long-lasting. A little of the solution goes a long way.

This wash and wax formula makes it easy to maintain your car’s surface in the shortest time possible. If the vehicle is extremely dirty, it is advisable to wash it first in soapy water, and then use this as a finishing agent. It does not scratch the paint hence great to use on painted surfaces.

6. Meguiar’s Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Quik Wax

This spray wax from Meguiar’s is a suitable choice for lasting results. It is formulated with high-quality agents to achieve the glossy look on your car’s surface.

Key Features

• Premium Carnauba wax
• Easy application
• Clear coat safe
• No waxy residue

The formula contains premium Carnauba wax which helps to achieve maximum richness and a deep shine with a gentle buff. The solution is easy to use, and the spray bottle design makes it quick and economical to use. A single spray and soft wipe will deliver the smooth, glossy look on painted surfaces.

The clear coat safe formula is suitable to use on all glossy pain surfaces and other clear coats. It is sun-safe which deepens the tones of your car. For example, using this on your black car leaves it looking even darker and shinier than before. Additionally, the wax does not leave any residue as you wipe or swirl.

The best way to use this wax is applying using a microfiber towel which does not shed. This ensures you get a clean and smooth glossy finish. The wax has high lubricity which brings about a wet-look shine. As a spray wax, it performs exceedingly well than most others in the market which leads it to the top of the list; thanks to the Carnauba wax.

7. Griot’s Garage Spray-On Wax

Once in a while, your car needs the extra shine from existing wax. This wax from Griot’s Garage is designed to provide the gloss and depth to the paint for a pleasing look.

Key Features

• Quick waxing formulation
• Spray-on and wipe
• Residue removal properties

This spray-on wax is a perfect option to spice up the gloss of your car when you do not have the time to give your vehicle a full wax job. It is an enhancing wax that works well right after you’ve washed and rinsed your car. A light spray and gentle wipe-off using a towel are all you need to do to get the gloss after wash-day. It is easy to apply and does not affect the durability of the underlying wax.

If there are still some lodged particles after washing the car, this wax will get rid of that in the process of shining out the surface. The wax has enough lubricants to reach those areas with the towel to leave a deep gloss. In essence, this wax extends the life of your usual waxes by provides additional protection and a smooth shine on the surface.

8. Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax

Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax is a liquid car wax that is highly effective and highly popular as a result.

Key Features

• Synthetic formula for durability and excellent finish
• ThinFilm technology makes it easy to apply and remove
• Long lasting
• Hydrophobic polymer technology to increase surface tension – water will roll off
• Includes applicator pad and micro fiber towel

This formula will provide synthetic protection, improve the color of your car as well as reflectivity.

Also, due to the synthetic formula there won’t be any white residue left over on trim or plastic parts.

Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax is very easy to apply and remove thanks to the ThinFilm technology.

The hydrophobic polymer technology in the formula also forms a protective barrier meaning water beads will just roll off.

Meguiar’s G18216 Ultimate Liquid Wax can be used on all glossy paints and clear coats. This wax can be applied by hand, orbital, or a dual action polisher. 

9. Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax

Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax is a 100% carnauba based car wax and will give your paintwork a deep wet look.

Key Features

• Easy to apply and use
• Excellent surface shine and a deep wet look
• Long lasting and extremely durable
• Protects against UVA and UVA rays

Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax is a long lasting blend that is 100% carnauba based.  It is aptly named after the trademark characteristic that is melts into paintwork like butter.

This wax works well on non-textured surfaces and that includes any painted wheels, chrome bumpers, glasswork/windshield and stainless steel exhaust tips.

Due to the natural protective layer Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax will work to fight water spots, road debris and bird droppings.

Carnauba is also known as Brazil wax and palm wax and comes from the leaves of a palm grown in Brazil.  Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax uses the hard flakes of wax and refines it to a liquid.

10. Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845

Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845 is a heavy duty insulator wax that will work well to protect your car and give it that shine.

Key Features

• Carnauba based
• Easy to apply
• Clear coat safe

Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845 is easy to use, requires minimal buffing and lays down a protective coat safely.

You will need to give the bottle a really good shake before you use it as the carnauba will be settled at the bottom.

Apply an initial thin coat, let it dry and then using a micro fiber cloth remove it. This is the step that requires a bit of elbow grease.

After a week or two apply a second coat, the time between coats allows the sun to heat it up and soften it in the cracks to bond better.

If applied correctly Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845 should last 6 months before needing another coating.

This car wax has great customer reviews and surely won’t disappoint.

11. Turtle Wax T-223 Super Hard Shell Paste Wax

Turtle Wax T-223 Super Hard Shell Paste Wax is the first of the paste car waxes to make the list. This product is inexpensive and if you have the energy and power to make it work will give lasting results.

Key Features

• Leading brand in car wax
• Easy to apply and remove
• Long lasting – up to 12 months
• Protects against UV
• Safe for clear coats

Turtle Wax T-223 Super Hard Shell Paste Wax is claimed to last up to 12 months which is incredibly durable!

This wax is relatively easy to apply but can be quite difficult to take off by hand. Once you do manage to get the wax off  your car will, however, be very shiny!

Personally I think there are easier to use car waxes but if the price is right then Turtle Wax T-223 Super Hard Shell Paste Wax is a good choice.

12. Meguiar’s G18211 Ultimate Paste Wax

Meguiar’s G18211 Ultimate Paste Wax is one of the best paste waxes you can buy. This product is highly rated and really lives up to the reviews.

Key Features

• Synthetic formula for ultimate protection and durability
• Excellent depth of color and reflectivity
• ThinFilm technology for easy application and removal
• Safe for glossy paints and clear coats
• Can be applied by hand, orbital, or dual action polisher
• Includes a foam applicator and a Meguiar’s Supreme Shine Microfiber Towel

Meguiar’s G18211 Ultimate Paste Wax offers synthetic protection which improves the reflectivity, depth of color and protection all in one! This wax is also very durable and long lasting.

The synthetic polymers crosslink and form a very protective barrier which works to enhance the reflection and shine.

The key to apply Meguiar’s G18211 Ultimate Paste Wax is to do so thinly. Many people make the mistake of applying it too thick which prolongs the drying time, makes it very difficult to use and you will go through the product faster.

A good idea to test if your wax is ready to be wiped off is to swipe your finger along the wax – if it smears it’s not ready.

13. Chemical Guys Hybrid V7 High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer

Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer is powerful stuff and the first of our spray car wax products.

Key Features

• High gloss shine on any color paintwork
• Optical select clarity on virtually any exterior surface
• Rapid bond technology
• Long lasting UV protection
• Transparent polymers enhance metallic paintwork
• Makes detailing faster and easier
• Removes dirt, dust, fingerprints and water spots

Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer  is a combination of sealant and detailer which work together to produce a very high gloss shine and clarity.

This spray works to remove fingerprints, dust, road debris and protect your car. Using rapid bond technology this spray is super easy to use and can be applied to virtually any surface.

Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer can be used on glass and plastic, even textured plastic. It will also work to prevent sun staining and water spots on your car.

14. CarGuys Hybrid Wax Sealant

CarGuys Hybrid Wax Sealant is one of the most advanced spray car waxes on the market. The wax is a carnauba infused liquid and will give your car an outstanding shine.

Key Features

• Deep shine, slick surface
• Durable and long lasting 3-6months climate and washing routine dependent
• Wax, shine and sealant all in one
• Streak free formula
• Quick and easy to use
• Includes micro fibre cloth
• 100% full refund if you aren’t happy

CarGuys Hybrid Wax Sealant is an all in one wax, polish and sealant designed for long lasting effects.

This product is made with carnauba paste in liquid form and is incredibly quick and easy to use. It will leave your car looking shiny and protected for 3-6months.

CarGuys Hybrid Wax Sealant is not only limited to use on your car, this will work on interior paint, glass, plastics, chrome, rims and fibreglass! This wax will give your car the lasting UV protection as well as a hydrophobic barrier to keep the water off.

15. Turtle Wax Spray Wax

Turtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax is a popular spray car wax that is very easy to use.

Key Features

• Produces a slick, mirror like shine 
• Suitable for automotive paints, exterior plastic and rubber trim
• Produces exceptional water beading
• Contains UV protection to help prevent fading from UV rays
• Can be used on automotive glass to clean and provide water repellency
• Durable 

Turtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax is made with smart shield polymers which are designed for a lasting finish. The product is very easy to apply and remove and will leave a brilliant shine to your vehicle.

Turtle Wax are leaders in car wax products and this wax is no exception. It can be bought on its own or as a spray wax kit which comes with an applicator and microfiber towel.

Car Waxing Tips

When it comes to getting the most out of your car wax regardless of the product you buy they all require hard work, patience and time.

Also bear in mind that the high price doesn’t always translate to the better product – the more work you put in the more you will get back. Here are a few other key tips to consider.

Test the Wax

A good idea to see how your car will turn out, nothing like doing the whole car and it turning out looking worse! To do a tester is a good way to see if the product is well suited or not.

Use a Specific Cloth

Stop using old rags, rather invest in a micro-fiber rag. Rags such as terry cloth material make it considerably more difficult to get the job done. I made the switch years ago and have never looked back!

Wash your Car Thoroughly

Regularly washing your car is the most important part of protecting it. Car wax will of course provide the additional layer of protection against the sun, pollen, bugs and road debris.

Wax tends to last for around one month so add it to your washing routine.

Also keep in mind that waxes can be abrasive and can even put tiny scratches into your car.

Bottom Line

When it comes to choosing the best car wax I hope your found these reviews helpful. There are three types to choose from – liquid, paste and spray all with their own benefits. Regardless of which one you choose those recommended in this review are all excellent quality.