With so many options out there, it can be incredibly tough to pin down the best car wax for your vehicle. Your automobile is a big investment. That's why you'll want to buy the product that treats your "baby" the best — protecting it against the elements while also keeping it looking as crisp and clean as possible.
We've done our research to help you distinguish which of the best car wax options available live up to their promises and are capable of give your car or truck top-notch shine for your buck. Based on our findings, we compiled a detailed list of 12 popular brands and noted which ones we can confidently recommend.
Comparison Table
Product | Image | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Car Wax Knowledge
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1. What Is Car Wax?
2. Where Can You Buy the Best Car Wax?
How We Reviewed
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To come up with the 12 best car wax options on this list, we took into account just about all types and brands currently available. It didn't matter to us if it was a liquid, a paste or even a spray-on wax. No matter it's constitution, if it was one of the best we could find, then we listed it as one of the best. Defining characteristics of the best car waxes were ease of use, prices, degrees of protection and longevity.
Overall Price Range of the Best Car Waxes
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The best car wax options we've listed are available on Amazon. Waxes priced on the lower end of the spectrum typically are easy to apply, but don't offer as much protection or last as long compared to the more expensive alternatives.
What We Reviewed
- ONE EASY STEP: Formula delivers maximum synthetic protection, durability, depth of color, and reflectivity in this easy...
- EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Thin Film technology provides for easy application and wipe off even in full sun, and will not...
- LONG-LASTING PROTECTION: Advanced synthetic polymers crosslink to form a long-lasting protective barrier while...
Features
An extremely easy to apply liquid wax, Meguiar's Ultimate Liquid Wax offers a versatile, durable wax for any car owner.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
One of the more long-lasting options on this list, most buyers report only needing to apply one coat every 6 months.
- Super durable high gloss finish
- Will never crack, peel, chip or turn yellow
- Never has to be removed
Features
One of the most reputable and long-standing auto finishes on the market, Liquid Glass LG-100 offers an unmatched shine. However, it can be fairly difficult to obtain. That high cost possibly explains why many traditional auto part stores do not carry it.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
Liquid Glass is one of the most durable, long-lasting products on this list. Most users recommend applying the wax only two or three times within the first 9 months. From there on out, most users recommend a single yearly application to keep your car looking great!
- Deepest shine
- Non-powdering
- no white stains
Features
A paste wax, P21S' 12700W Carnauba Wax is widely known for its ease of use and crisp finish. Although slightly more expensive than some of the other best car wax options on this list, we can assure you that the price you pay is for quality.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
This is one of the longer lasting products on this list. It can last up to 6 months per application.
- 100 percent carnauba based wax
- New formulation for even easier application
- Deep wet look to any paintwork
Features
This liquid wax offers improved UV protection compared to others on the market. It's extremely easy to apply and remove, Chemical Guys Butter Wet Wax is a unique option for car owners looking for heavy UV protection.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
This wax definitely has a decreased longevity compared to others on this list. Users likely will need to re-apply it every month or two.
- PASTE WAX FOR HIGH SHINE: Luxurious blend of carnauba wax and polymers creates strong, long-lasting protection to...
- CLEAR COAT SAFE: Special blend of carnauba and protecting polymers is safe and effective on clear coats and all glossy...
- BETTER GLOW: Improved formula creates an even more brilliant shine and deeper reflections
Features
If you prefer a paste, Meguiar's has you covered with its Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Paste Wax. Even easier to use compared to the company's liquid wax, this paste offers top-shelf durability regardless of what Mother Nature throws its way.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
One of the more durable waxes, you can expect to reapply another coat of this every 3-6 months (depending upon weather.)
- SIMPLY THE BEST WATERLESS CAR WASH. Gently Cleans and Protects leaving a Non-Stick UV Protective Coating on All Vehicle...
- High performance Aircraft Quality Wax for your Car Boat & RV. ONCE YOU SEE THE DIFFERENCE YOU WILL NEVER USE AUTOMOTIVE...
- Water Based - Alcohol & Ammonia Free. Our plant based Eco friendly formula is biodegradable and Safe on ALL surfaces...
Features
No list of the best car waxes would be complete without Aero Cosmetics Wet or Waterless Car Wash Wax. Just spray it on, wipe it off and you're good to go.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
Like most spray-ons, it's easy to use. That's good, because its short longevity means you'll be reapplying frequently.
- - ONLY APPLY 1-2 TIMES A YEAR! - Are you tired of using products that look great, but don't last? You won't experience...
- - SUPER EASY TO APPLY AND BUFF! - No professional needed! See why all our customers rave at how it's so simple to use!...
- - SUPER SLICK MIRROR SHINE! - Most products nowadays will make your vehicle look pretty good. Our product will bring the...
Features
CarGuys combines ease of use with longevity to create an all-around great liquid wax. Though a bit more expensive compared to some other options, you pay for quality when it comes to this one.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
Long-lasting, meaning you'll only need to apply this wax about two times per year.
- PREMIUM CARNAUBA WAX: Highest-grade carnauba wax provides strong, long-lasting protection to clear coat and single stage...
- SHINE AND GLOSS: Creates brilliant show car shine and locks it in with an extremely durable wax barrier
- UV PROTECTION: Offers protection against the damaging effects of the sun
Features
Meguiar's has a strong product line, obviously. Its back on this list again — this time with its A2216 Deep Crystal Carnauba Wax. This product is one of the best car waxes because it is easier to use compared to other carnauba wax options and it gives your car a great shine at a reasonable price.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
While the product offers fairly strong longevity compared to other wax options, you may need to apply it more often compared to a traditional paste-based carnauba wax.
- Combines high Gloss shine and legendary durability
- Collinite #1 selling, "most talked about" Product
- Easy on, easy off application
Features
Collinite's liquid wax offers an extremely durable option, built and marketed for protection. This wax is sure to keep your car safe regardless of what the world tosses your way.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
While not the longest-lasting option, it still offers decent longevity. You can expect to reapply a new coat every 3 months.
- Perfect for all exterior surfaces including paint, clear coat, chrome, glass and plastic trim
- Extremely easy application, just spray on and buff to a brilliant shine
- No hazardous or harsh chemicals, solvents or VOCs
Features
Optimum's wax is an easy-to-use, spray-on wax at a reasonable price. Great for all surfaces, this versatile wax offers some great value.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
Surprisingly long-lasting for a spray-on, with time between reapplications lasting up to 5 months.
- Get a just waxed look quickly and easily
- Enhances existing coat of wax
- Use while drying your car after washing for quick paint enhancement and protection
Features
Griot's offers an extremely cost-effective and quality spray-on wax. The combination of cost and ease of use is what finds this product on our best car wax list.
PROS
CONS
Where to Buy
Amazon
Longevity
Not the most long-lasting option, since it needs reapplication every 2 months.
- Ultimate spray wax with hydrophobic polymer technology creates a deep wet-look shine you would normally expect from...
- With relentless water-beading protection that lasts for weeks, Ultimate Quik Wax offers Meguiar's longest-lasting...
- Safe and effective on all painted surfaces without leaving a white waxy residue on exterior plastic or trim pieces
Features
Meguiar's once again finds itself on our list, rounding out the last of the best car waxes. This Meguiar's spray wax is designed to be even easier to apply than others.
PROS
CONS
The Verdict
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With so many great options on this list, it was tough to nail down the single best car wax. That said, although it clocks in as the second most expensive option on this list, P21S' 12700W Carnauba Wax stands out among the others as being the best option for your car. When it comes to protecting your car, you can't cut corners, and this carnauba paste offers some of the best longevity, protection and ease of use on the market.
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