Spray wax may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to a car’s paint protection. Even the most ardent car cleaning fan will admit that the idea of continuously cleaning your car can be tiresome. Cars are dirt magnets if you drive them every day, but happily, there are ways around it.
That’s why protective coatings like waxes and paint sealants are so popular. They’re relatively easy ways of preserving your car’s cleanliness and providing a little extra protection against water, contaminants and UV rays. In short, it’s well worth applying some to your car next time to clean it.
There are a number of ways to provide this protection from car wax products. From old-fashioned tins to novel sealants applied via pressure washer, each of which comes with its ups and downs. As a rule of thumb, the quicker and easier the application the less durable the product will be.
The best spray wax at a glance:
Editor’s pick: Auto Finesse Glisten – Buy from Amazon
Best budget spray wax: Armor All Speed Wax Spray-On Detailer – Buy from Amazon
Best for beginners: Autoglym Rapid Aqua Wax – Buy from Amazon
Spray-on examples of car waxes are the most convenient and therefore often the least durable. They require nothing more than a light buff with a microfibre towel. Which is easy compared to the more complex process required with liquid and paste waxes. Modern, hybrid spray-on waxes however can outlast liquid or paste options. This is a key reason why you should take a look at these outstanding spray waxes. Or if you’re feeling really thorough, you can read more about ceramic coating products.
The best spray wax for your car
Editor's pick
Auto Finesse compares Glisten to a quick detailer with added wax protection, which means that looks are at the forefront of its purpose. It contains solvents designed to smooth imperfections in a car’s bodywork, working alongside the waxes to deliver a deep mirror-like shine that can’t be matched by more durable waxes.
Pros
- Produces an excellent shine
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not very durable
Best spray wax for beginners
It’s a carnauba-based wax which means that durability won’t be as long as other options here. It does however leave a gorgeous shine on paintwork and it can be used to protect glass, rubber and metal without leaving any waxy residue, perfect for a beginner.
Pros
- Perfect for a beginner
- Leaves a nice shine
Cons
- Not very durable
Best budget spray wax
Like all spray waxes, it’s simple to apply, binding to both wet and dry paintwork and offering protection with some additional shine. The year-long durability is a little optimistic, but it should last a reasonably long time before reapplication is required.
Pros
- Durable
- Good value
Cons
- We don't recommend you leave your wax layer for a year
Best ceramic spray wax
Rrp: £22.87
Rrp: £22.87
The ceramic (Si02) technology forms an extraordinarily tough layer of protection over the bodywork which should last longer than a traditional paste wax while being simply sprayed on and wiped away. There may be a price premium to pay for all this, but the water beading you’ll see will make it all worth it.
Pros
- Outstanding protection
- Leaves a deep-painted gloss
Cons
- Ceramic spray wax won't be for everyone
Best graphene spray wax
What’s so impressive about this graphene spray wax is the fact it’s genuinely easy to use. It’s entirely safe to apply in direct sunlight and requires no buffing or waiting around. 303 Products claim it’ll last 12 months between coatings too, leaving a deep gloss behind and making the car easier to clean.
Pros
- Excellent durability
- Super easy application
Cons
- Long-term effectiveness of graphene is still to be decided
Best budget spray wax
It helps restore water beading and enriches the colour of your car. It can even be used on glass, which is especially handy when you're doing some quick detailing after pulling up to a car meet.
Pros
- Versatile
- Very good value
Cons
- Some reviewers found it hard to polish off
Things to remember about car spray wax
The first thing to take into account is that it’s generally recommended to use spray wax in shaded areas and when the vehicle is dry. Most products can be applied in direct sunlight and whilst the car is wet. When it comes to protecting the underneath of your car, underseal products should only be applied once prep has been made.
But for the best results, you really should apply wax, spray or otherwise, out of the sun and on a dry vehicle. This is purely because if a car’s surface is too hot, the wax is at risk of drying too quickly before you have the chance to finish applying it properly. This translates to a pretty rough-looking section of bodywork if you’re unlucky. This is something to think about when perhaps you want to display your classic car at a show during the summer. And luckily, some waxes are designed with older paintwork types in mind. Read our guide to the best classic car waxes.
The next important thing about spray wax is how often you should apply it. A general rule of thumb is that if you’re not spotting any water beading, then it’s time to apply. Adding a layer of wax, whether it’s budget wax or premium, to your bodywork encourages water beading as well as protecting and enriching your car’s paintwork. Some manufacturers will recommend that you apply wax on your car at least twice a year. But you should always check the instructions as some waxes can only last for up to six weeks.
Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. A veteran car cleaner; if it details, waxes or washes he’ll be on hand to make sure it’s worth your money.
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