As a polish: testing body paint care products

The appearance of the car creates an impression of the driver. Car polishes will help maintain an attractive original appearance. Car polish will protect the paintwork from minor damage, increase color saturation and depth, and also help restore the coating. Today, many compounds have been developed for polishing the body, interior and headlights. Car body polish can improve the appearance of both used and new cars.

Polish-wax for car body “Veslee”

Car polishes: types

The most important step in improving the design of a car is the selection of car polishes. There are several main groups of substances. If incorrectly determined, the product may cause damage or be short-lived. Before choosing a car polish for a car body, it is better to decide on the desired group of substances.

Main types of car polish:

• with abrasive particles;
• with wax;
• made from synthetic components.

Abrasive polishes for cars

A polish with abrasive substances is effective in removing scratches and dirt. More often, organic substances are added to the composition: chalk, clay, and in more expensive products - marble powder. This variety is applicable for cars that urgently need polishing, removal of numerous scratches, stubborn stains, etc. After treatment, it is possible to restore a presentable appearance even with serious dirt.

Compound - abrasive polish (250g)

During polishing with abrasive, it is important to be careful, since the essence of the method is to remove a small surface layer of varnish and form a perfectly smooth surface. If you overdo it, there is a risk of damaging the paintwork with further corrosion. After sanding is completed, it is recommended to coat the body with additional compounds for protection.

Wax polishes for car body

Substance for the body with wax is the most popular product, since after processing an additional film is formed, giving protection, high-quality shine and bright colors. An additional advantage of the polish is its low cost.

The disadvantage of the composition is the short-term effect, only 1-2 weeks. Almost all the shine of the car is washed off with the first wash. If you buy an expensive and high-quality product, the effect can last up to 3 car wash procedures.

RunWay Nano Wax body polish

Synthetic car polishes

In the group of products made from synthetic components, there are a number of subspecies. Depending on the main materials there are:

• cleaners-regenerators. The composition contains auxiliary chemical compounds that will help remove the previous layer of enamel, small scratches and oxidized paint particles (lead to deterioration of the body color). The variety is suitable for processing metallic and classic enamel. After using reducing cleaners, it is recommended to apply an auto-protective layer, otherwise the paint will oxidize within 2 weeks;
• polymer. They are the most popular products in the group of synthetic polishes. Key advantages of the compositions: effective protection of the body from mechanical damage, protection from the adhesion of droppings, salt, and ultraviolet radiation. After treatment, a long-lasting shine is formed, usually lasting up to 2 months with regular cleaning of the machine. The disadvantages include the high cost of the product and the complexity of the polishing process;
• silicone - similar in properties to the wax group, as they are applied quickly, but also last a short time.

Useful video

Check out more information about car polishes in the video below:

Any polish will give the body paintwork freshness, the colors will regain their saturation, and small scratches that were “planted” during the operation of the car will disappear. In addition, the top layer of the “native” paintwork will be protected from external influences. We recommend reading the instructions for each specific product. After all, through ignorance, you can ruin the paintwork of the body.
This is especially true when using an abrasive polish and a special grinding machine. The car body begins to become covered with scratches and abrasions. And the paintwork fades due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation and deteriorates under the influence of special chemicals...” />

In what forms are polishes sold?

Considering polishes, in terms of release form, they are divided into:

• liquid formulations. The main disadvantage is the high consumption of the substance, since the liquid spreads and does not allow the product to be applied in a thick layer. The high cost of the composition repels many car owners. If the choice falls on a liquid form, it is better to prefer formulations with a high concentration of silicone;

Protective body polish STP CAR WAX Liquid 450ml

• hard polishes. They have the best reviews in a professional environment. Many experts note the solid form as the most effective and easiest to apply in a thick layer. The product promotes high-quality shine and color saturation. Polishing car bodies will take a lot of time;
• creamy substances. The key advantage is the reasonable price and the ability to apply at home. The composition may contain wax and silicone at the same time. The product provides high-quality results, the car will get the best shine. The cream helps polish the body relatively quickly. Creating a thick layer will not be difficult;
• aerosol cans. They are applied especially quickly, which has won the hearts of car enthusiasts. Choosing a car polish in the form of an aerosol is a complex process, since you will definitely need to study the composition. There are many products on the market that are of little use. Aerosols with a large amount of silicone are recommended, otherwise the resulting shine will quickly be washed away by rain or the first car wash.

Rating of car polishes 2021

In everyday life and garage conditions, manual polishing is mainly used, that is, car polish is applied, and then rubbed with special rags, rags or sponges. Sanders are used less often. At the same time, it is difficult to say unequivocally which paste or aerosol is better.

For convenience, the rating was divided into 3 categories. Namely:

• abrasive-restorative;
• wax;
• synthetic.

These are the types of tools that are used everywhere. This can be either manual or machine polishing for cars. And the consumer himself will decide which polish will be better.

The current task is to show the most popular, popular and proven effective car body polishes of different categories.

The best polish for car body

Turtle Wax Original FG6507

If we consider which is the best polish for a car body based on reviews and reputation, the choice will definitely fall on Turtle Wax. The leading position in the title of best polishes for car body is occupied by wax polishing with proven quality.

Turtle Wax Original FG6507

The product contains microscopic parts of kaolin, which provides abrasive cleaning, is gentle on the paintwork and eliminates various scratches. The substance eliminates oxidation and paint contamination, even combats caustic chemicals. At the end of the procedure, a high-quality protective layer with shine appears.

Advantages of body polish:

• forms a reliable protective layer, it lasts 2-3 weeks;
• eliminates corrosion;
• inexpensive (350 rubles per bottle);
• the quality of the product has been time-tested by the experience of thousands of car owners;
• Effectively removes dirt and restores the coating on wheel covers and light alloy wheels.

The only downside is that one treatment takes the entire bottle.

Wax polish Turtle Wax Original

LIQUI MOLY 7644

The body polish is based on wax of plant origin, polymers and silicones - these are the main substances from different groups of car polishes. Provides protection from the destructive effects of the external environment and prevents the consequences of frequent cleaning of the machine. Effectively fights various stains and prevents the adhesion of new stains. Suitable for hand application and polishing with a sander. Interacts well with all types of varnish. If applied regularly, the product protects paintwork from oxidation.

Advantages:

• ease of application;
• helps to level the varnish layer;
• creates a “deep shine” effect;
• the composition does not contain aromatic hydrocarbons;
• Suitable for processing with polishing tools.

The wax is quite good, but should be chosen for use on a new car as it will make little difference to the appearance of worn paintwork. Price – 420 rubles.

LIQUI MOLY 7644

Doctor Wax 8307

The cheapest of the presented car body protection products is 290 rubles. Produced by an American brand in paste form. Effectively removes minor abrasions, scratches and risks on the body. If you polish the body with this paste, even a used car will get its original shine. Often used when preparing a car for sale. The paste brings quick results, which is why it is often used in small workshops.

Advantages of the composition:

• removes various contaminants, including stubborn oil stains;
• prevents corrosion by creating a surface film on the paintwork;
• effectively removes small scratches if they only affect the varnish layer;
• helps eliminate the oxidized layer of paintwork, stubborn marks and pigmentation of paint areas.

The disadvantage is the need for additional products, especially abrasive paste.

Polish Doctor Wax 8307

POLIROL

Either time has accelerated the pace, or we really carried out the last examination of polishes a long time ago, but almost a dozen years have passed since then. The material with the cheerful title “Cats to Envy” (ZR, 2005, No. 7) talked about testing the professional suitability of polishes for new coatings - we carried out the experiment in the laboratory of a specialized research institute. We decided to return to the topic from a slightly different angle. This time we selected universal products for testing that any “nerd” can use independently, without the use of any special equipment.

Why is body paint polished? Polishing refreshes the appearance, masks minor scratches, and protects the varnish from reagents. Dirt is washed off more easily from a polished body, which means the water consumption for washing is reduced.

They decided to conduct the experiments on the hood of a new car - the varnish layer of which was covered with small scratches, causing it to lose its original shine.

The hood is pre-washed with shampoo and wiped. We remove large traces of bitumen and all kinds of dirt residues with white spirit. It is advisable to remove small, faint traces of bitumen and sticky dirt, which can be felt by running your palm over the body, with abrasive clay (this is a thick mass similar to plasticine, sold in auto parts stores): we wet the surface and run a piece of clay over it - the effect is impressive. Afterwards we wipe with a damp suede cloth. That's it, the surface is ready for polishing.

Apply the preparation to a sponge and spread it over the surface. We wait until the polish begins to dry and rub it with a microfiber cloth. Rags, rags and old towels are “removed from the field” without talking: we don’t need new scratches.

The contents of 14 cute bottle jars were assessed for ease of application, ease of rubbing and visual shine. In addition, we took note of the so-called hydrophobization - the non-wetting of the treated surface (the higher it is, the faster the water droplets will roll off, taking with them dust and other dirt). And in between times they looked at the price tags: the spread turned out to be thirteen-fold!

The overall impression of the drugs is rather positive. Each polish honestly tried to refresh the appearance, give the surface shine and smoothness.

The samples are arranged in alphabetical order. We liked the Italian product MA-FRA more than others, as well as the “Americans” - Meguiar's and 3M. But the Italian polish was still recognized as the “best”: it is easy to apply, does not dry out quickly, which is convenient when polishing large surfaces, and is effective on both dark and light paint. And the price is reasonable.

We wish you good luck in putting the gloss on!

The best polish for automotive plastics

NANOX 8344

Plastic polish is manufactured using innovative technologies. The composition contains nanocomponents that can penetrate deeply into the relief of the material and level it. It is the best choice for car head optics. Improves the transparency of the plastic surface and restores the spread of the light beam. The product removes minor damage and stubborn dust. No deficiencies were found. Price – 470 rubles.

Pros:

• versatility of the substance - can be used for any plastic elements of the machine;
• belongs to the premium segment auto cosmetics;
• increases the strength and correct distribution of the light flux;
• is a high-quality prevention of clouding and yellowing of the lens;
• includes surfactants.

Polish for transparent plastic NANOX 8344

Meguiars G-12310

The product is intended for polishing transparent plastic. It is made in the form of a gel. It is effective against dust, dirt and shallow scratches. Autopolish removes traces of oxidation and chemical deformation. It is distinguished by the creation of a film that prevents moisture penetration. The composition does not contain any chemical solvents that can cause damage to paintwork.

The main advantages include:

• ease of application and processing;
• creates noticeable shine and restores surface transparency;
• Suitable for both hard and soft plastics;
• eliminates minor scratches;
• durable coating, it lasts for 3 months.

The disadvantage is the high cost, 700 rubles.

Meguiar's Clear Plastic Surface Cleaner and Polisher

Doctor Wax DW 5219

It is a good substance for restoration work with plastic, which updates the design and appearance of bumpers, interior panels and moldings. Even with one-time use, it is possible to create a protective film of polymer. Contains active components to improve the visual effect and create a dirt-repellent layer.

Main advantages:

• prevents the appearance of a greasy film;
• creates a water-repellent layer;
• protects against the creation of static charge;
• effective even after a single application;
• Ideal for pre-sale preparation and restoration.

The downside is the inconvenient cap, due to which you have to press hard on the bottle. Cost – 450 rubles.

Doctor Wax DW 5219

The best polish for car glass

Hi-Gear HG5640

Glass polish consists of polymers that form a thin film without greasy residue to protect the surface. The wettability of car polish is 2-3 times less compared to glass. Even when driving at high speed, dirt and water fly off the glass, leaving the material clean and transparent. As an added bonus, the product is suitable for treating glasses and glasses.

Pros:

• provides the ability to drive with inactive wipers;
• prevents the accumulation of ice and dirt on the glass;
• improves driver visibility during periods of the day with limited visibility;
• eliminates contamination from the surface and from microscopic cracks and scratches;
• low cost - 280 rubles.

Disadvantage: strong alcohol smell.

Glass protection polish Hi-Gear HG5640

SONAX 273141

Specialized composition for processing windshields and door glasses. It has effective protective properties. The product is based on ceroxide and provides chemical and mechanical removal of contaminants. For use exclusively on natural glass. Does not create discomfort during application.

Main advantages:

• removes small scratches;
• fights clouding and burning of material;
• creates a smooth surface.

Flaws:

• high price - 880 rubles per tube;
• inconvenient packaging.

Glass polish SONAX 273141

Which polish to choose?

There are several ways to choose a car polish for a car body. The most effective: focus on the composition, test results, take into account the purpose of the product.

Key rules:

• mode of application. Today, many professional and semi-professional substances have been developed. If you plan to process at home, you should check the possibility of manual application of the composition;
• Expected Result. The final effect is always taken into account: gloss, quality of surface leveling, durability, layer thickness. In each composition the emphasis is shifted to one side, it is better to immediately decide on your preference;
• processed material. The choice is between plastic, paintwork and glass.

For a black car

Black color is very delicate and capricious.
Special polishes make it easier to care for. It is worth noting that all types of polishes are suitable for bodies painted black. But still, there are special polishes on the market that are designed specifically for black cars. Such protective pastes can give the car body the effects of acrylic, pearlescent, metallic or even diamond paint.

So how to choose a polish “for yourself”?

Selecting a car polish is quite simple, but you must first determine the condition of the element and the desired result. It will not remove severe scratches from the body, but it will help cope with small and medium abrasions.

If the car is practically new and has been in use for less than 3 years, it is not recommended to use abrasive polishes, otherwise damage to the paintwork will occur. If the coating has numerous cracks, be sure to apply a protective layer of polish.

Abrasive polishes for cars

The word abrasive itself means that it contains hard small particles. If you use such a polish, it will remove a thin layer of paint. I personally would not use this type of polish. If the car is really old and you don’t mind it, then you can use it.

And if you use it on new cars, the body primer may be affected, which will significantly accelerate the corrosion (destruction) of the metal. If cracks are found on the paintwork, the car body should be cleaned and anti-corrosion treated.

This abrasive polish is used to remove chips and cracks in paint.

Recommendations

In conclusion, here are some useful tips:

• The interior needs polishing less often, as it is less susceptible to wear. Car panel polish should protect against excessive heat, burnout, and damage from tobacco smoke;
• Polishing headlights at home should be carried out only after careful preparation: pasting the adjacent area, removing scuffs, cleaning the garage from dust. Plak, a budget-friendly and easy-to-apply polish, is often used;
• varnish for headlights after polishing is a mandatory measure for better protection and long-term preservation of the result.

The polish helps prevent paint deterioration and increases the life of the car without repainting. Regular use of polish will create a presentable appearance even for used cars.

Who might be interested in polishes?

These products have both adherents and those who consider car cosmetics a waste of time and money. The latter can be understood, because body protection creates a short-lived effect, and those substances that are firmly fixed to the surface, when they lose their properties, begin to peel off, spoiling the appearance of the car.

Adherents of avopolishes explain the need to use these products for the following reasons:

1. Preserve the paintwork of a car purchased long ago as much as possible;
2. Prevent the destruction of paintwork as a result of exposure to various chemicals;
3. The unstable layer facilitates the process of cleaning the body from adhering dirt, bitumen or insects;
4. Protection from moisture on damaged surfaces;

5. Improves the antistatic properties of transport - less dust collects on the car and it does not receive an electric shock when the driver or passengers get out of it.