It’s estimated that up to half of all roadside assistance callouts are the result of poor vehicle maintenance. While manufacturers and mechanics are happy to let drivers believe modern cars can’t be serviced and maintained at home, it is far from the truth. Indeed, drivers today have a lot to gain from performing routine maintenance on their own vehicles. It will help prevent many common causes of breakdowns and keep their cars looking fresh from the dealership.
Choosing the right wax
There are a wide range of waxes on the market these days, and deciding which to use can be confusing. The right wax for your car will depend heavily on your needs. For drivers who want a long-term solution they can set and forget, synthetic waxes may work best. They are durable, bonding with the paint and protecting it from the elements for up to 12 months. However, for drivers who want their car to look its best and don’t mind waxing more regularly, natural carnauba wax is ideal. The shine provided by carnauba wax is incredible, putting synthetics in the shade. There is a trade-off, however, as it needs to be reapplied every four months.
Waxing is one of the simplest ways for new drivers to step into DIY maintenance. As research has shown that an increasing number of drivers don’t know how to care for their vehicles, waxing may be the ideal way for many to make their start. There are a lot of brands out there these days, but a bit of online research will help you understand the features to look for in a wax and find the best one for your needs.
The benefits of waxing
Waxing protects your car in a number of ways. It creates a smooth, uniform surface that dirt has a hard time sticking to, making it much easier to clean. The hydrophobic nature of wax causes water to bead on its surface. The result is that it slides off easily, bringing any loosely attached dirt with it. Many cars on today’s roads have a faded, blotted look that is quite unappealing. This is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays damaging the paint over years of exposure. This is one of the most compelling arguments for regular waxing, especially for those in sunny climates. Because the damage is spread across the entire vehicle, the only remedy is an entirely fresh coat paint, something that can be quite costly.
Your car’s paint is the most obvious characteristic and the first thing a prospective buyer will notice. A well maintained exterior will give the buyer confidence in the vehicle. If you’ve maintained the paint well, chances are the internals are in good condition too. So if you have plans on selling your car at any point, definitely consider waxing to preserve its paint and increase your chances of a good sale.
With fewer drivers than ever understanding their vehicles or the value of home maintenance, waxing represents the perfect entry point for millions of people. Many are afraid to open the hood for fear of damaging something, a step that isn’t required for waxing. Rather than jump in at the deep end, waxing can get a new driver into the mindset of maintaining their vehicle and encourage them to take it further.
