Most people like to see their car clean and shiny, but few people have the time to spend hours detailing it. That’s why they turn to spray waxes which provide a good value and take a fraction of the time to apply versus a deep waxing. The trouble is that consumers often don’t know how to find the best spray wax for cars.
That’s why we’ve put together this easy-to-follow spray car wax review guide.
Top 10 Spray Wax for Cars Products
After a careful review of everything that’s on the market, we feel confident in recommending these ten spray waxes for cars. Any of these will help to keep your paint looking its best.
While this isn’t your typical spray on and wipe off application, it needed to make our list. If you haven’t clayed your vehicle, it’s time you gave it a try. This spray wax contains carnauba wax that’s heat-resistant for a long-lasting, brilliant shine. You can apply it to your dry or wet surfaces for added paint protection.
After application, you’ll be in awe at the glass-like appearance to your paint. You could also use it on the glass, plastic trim, and rubber for more protection. While the trigger design makes it easy to spray on, you’ll want to buff your vehicle surface for the best shine.
Make sure you don’t leave this sit on the car for too long without wiping off or you’ll end up with some streaking. The bottle comes in just one size, but Amazon sells it in bulk if you find yourself in love with the product.
With the CarGuys wax sealant, you have a nice combination between a carnauba wax plus advanced polymers for a long-lasting, durable shine. For the best results, you’ll want to apply it right after washing the car, especially while your paint is wet. If you notice any streaking, then try drying the vehicle first, as normal.
This wax comes complete with a detailing microfiber cloth which makes the process even easier. With the hydrophobic finish, you’ll notice water beading which ensures your paint remains clean even after the strongest rains.
You can apply it to any surface without worrying about residue or white streaking. It’s even ideal for using on your truck, motorcycle, and RV. The molecular nano formula brings out superior reflection and shine which makes this a great product if you’re heading to the local car show. It shouldn’t take you more than 15 minutes to apply, so you don’t need to invest lots of time.
It does come in two sizes, but the price is a little high. We still recommend giving it a shot. Even if you don’t like the results, the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose.
Turtle Wax is a common name for anyone looking to clean or detail their car without spending a lot of money. What makes this product stand out is that you can apply it to rubber trim and plastic surfaces as well as your paint. There’s no issue with using it on your auto glass as well and saving money by not purchasing a separate cleaner.
This spray wax for cars is formulated with the company’s Smart Shield Technology. This builds up a layer of protection and shine with every application. Because they use some advanced polymers to provide this shine, you also end up with all-weather protection. If you have minor scratches or swirl marks, this protect also fills them in for a superior finish.
The company does recommend using it after every wash if you want the best results. The best part is that you don’t need to buff it to make it work. There are several purchasing options; one with a kit that provides a microfiber cloth and foam applicator for just a couple bucks more.
While Turtle Wax is a common name with car cleaning products, it’s important to take note that some customers aren’t fond of the smell. In addition, it could produce light streaks, especially on darker colors.
4. Chemical Guys WAC_808_16 Hybrid V7 Optical Select High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer
Because we’re big fans of Chemical Guys, we were excited about this sealant and quick detailer they offer. Not only does it deliver a superior, long-lasting shine, but it virtually disappears on your car’s surface to give you a streak-free gloss.
Because they’ve designed it to work on a Nano-spec level, it instantly bonds to your painted surfaces. That’s why you’re left with a high-shine, superior slick finish when you’re done. You could also use it on your alloy wheels and glass, which isn’t something most products can boast.
We love how easy it is to apply; simple enough for even a novice to do. With just a couple of sprays, you’ll quickly refresh your roof, trunk, and hood. While it can be used on any painted surface, we don’t recommend it for an oxidized or overly dirty vehicle. This just leaves you with streaks, especially on a dark-colored surface. It is, however, great for new paint and it gives your surfaces a newly waxed, durable protection.
You’ll find that it’s available in multiple sizes, so you can purchase just what you need. On the other hand, it is a little pricey, but it’s a leader in the market.
5. Meguiar's Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Quik Wax
If you’re going to use a spray wax for cars, we highly recommend picking one that contains some carnauba for your best results. That’s what we love about this spray wax from Meguiar’s. As with all of their products, you can ensure a quality finish without a lot of effort. You’ll notice a deep, glossy shine with a single application of this paint protector.
What makes this formulation different than a lot of others is that you could apply it on a hot, sunny day without issues. There’s less streaking and it cleans up quick. You also don’t need to worry about any leftover white residue if you use it on trim and plastic elements.
Just mist the spray on and then wipe it clean with your microfiber towel. We recommend using other Meguiar’s products with it for the ultimate clean. For the best results, you’ll want to apply just a section at a time. With the superior water beading protection, you’ll have everything you need between your deep waxing jobs. Surprisingly, the cost is also quite low, but there’s only one size bottle available.
If you are faithful about washing your car, this wax will work perfectly between those washes. Simply apply it every couple of weeks for superior protection. Just like the other options, you spray it on and wipe it off; it doesn’t get much easier than that.
The combination formula incorporates carnauba wax for a sleek, shiny finish that keeps your car looking new. We highly recommend using this in conjunction with your regular wax to take things up a notch. Used properly, it will protect your vehicle from dirt, elements, sun, or contaminants to help your paint job last longer.
Compared to many other options, this spray wax for cars is a little pricey, but there are some huge bottle sizes which make it the perfect choice if you plan to use it often.
With this spray, you can expect a shiny finish for weeks, in between your washings. It’s ideal for getting out those small blemishes or smudges which often show up in a car’s finish. The application is simple and can be done with a wet or dry surface. Use it in conjunction with your existing wax for a heightened appearance or by itself.
We recommend this spray wax for cars that have a clear coat or gloss paint for best results. With a spray like this, you can apply it to the entire car, or just spot clean areas as needed; it’s completely versatile. When you use it, make sure you apply a good amount of pressure so you aren’t left with small stroke marks or streaks.
While most Mothers products tend to be on the more expensive side compared to other products, this one isn’t bad at all. In fact, it’s perfectly priced for anyone looking to maintain a budget while driving a car that looks like you have a million bucks.
This spray wax for cars gives you a hydrophobic, resilient coat that lasts for up to a few weeks. This easy to use spray wax only takes minutes to apply and can be done by anyone. Once you’ve sprayed it on, all that’s left is a quick wiping with a microfiber cloth and you’ll have a quick shine.
With the extra protection you receive during inclement weather, you won’t need to worry about dirt or grime scratching your paint’s surface. There’s also no white residue left behind, even on trim and plastic surfaces.
We don’t recommend using this spray while you’re in direct sunlight or a warm environment as it could smear. For the price, you really can’t beat it though if you need something quick and easy to bring out the shine of your car’s paint. Unfortunately, it does only come in one size bottle, which is a bummer.
Ending out our list is this budget-friendly option from Turtle Wax. This isn’t your high end, top of the line product but will do if you need adequate protection for cheap. This coat will last you a couple of weeks if you aren’t exposed to heavy rains.
With the simple to use spray wax for cars, it only takes a few minutes to apply and wipe off with your microfiber cloth. Plus, the combination of protective polymers and carnauba wax, allows you to achieve the shine you’ve been dreaming of. With complete protection against contaminants and debris, you’ll know that your paint is protected.
On top of that, this formula also offers some UV protection as well. There are also several different kits available for purchase, one of which includes a car wash and a microfiber cloth.
This spray wax for cars is one of the most long-lasting on the market. The company claims that it protects for up to five months, and while we don’t think that’s necessarily true, it does last longer than most. Not only that, but it’s also easy to apply. All you have to do is spray it on and then wipe it down with a clean microfiber cloth.
What’s special about this formulation is that there are no solvents, VOC’s, or harmful chemicals which makes it completely safe to use. With the mixture of polymer sealant and carnauba wax, your car is left with a glossy, clean finish.
Feel free to use it on your glass surfaces, plastic trim, and chrome as well for a multi-purpose application. With this spray, you have superior protection against road grime, bird waste, acid rain, pollutants, contaminants, and UV rays. Just don’t forget to rub in thoroughly or you’ll be left with some spots that aren’t so desirable.
You are going to pay a little more to use this sprax wax for cars. However, there are multiple size options so you can choose the best deal for you.
My Take on Spray Wax for Cars
I know that lots of people won’t agree with me on this, but I’m not a big fan of spray wax for cars. They aren’t durable like carnauba wax and they don’t provide the best protection. I would much rather see consumers use one of the best car paint protection products.
However, I’m also a realist and I know that most people don’t want to take the time to care for their vehicle to that level. Spray waxes are a great way to touch-up the car between your in-depth waxing or polishing times.
On the other hand, spray waxes are ideal for new paint. These don’t require swirl removal or intensive care. Spraying on a wax makes it simple to keep your paint job looking new.
With that said, if you need to restore your color depth, you’ll want something heavy-duty and a spray type won’t cut it. It also isn’t likely to remove swirl marks, dead insects, asphalt, tar, or scratches.
Steps to Apply Spray Wax for Cars
After you’ve chosen your wax, follow the steps from the manufacturer for best results. Most of them look something like this:
1 – Wash your car. Spray off all the dirt prior to washing it with soap. Utilize a microfiber mitt to avoid scratches. It’s best to wash your vehicle once a week to maintain a clean car.
2 – Rinse and dry. Using a microfiber cloth, remove all the excess water off your paint. Once the car is dry, you’ll want to scrutinize it. Take your hands and run it over the trunk, roof, and hood. It should feel smooth. If it doesn’t, you’ll want to wax the paint. If you have mild oxidation or dull spots on your paint, you will do best to polish it prior to waxing.
3 – Apply your polish or wax. We recommend using something with carnauba wax. You could apply it with your hands or make the job easier with an orbital buffer.
This should be all you need to do. Apply the spray wax in between your regular polishing or waxing to preserve the paint surface. If you apply it every time you wash your car, you shouldn’t need to polish it as often. While you can use the spray wax every week, you shouldn’t need to polish or deep wax the car for a few months.
Benefits of Using Spray Wax
A spray wax for cars is just a liquid car wax. Many of them contain some of the same ingredients that your traditional wax would. With a spray wax, you can achieve some UV protection and a sleek shine. They might not last as long as your carnauba waxes, but they do have some of their own benefits.
The biggest advantage is simplicity. Spray waxes allow you to take care of your vehicle easily and quickly. The maintenance required is minimal and you can enjoy a small touch-up any time without investing a lot of time.
Because they’re easy to apply, they are also ideal for beginners. It shouldn’t take anyone more than 15 minutes to use a spray wax over the entire surface of a vehicle. You aren’t required to buff it if you don’t want to.
In addition, most spray waxes come without harsh chemicals, which many people like. You don’t have to worry about damaging your paint job if you apply it too often.
Using the best spray wax for cars allows you to maintain your carnauba waxing. While you should take the time every few months to do a proper waxing job, your spray waxes are ideal for the in-between times. After each car wash, applying these sprays prolongs your deep waxing job to protect the paint further. Simply spray on the wax and achieve a new-car look every time.
Brian Jones spent over 30-years at various dealerships as an ASE Certified Master Tech. These days he works with those dealerships to create quality automotive content while spending more time with his family near Dallas, TX. In his spare time, you'll still find him playing with tools, cars, and many other "manly" gadgets. Brian's passions include traveling, pickup trucks, and anything related to motorsports.
