1995 Nissan Pathfinder Exterior

CHEWY51

MEMBER
1995 NISSAN PATHFINDER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I am as writing this on the interior board because there is no exterior board.

Can someone explain wax vs clearcoat. I understand they are not a competing thing normally, but?

If you have a car that has lost its luster is it fare to say the clearcoat is gone? Many people suggest polishing compound followed by wax. Wouldnt you want to reapply a clearcoat after polishing. Many people just suggest reapplying wax.

I guess I dont understand when to apply clearcoat vs wax. Maybe if I understood how to tell if the clear coat is still there I would understand if it needs to be reapplyed.
Sand paper I assume removes it, but what about time, weather, polishing, buffing, waxing, etc

1 Reply

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello - If I understand your question.....the paint on your car is applied in several different layers. You have the primer - It levels to hide surface scratches etc. It also protects the vehicle from corrosion, bumps, stone-chips etc. It also improves the way the paint can be applied and adhere to.

Then you have the basecoat that has the visual color properties. Then the clear coat. It is shinny or glossy, transparent and a little more durable.

Now the answer - you apply clear coat like paint, unlike wax - you put on - then wipe off. To get a cleaner brighter finish you can use clay bars or rubbing compound. You just have to be very careful as definitely rubbing compound can take it to the bare metal quick if you are not careful.

A great place for some paint/waxing advice is Maguire's. These folks specialize in this and are great to talk to. I have sent them pictures before to assist.

http://www.meguiars.com/#wwVeVGrX6Rd8c7KL.97