Detailing - comprehensive care for the exterior and interior of the car. It is believed that this is the prerogative of professional detailing centers, "beauty salons" for cars. In the series of articles "Detailing with your own hands" we will tell you how to get a result comparable to professional detailing using high-quality automotive cosmetics.

Types of polishes. Abrasiveness and properties

Body polishes are like a good shoe polish: they not only add gloss, but also protect against environmental influences (ultraviolet radiation, precipitation and road chemicals). In addition, polishes eliminate minor body defects that accumulate over the years: risks, “spider web” of scratches, and even paint fading.

Almost all polishes act in a complex way: fighting scratches, you will also get extra shine; and by applying any protective coating, add hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties to the body. However, any polish has a primary purpose - the area where it is most effective. Our brief overview will help you choose the right polish for your needs.

Abrasive polishes

Abrasive (from the French "abrasif" - "grinding") polishes are compounds containing fine particles of high hardness. The size of these particles is called grit, according to which the abrasive is classified: from strong coarse compositions to delicate ultra-soft and hybrid ones.

Abrasive polishes are used to remove paintwork defects: scratches, scratches, stubborn stains and traces of foreign paint. The principle of action of the abrasive is the removal of a thin top layer of varnish, on which mechanical damage accumulates. Renewing the coating is similar to exfoliating old skin, but you need to be careful: polish with a large abrasive can literally wipe the varnish to the holes.

Coarse abrasive products are best left to professionals, and for self-polishing the body, we recommend the following abrasive polishes:

Liquid polish with abrasive microparticles 3 microns in size. Removes not only scratches, but also stubborn stains. Recommended for pre-treatment of heavily damaged coatings. Use with caution on dark colors.

Liquid polish with the finest abrasive - particles only 0.5-1 micron in size. Restores tarnished finishes and adds a mirror-like sheen - especially noticeable on dark vehicles. It is used for final polishing of the body before applying protective compounds, including liquid glass.

Important: after using liquid abrasive polishes, a protective compound must be applied to the body.

General purpose mild micro-abrasive compound for removing scratches when applying other coatings. The polish is available in versions for dark () and light () cars. "Light" polish contains microparticles with a size of 3 microns, while the "dark" abrasive belongs to ultrafine particles (0.8 microns) and works softer. That is why the polish must be selected strictly for the color of the car: dark colors more sensitive to abrasive compounds.

Scratch masking polishes

Whereas abrasive polishes physically remove scratches from surfaces, scratch masking polishes effectively hide them by filling them with resins. Hybrid type polishes (with ultra-fine abrasive in the composition) combine both methods of dealing with scratches: abrasive and filling. Masking polishes are easier to use than classic abrasive ones - their application does not require special skills and is safe for the paintwork.

Hybrid polish with ultra-fine abrasive in the composition. Effectively masks scratches and restores the shine of the coating. Easy to apply with the included cloth, no wiping required. Available in versions for dark () and light () cars.

Liquid polish without abrasive, applied with a sponge. The transparent synthetic resins included in the composition fill scratches and small scratches, forming an absolutely flat surface and masking body defects. Available in two versions: for dark () and for light () cars.

Color restoration polishes

Ultraviolet is the main enemy of paint. Burnout in the sun goes on daily, and even if there is not a single scratch on the body, the color that has faded from time to time immediately gives out the age of the car. Color-restoring polishes can fix this.

Liquid polish containing a color pigment that restores the brightness of factory sun-tarnished body paint. The polish is suitable for the five most common automotive colors: light pearl (), silver (), black (), blue () and red ().

Protective polishes

Protective polishes for the body can be compared with protective glass for a smartphone that keeps the screen intact. Forming an additional polymer layer on the surface, protective polishes protect the body from environmental influences: from road chemicals and acid rain to tree buds and bird droppings.

The protective layer of polish has hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties, gives the body a shine and does not allow corrosion to develop, filling small chips in the paint.

Heavy duty protective Teflon coating with fluorine-containing polymer. It has a pronounced water-repellent effect and lasts up to 12 months. Available in versions for dark () and light () cars.

Liquid version of Fusso protective polish. It is easier and faster to apply than Fusso 12 Months, but it lasts less: the effect lasts up to 7 months. It is available in versions for dark () and light () cars, as well as in a universal version for all colors ().

Protective "five-minute" Fusso in the form of a spray, which can be applied immediately after washing the body, without even wiping it dry. Does not require any preparation for application. Can be used as a standalone product or to update previously applied Fusso formulations. Universal polish for all colors. Valid up to 3 months.

Coating with outstanding performance. Creates a polymer "armor" on the surface, resistant to aggressive environmental factors, which protects the body up to 12 months after application. It has strong protective, antistatic and hydrophobic properties: neither water nor dust lingers on the body. Also gives the car a pronounced shine and radiance. Requires careful preliminary preparation of the body.

Super versatile protective compound that is suitable for all colors and types of surface: can be applied to metal, plastic, as well as to the body treated with liquid glass. It creates a durable water and dirt-repellent layer, and the silicone that is part of the product fills all minor defects in the body, protecting it from corrosion. Valid up to 4 months. You can apply the product both on dry and wet body.

Classic protective polish based on carnauba wax. It has a good water-repellent effect, lasts for a month. Available in versions for dark () and light () cars.

Water repellent polishes

Most protective polishes effectively repel water, but special water-repellent compounds have a hydrophobic effect built into the absolute. This is a smart choice if rainfall is regular and not very clear in your area.

Polish with unsurpassed water-repellent properties. Valid for up to 4 months, leaving no chance for water to gain a foothold on the body. Available in versions for dark () and light () cars.

Gloss polishes

Despite all the useful qualities of polishes (scratch masking, protective properties, water and dirt repellency), most motorists use them for the sake of appearance. Special polishes for shine give the body a maximum gloss. Get ready for the incredible mirror effect: in sunny weather, you will have to look at the car with dark glasses!

The ease of use of this liquid product (it does not require polishing or wiping) is combined with versatility: it can be applied to the body, and to the optics, and to wheel disks Everything will shine! It also gives the surface antistatic properties that last up to an impressive 9 months. Available in versions for dark () and light () cars.

100% carnauba wax - a classic recipe for pure and deep shine! Universal polish for all colors. Can be applied to wet body. Valid up to 4 months. An excellent choice for regular maintenance of expensive cars.

Universal polish. Gives shine and water-repellent effect, prolongs the action of Fusso protective compositions, does not require thorough wiping of the body from moisture before application. Valid up to 3 months.

Protective covering . Creates a durable protective layer, suitable for machines treated with liquid glass, can be applied both to dry and wet bodies. Valid up to 4 months.

Liquid wax. Provides a mirror shine and color depth, suitable for cars treated with liquid glass, economically consumed, applied to a dry body. Valid up to 1 month.

Water-repellent polish Glaco Ultra 120ml. Application:For car glass.Characteristics: Glaco Ultra polish has a strong water-repellent effect. Glaco is very handy for highway driving. Glaco provides excellent visibility also during fog and snow. Glaco not only has a water-repellent effect, but also prevents glass from getting dirty. It can be applied not only to the windshield, but also to the rear, side windows, Side mirror and a mirror rear view. At a speed of 45-65 km / h, you can not use the wipers. Rain and frost do not freeze to glass. Valid for 1-2 months. During this time, the product provides a degreasing effect. Improved packaging for faster and easier application of the polish. The wider sponge allows the polish to be applied faster, and the application process becomes easier and more enjoyable. How to use: Clean the glass from dust and dirt. Water-repellent polish is recommended to be applied after washing the car. Unscrew the bottle cap to reveal the polishing surface. Slightly tilt the vial until liquid appears in the central hole. In order not to spill the polish, quickly apply the bottle with a sponge to the glass, quickly apply the product. It is necessary to apply 2-3 layers of polish, carefully rubbing so that no drops appear. If you accidentally apply too much liquid and drops appear, do not leave them on the glass for a long time. After 5-10 minutes, wipe the glass with a thoroughly wrung out towel. If the water-repellent effect is weak, then turn on the wipers to the maximum frequency, and then apply a water-repellent polish. Thus, the protective shell will become more reliable. After treatment with a water-repellent polish, avoid using strong glass degreasers. Use clean water or Glaco water-repellent glass cleaner to clean glass. Precautions: Use only as directed. Not suitable for transparent plastic and plexiglass. Do not apply to heated glass. It is not recommended to use it when there is a large difference in t outside and inside the car, as in this case the glass may become covered with a whitish coating. Do not apply to inside glass. After finishing work, close the bottle. People with weak, diseased skin, as well as those suffering from allergies, need to use gloves when using the product. Moving against the sun or when leaving the tunnel into bright light, the glass may become covered with a whitish coating. In this case, turn on the wipers to open the view. Keep away from children. Flammable. If the product gets into your eyes, rinse them with water for 15 minutes, do not blink. Contact your doctor. In case of contact with skin, wash contact area with soap and water. Contact your doctor. If swallowed, induce vomiting and seek medical advice immediately. Storage: Close lid tightly. Do not store in places exposed to sunlight, and in places with temperatures above 40C, as well as in places with high humidity. Composition: Silicone, acids, alcohol. Shelf life: Good for 4 years.

* Water-repellent and highly resistant impermeable fluorocarbon polymers, which are part of the polish, create an extremely durable film on the surface of the car that protects against aggressive environmental influences: acid precipitation, ultraviolet rays, catalyst exhausts, insect residues, road plaque, acid and alkaline reagents, as well as bird droppings.
* Creates a mirror-smooth surface with minimal friction and low electrostatic coefficient, which does not allow water or dust to linger on the surface of the car.
* EFFECTIVE ACTION OF COMPOSITION - 9 MONTHS!!! (confirmed by special tests).
* APPLICATION:
1. Wash your car thoroughly. Wipe the surface dry.
2. Shake the vial thoroughly.
3. in a circular motion Apply a small amount to a small area using the included applicator.
4. Wait for the complete drying of the composition on the surface.
5. Use a soft, clean cotton cloth to polish the surface to a shine. Repeat steps 3-5 for the next section.
Note: The components of the polish are easily separated into their constituent layers during storage - shake the bottle thoroughly before use. Store the bottle tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
Ingredients: hydrocarbon components, fluorocarbon polymer, inorganic powder, carnauba wax, silicone oil, water.
ATTENTION:
Do not work in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces. Avoid freezing.
Use only in well ventilated areas. Keep away from children.
In case of contact with eyes, rinse gently.

Additional Information

• ID: 1829
• Article: Vodoottalkivayuschaya polirol
• Warranty: 1 year
• Place of production: Japan
• Manufacturer: Taiho

Warranty

Warranty policy for Moscow and St. Petersburg:

1. Each product has its own guarantee period. If the warranty period is not set by the manufacturer, then the warranty period of the goods is 6 months from the date of sale.

2. The return period for any product is fourteen (14) days after the purchase.

3. All warranty and post-warranty maintenance of goods is carried out by specialized authorized service centers of manufacturers that have the appropriate authority to do so.

4. If this product does not provide for a special warranty center, the buyer has the right to return the product to the seller.

5. Return of goods is made to the address: Moscow, m. Kozhukhovskaya, st. Yuzhnoportovaya 7, building M, office 208.

6. Calling a courier is a separate service. The client can call a courier to return or exchange the goods, but in this case the client pays for the delivery service.

If you have any questions, we are waiting for your calls on the phone numbers listed at the top of the site.

Reliably protects the body of the car from the effects of harmful external factors - ultraviolet radiation (burnout in the sun), dirty stains, traces of bird droppings, scratches, chemicals that are sprinkled on roads in winter. There are two main types of car body polishes - professional and for general use. The latter, in turn, are divided into wax-based products and those based on synthetic polymers. Professional (often they use the definition of "nano") differ in the time of action. They can be in the form of "" and ceramic.

Polishes for widespread use can be applied independently, and the price of this tool rarely exceeds the value of 2 thousand rubles. However, their disadvantage is a short period of action, as well as low mechanical resistance and protection. As for professional tools, depending on the brand, their cost can reach up to 50 thousand rubles, and they are applied only in service centers . Their advantages are a long service life (often the warranty is up to 5 years), as well as reliable protection of the body from all kinds of external influences.

General information

Regardless of the types, the functions of any polish (whether professional or for general use) are almost the same. They consist in protecting the car body from the following harmful factors:

• ultraviolet(bright sunlight, due to which the body loses its original color over the years, that is, it fades);
• chemical reagents on roads (relevant for winter time, when road services sprinkle the road surface special composition, which not only corrodes ice on the roads, but also negatively affects the surface of the car body, another harmful factor in the warm season -);
• dirt and stains(the composition does not allow them to be deeply absorbed into the body, so the stains are subsequently much easier to wash without damaging the paintwork);
• mechanical damage(for example, blows of branches when driving in a forest, possible scratches due to slight contact with foreign objects on the body, and so on).

As mentioned above, professional polishes cope with the tasks assigned to them much more effectively and last longer, but such preparations are much more expensive. In addition, they can only be applied in service centers. This is due to the fact that such a procedure requires special equipment, proper surface preparation, as well as personnel familiar with the relevant technology.

As for car body polishes that can be applied independently, they are divided into three types - with natural wax, based on synthetic polishes and a mixture of natural and synthetic components. Without going into details, it should be noted that the first type is not so popular, because it has lower operational characteristics. The second type is the best in this class, as it reliably protects the body and lasts longer than the others (up to 12 months). As for mixed compositions, they have average characteristics.

Synthetic polishes for the car body can be identified, including by smell. The more distinct the smell of petroleum products comes from the product, the greater the likelihood that it is made on the basis of synthetic materials. An exception may be Carnauba polishes, which do not have specific odors, but are created on a synthetic basis.

Polishes for are also based on nanotechnology. These include "Tartle Wax" and "Runway". The smaller the particles of the substance, the better they interact with the paintwork, and last longer. However, often the prefix "nano" is nothing more than a marketing ploy of various manufacturers.

Choosing a Good Polish

When choosing one or another tool, it is impossible to accurately answer the question of what are the best polishes for a car body. This is the wrong question. The fact is that polish is chosen largely for specific purposes. For example, some protect better from stains and dirt, others from ultraviolet radiation, and others are universal.

Protective polishes for the body are divided by state of aggregation. On sale there are three such types - in solid (pasty), liquid states and in the form of a cream. Their actions are almost the same. However, it should be noted that solid products last longer (approximately 20...30 treatments), and a tube of liquid body polish is enough for only 5...6 treatments. True liquid means is cheaper.

Another subspecies of manual polishes for the body is protective equipment for new paintwork. An example of such a composition is Doctor Wax. It is applied to the surface of the body upon purchase. new car(or after painting the body). There are also polishes with water-repellent effect. An example is Soft99. There are also so-called abrasive polishes, the purpose of which is to get rid of scratches. However, this is a specific tool that can be used infrequently on older bodies.

Restorative polish must be used at least twice a year (depending on the validity period of the selected product), and preventive polish - once every six months.

When choosing a polish, you must first start from car age. In addition, you need to decide what you want to achieve - body protection, scratch removal or rich color. As a rule, the purpose of the product is indicated on its packaging or in the instructions for use. Before you buy a body polish, be sure to read this information.

Rating of the best body polishes

We present to your attention the rating of manual polishes for the body, popular among domestic car owners. The list was compiled in accordance with the availability of goods in stores (including online stores), user reviews on the Internet, as well as tests that can also be found on the Internet. We hope that the information provided will help you make your choice. If you have your own experience with such tools or your own thoughts, we invite you to describe about them below in the discussion of the article. This will help other car owners.

The American 3M tool is produced on a synthetic basis (synthetic wax) and is one of the most popular and sought after for manual body polishing. The main advantage of the polish is that it forms a thick protective layer that reliably protects the paintwork, including from small scratches, pebbles flying out from under the wheels, abrasive dust, and so on. It also perfectly protects the surface from ultraviolet radiation, moisture and chemical reagents.

It has a pleasant smell, and it is rubbed into the surface of the paintwork quite softly and quickly. Polishing time is 10...15 minutes. At the final stage of polishing, it is recommended to treat the surface with microfiber. Important! There is a warning on the packaging that the substance is explosive in dry form, therefore, firstly, carefully unscrew the cap, and secondly, keep it away from sources of open flame!

Sold in a 473 ml can. The article is 39030. The price as of the spring of 2018 is about 900 rubles.

This is a polish with Teflon, which provides reliable protection of the body from the above harmful factors - mechanical damage, moisture, ultraviolet radiation, dirt, chemical compounds, and so on. The advantage of this drug is its long-term protection - the manufacturer guarantees a validity period of 12 months.

Teflon polish Tartle Wax is very easy to apply to the car body. A 300 ml can is enough for 2...3 body treatments with a conventional passenger car. Application is carried out in three stages. The first is applying to the surface and rubbing until a matte color appears. and in the second and third stages, after the composition has dried, polishing is performed with a cotton rag or microfiber.

Packed in 300 ml bottles. Article - FG6509. The price is around 300 rubles.

The product is based on carnauba wax (carnauba wax is a wax from the leaves of palm trees growing in South America, has the ability to “tighten” scratches on the paintwork of the car) and teflon. The undoubted advantage of a liquid preparation is its long duration and reliability. The polish can be used on any car bodies. Does not contain abrasive compounds. Reliably protects the car body from water drips formed after rain or washing, sunburn, chemical reagents, mechanical damage.

A feature of Carnauba polish is the fact that the car body must not only be thoroughly washed and dried, but also not allowed to be applied to the warm surface of the body. Therefore, you need to work in a closed and cool room (garage, sink, box, and so on).

Packed in bottles of 250 ml, article - RW2502. The price of one copy is 200 rubles.

It is positioned as a Japanese car body polish with high water-repellent properties due to wax. In the jar, it has a fairly high density, so before applying the product to the surface, it is recommended to moisten the working sponge with water and only then apply polish to it. At the first stage, a white film forms on the surface of the body, which subsequently needs to be rubbed with microfiber.

According to the test results, Soft99 wax polish showed satisfactory results. The surface of the paintwork has acquired a more saturated color, and small scratches are no longer visible. As for the drops of water, on the treated surface they gather in the correct shape and easily roll off the body. Therefore, Soft99 Water Block polish can be fully recommended for wide use as a masking of scratches and water protection.

A feature is its more successful use on dark paintwork. Service life of a covering - till 90 days. A jar is enough for approximately 20-30 coatings (depending on the intensity of use and the size of the car body). It is sold in a package of 200 ml. Article - 429. Package price - 1600 rubles.

Another polish from the Japanese manufacturer Soft99. It is positioned as a semi-professional product, protection for dark cars. The validity of the polish is from 6 to 12 months. One jar is enough for applying to the body up to 25 times. Very effectively protects the case not only from moisture and mud stains, but also from tar and insects.

Apply Soft99 Fusso Coat 12 Month fluorocarbon resin only to cold body surfaces. After application, you need to wait for the first layer to dry (about 5 minutes in summer and up to 15 minutes in winter), and only then polish with microfiber (do not use cheap microfiber). After application, it is recommended to carry out a two-phase wash approximately once a week. If the appearance of the body deteriorates, it is enough to wash it with shampoo from static pollution, after which the polish will be restored. Tests have shown that the polish perfectly masks small scratches, induces color saturation, and increases the water-repellent (hydrophobic) effect.

Packing volume - 200 ml. Its article number is 300. The price is 1500 rubles.

Positioned as a synthetic polish with Brazilian carnauba wax. Differs in very soft consistence and a sponge of an original convenient form. Before using it, the surface must be moistened with a sponge surface. Application takes place according to a standard algorithm. With the help of the said sponge, the agent is applied to the surface in sections of the body, after which it is polished with microfiber.

However, the effect of using this polish is weak. The effectiveness of the application is seen only in an increase in the saturation of the body color. Small scratches on the body could not be masked, they remained visible. Therefore, Nanox Carnauba is more suitable for new cars that do not yet have scratches on the body. As for the hydrophobic effect, it is quite good.

The volume of the jar is 227 ml. Article - NX8305. Price - 700 rubles.

It is positioned as a professional protective nano polish for the car body. Distinctive feature of this tool is that it is created using nanotechnology and operates at the molecular level. Although by and large, this word is nothing more than publicity stunt. The basis, like many others, is natural carnauba wax. However, the composition of the polish includes really high-quality components from natural palm wax and polishing agents. In addition, there are no abrasives in the hard paste.

Runway Pro Nano Wax can be used on dark and light surfaces. Despite the manufacturer's claims, actual tests showed that there were no significant changes in color depth and saturation. Instead, some brilliance and specularity appeared. Doesn't cover up scratches either. As for the water and dirt repellent effect, it is really on top. The declared validity of the polish is up to 8 months, but according to the test results, it turned out that no more than 6.

You can buy in iron jars with a volume of 300 ml. Article - RW6134. Price - 700 rubles.

This polish is sold in the state of an emulsion with undissolved particles. A liquid emulsion is applied to the car body with a rag and rubbed. Since a lot of liquid is absorbed into the rag, an overrun of the product is obtained, although not very large. As for the masking properties, they are at an average level. The same can be said about the water-repellent effect. That is, in fact, as the manufacturer writes - “protects from the deposition of dust and moisture, facilitates easy removal of dirt.”.

Shell Wax Polish can be used on colored and varnished surfaces, with any type of paint and surface treatment. As for the duration of the drug, it lasts for 2-3 months, after which it is necessary to repeat the treatment. Given the low price of the polish, it can be recommended to owners of budget cars.

The volume of the bottle in which the product is sold is 0.5 liters. Article - AC32J. Its price is 150 rubles.

A very original car polish with a tinting effect. Its feature is a cleansing and color masking effect. Thanks to this effect, the polish practically merges with the original paintwork, harmoniously complementing it. Also, the tool enhances color reproduction and hides possible defects on the car body. And the pigment composition aligns the reflective plane.

Colored car body polish is available in eight basic colors, the kit includes a pencil, thanks to which you can manually sketch even the most complex and deep scratches. The treated surface will not only look good, but will also be reliably protected from corrosion for a long time. The effectiveness of filling damage directly depends on the depth and duration of the origin. However, polishing in several cycles increases the effect.

Packed in bottles of 0.5 liters. Article - FG4997. Price - 600 rubles.

American Doctor Wax (Carnauba Cleaner Wax) paste-like polish with wax is positioned by the manufacturer as a cleansing polish for new coatings. It is distinguished by its original packaging, which, in addition to the sponge, also includes a polishing cloth. The consistency is more liquid than other similar products. It is believed that the tool is better suited for metallic paint. The product is applied in the same way, in two layers. Polishing should be done after the first layer has dried, after 5-10 minutes.

After polishing, it does not leave streaks, but after rain, a light dusty coating appears, which is removed with a napkin. When performing real tests, the tool showed that small scratches on the body of a car that is no longer new remain noticeable. As for the water repellent, it also leaves much to be desired. However, for the treatment of new machines, polish can be used quite successfully.

The volume of the jar is 227 ml. Article - DW8203. Price - 600 rubles. For old bodies there is a separate tool in this series with the corresponding part number DW8207. Its price and volume are similar.

How to apply polish

Comparative polish test

The exact instructions for applying the polish to the car body are given or on the body of its packaging or in the attached instructions. Therefore, before use, be sure to read the relevant information and follow these recommendations. However, in most cases, the algorithm for using polishes is the same and consists in applying them to the washed dry surface of the body and further polishing with rags, sponges or special polishing pads. There are several typical recommendations:

• it is necessary to polish the damaged areas of the body to the state of similar areas with a factory coating;
• it is necessary to apply the polish in parts (by sections), otherwise it will dry quickly (especially at temperatures from +20°C and above, the lower allowable is +15°C);
• it is necessary to work indoors or under a canopy, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight;
• when polishing, you do not need to press the rag excessively, instead, you need to withstand the temporary mode;
• do not use power tools when polishing, unless this is directly indicated in the instructions;
• after application can not be brought to dusty drying;
• carry out work in special closed clothing.

These simple rules will help you properly perform the work of applying polish to the body of your car.

Instead of an afterword

Any polish will protect the body of your car from harmful external factors, as well as keep it beautiful. appearance. This applies not only to new, but also to medium-aged and even old cars. But in the first case, it is possible to preserve the original appearance for as long as possible, and in the second, to mask possible minor defects or problems with painting. In any case, the polish will not be superfluous for any car.

As for the choice of one or another product, firstly, buy solid or creamy polishes, and secondly, do not buy frankly cheap products or natural-based polishes, but only synthetic ones. Hard polishes will last for a much larger number of car washes. And even though such funds are more expensive, the savings will be due to the duration of use.