Hey all,

I have a quick question. So I'm at Autozone looking to buy wax, and I see a bottle of Meguiar's detailing spray. I'm just wondering, is the detailing spray the same thing as wax in a bottle? If it's not, do I first use the detailing spray on my car, then wax? Or should I wax first then use the detailing spray? Thanks.

 

Depends on the Spray wax your comparing it to as well. Generally speaking, no. Detail sprays contain lubricating agents to safely assist in removing light debris from the painted surface. Spray waxes (quality ones, as sold on Exceldetail.com!) do also, but to a lesser degree. Keep in mind, they both have specific purposes. Detail sprays remove light dust and debris, and provide minimal (7-10 days) protection/slickness. Spray waxes, (again, quality ones) will withstand 4-6 maybe 8 weeks of the elements, and provide the same slickness.
Always use Spray Waxes on clean surfaces. Detailers can have a slightly dusty surface, although cleaner is obviously better. Alot of people tend to use detail sprays for "cleaning" when in actuality they should be used for GLOSS ENHANCEMENT and slickness!

 

I think this is a common misconception.

 

Thanks for the info guys!

So then...should I first use the spray wax on the car, then the detailer? Since the detail spray only lasts 7-10 days, so once it wears off, there's the wax layer underneath.

 

You should have a quality base coat of protection to build off of. Something along the lines of Four Star Ult Paint Protectant. This is an excellent protectant! Then you can alternate using detail sprays and spray waxes to maintain and/or protect that base coats protection.
Spray waxes and the liquid/cream waxes(sealants) are as different to each other as detail sprays are to spray waxes.

 

sleepinxlionhart - I'm with Pat's recommendations above ^ I went to Four Star Ultimate Paint Protectant wax / sealant about 1.5 years ago and haven't looked back. It's a great product and easy to work with. For my spray wax, I personally prefer Duragloss 951 Aquawax and then for my detail spray, I like Optimum IDGE (Instant Detailer & Gloss Enhancer). I've heard good things about the Four Stay spray wax too.

 

i have been using 4 star upp for the last 6 monts or soo, and soon as i get my order from excel i will be using 4 star spray every month to maintain that insane slickness that comes with upp...

 

See you at the mailbox Saturday!!

 

+1 For the Four Star UPP. I use that as my 'base' after the full on detail, and after weekly washes I add a coat of Optimum IDGE...

My two favorite products....

 

saaaaweeeeettttt....i need the new mitt to wash my car this weekend....plus, i might just hit it with the 4star spray even though i just detailed the car last weekend....

 

Cant think of a better time to use it then!

 

I need that 4star kit.

Out of my budget right now but I got my lazers set on it.