Carnauba Car Wax
An Outdated Classic?

Carnauba car wax is probably the most popular type of car wax. This is particularly true for show car owners. But for reasons unknown it has carried over to late model car owners. But the new polymer clear coats are not well suited for these products.

Show car owners have loved Carnauba wax for ages because it gives a nice deep, wet shine. But for every day car waxing purposes, it may not be the best.

Carnauba is hard in its natural form. It is softened for use in car wax by the addition of oils and petroleum distillates. During hot weather, the carnauba can melt and become soft. At this point it has the ability to attract dust and dirt to stick to the surface. Also, when carnauba car wax is exposed to the heat and sunlight it can begin to evaporate. As this happens the wet look and shine begine to disappear. Carnauba wax will only last a maximum of 30 to 60 days.

Carnauba creates a milky film. This can lead to a white residue in cracks and scratches. It can also dull a clear coat finish. If you wax frequently, but the car is not exposed to the elements, the wax can build up and it may streak in some humid climates.

While this wax worked great on older single stage paints, it is really not well suited for the polymer clear coats of today. A polymer finish really needs a polymer sealer product for best results.

Carnauba wax will probably eventually be relegated to the show car enthusiasts that don't need a durable product. Eventually due to federal mandates to lower Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's), these products will be phased out because they will be unable to meet those requirements.


Return from Carnauba Car Wax to Wash and Wax

Return to Home Page