choodock

My car was built on 5/26. It has been baking in the Texas sun for the past couple days. How soon before I can wax it? I will be using Mothers Sealer/Glaze followed by Pure Carnauba Wax. I need some protection for the paint from fingerprints.

Paladin06

I would think now is a good time. Just make sure the surface is clean and cool to the touch.

BootCamp

Normally a curing period of 30 - 90 days is recommended before applying wax. It needs to breathe during the curing process, and waxing tends to seal the paint so it cant breathe. I would personally wait until the paint is 60 days old - to be safe.
I would definitely wash it with a mild automotive soap/car wash whenever you feel it needs it. Whatever you do, keep it out of the sun when washing or waxing or you'll get (difficult to remove on new paint) spots and swirls.

Paladin06

I think that would apply to paint of the pass but today??

BootCamp

Yeah, in the past, the paint WAS the outermost finish. Now we have clearcoat over it. While it helps protect the paint, it keeps it softer longer. The baked on enamel put on at the factory is tough stuff. But with the rapid "turnaround time" in the paint process, everything is cut right to the edge to maximize production, not to mention the "flex" additive for the molded bumpers in the paint on new cars.
Ive had paint on new cars "swirl" on me and its really hard to get out on subsequent cleanings/waxings.
I guess theres validity to both sides of this. Personally, I won't clay or wax until I've had the car for a couple of months. I guess its a personal choice.

One Percent

Dude! Hold off on the wax. My Texas Solstice is two years old, gets washed and micro fiber towel dried at least three times a month, and has never been waxed. It still has a mirror like finish and no hint of spider scratches. Paint finishes aren't the same and are a lot more tolerant these days.
The best thing for you to do is get some micro fiber cloths and consult the detailing forums. Any car forum will do, they all have hints and tips on how to take care of your finish. From polishes (NOT carnauba) to clay bars, they will steer you in the correct direction.

1971cuda convert

I would wait at least 60 days .And wash with a mild soap .We spray alot of paint and its best to give it some time before waxing .

70sguy

Budman,

Where is the budvision at tonite? Were you going to call?

04RAMSRT10

These cars can be waxed immediately. They have a baked paint finish plus it has been almost a month since it was painted by the time you get it. There may be a fraction of vapor loss left but the whole hood is covered with a decal which complete stops vapor loss.