We spent 23 hours on research, videography, and editing, to review the top choices for this wiki. Whether you just shelled out for your dream whip or simply adore your prized hatchback, you know how important it is to maintain the appearance of your vehicle. The elements won’t always be kind to your car, so keep things looking immaculate with one of the polishes on this list. We’ve selected formulas that combat oxidation and scratches, and will prolong the life of your gleaming paint job. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to support our work.
10. Turtle Wax Color Magic
The darkly tinted Turtle Wax Color Magic uses its proprietary technology to remove ingrained grime and fill in minor blemishes on any vehicle with black paintwork. It not only cleans your ride, but gives it lasting protection and a bold, lustrous shine.
- Ideal for those who go off-roading
- Won’t streak or smudge
- Doesn’t last very long
| Brand | Turtle Wax |
|---|---|
| Model | T-374KTR |
| Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Rating | 3.6 / 5.0 |
9. Menzerna CGW
Formulated to simplify the lengthy process of maintaining and protecting your vehicle’s brilliance, Menzerna CGW is a versatile all-in-one solution that swiftly smooths and seals any areas with clouding, swirls or streaks, plus it’s silicone-free and body shop safe.
- Good option for first-time owners
- Wipes off easily
- Leaves behind a thin film
| Brand | Menzerna |
|---|---|
| Model | pending |
| Weight | 2.3 pounds |
| Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 |
8. Chemical Guys Optical
You can use the water-based Chemical Guys Optical to remove spots, holograms, and oxidation from both clear coats and single stage finishes. The two-step process permanently eliminates defects without filling them in, resulting in a shiny, uniform appearance.
- Offers extended protection
- Includes cutting and final polishes
- Require a rotary or da machine
| Brand | Chemical Guys |
|---|---|
| Model | GAP_VKIT_101 |
| Weight | 2.5 pounds |
| Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 |
7. Meguiar’s Compound
Meguiar’s Compound was created specifically to be applied by hand, making it perfect for those who take pride in maintaining their vehicles at home. It’s safe and effective for all clear coats and glossy paints, but be sure not to use it on satin, matte or flat finishes.
- Restores hazy exteriors
- Helpful for minor scuffs
- Not a pure polish
| Brand | Meguiar’s |
|---|---|
| Model | G18116 |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Rating | 3.8 / 5.0 |
6. Mothers Pure
You only need to use Mothers Pure once or twice a year to enhance your whip’s shine and remove any deep grazes or scrapes. Plus, it will smooth out the edges of the largest imperfections, making them less evident while you’re waiting for professional restoration.
- Repairs micro scratches
- Offers trouble-free removal
- Some users find it too mild
| Brand | Mothers |
|---|---|
| Model | 07100 |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Rating | 4.0 / 5.0 |
5. Adam’s Detail Spray
Adam’s Detail Spray is safe to use on chrome, trim, and glass in addition to paint, so it’s a valuable concoction to have around. It can be administered via light misting and only needs to be gently toweled off, resulting in a lasting shine and a layer of protection.
- Suitable for interior surfaces too
- Quick-drying agents
- Won’t take care of deep abrasions
| Brand | Adam’s Polishes |
|---|---|
| Model | DS2-16 |
| Weight | 1.3 pounds |
| Rating | 4.4 / 5.0 |
4. Nu Finish Liquid
One of the few products of its kind that doesn’t contain wax, Nu Finish Liquid can be applied in direct sunlight, which gives it an edge over some of its competitors. It’s lightweight and requires no buffing or rubbing, but can get hazy if you leave it on too long.
- Great value for the money
- Works on motorcycles and boats too
- Strong odor isn’t for everyone
| Brand | Nu Finish |
|---|---|
| Model | NF-76 |
| Weight | 10.4 ounces |
| Rating | 4.2 / 5.0 |
3. Meguiar’s Ultimate
Meguiar’s Ultimate works to prepare your ride for a thorough waxing by using conditioning oils to restore its depth of color and eliminate fine nicks and scrapes. This powerful glaze will have your finish looking bright enough for the showroom floor with minimal effort.
- Especially well-suited to dark paint
- Can be applied by hand
- Safe for clear coats
| Brand | Meguiar’s |
|---|---|
| Model | G19216 |
| Weight | 16 ounces |
| Rating | 4.6 / 5.0 |
2. Flitz Maximum Strength
Flitz Maximum Strength is an eco-friendly paste developed to tackle a wide variety of surfaces on your vehicle, from fiberglass and metal to plastic. So after you take care of any pesky scratches, you can move on to buffing those cloudy headlights.
- Lasts for up to six months
- Nonflammable and nontoxic
- A little goes a long way
| Brand | Flitz |
|---|---|
| Model | BU 03515 |
| Weight | 7.2 ounces |
| Rating | 4.6 / 5.0 |
1. HD Speed All-Natural
Made in the United States, HD Speed All-Natural is a powerful all-in-one correction formula that not only remedies moderate surface imperfections and swirls, it also leaves a long-lasting wax sealant behind to protect your paintwork over time.
- Produces a deep high-gloss finish
- Pleasing grape scent
- Excellent for restoration projects
| Brand | HD High Definition Car |
|---|---|
| Model | HD-SPEED-32 |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5.0 |