Fundamentals of Vehicle Care
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How should a vehicle generally be washed?
A vehicle should always be washed gently and with sufficient water to avoid scratches and damage to the paint surface.
Throughout the entire wash process, the paintwork must remain wet at all times. Dry or only slightly damp surfaces significantly increase the risk of micro-scratches. Coarse dirt should be removed before the actual wash, as sand and dust otherwise act like abrasives.
A careful vehicle wash is the foundation of all further care and serves not only appearance, but the long-term protection of surfaces.
You can find detailed step-by-step instructions in our vehicle wash tutorials.
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Is it allowed to wash or care for a car in direct sunlight?
A car should not be washed or cared for in direct sunlight, as water and cleaning products dry too quickly on hot paintwork.
This leads to water spots, streaks, and uneven results. At the same time, care products cannot develop their full effect because they cannot be processed evenly. In some cases, this can permanently damage sensitive surfaces.
For clean and material-friendly results, vehicle washing and care should always be carried out in the shade or on completely cooled surfaces.
Further instructions can be found in our vehicle wash tutorials.
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How often should a vehicle be washed and cared for?
How often you should wash your vehicle depends on how it is used, the weather and where it is parked.
Regular care protects the paint and surfaces from long-term environmental influences such as dirt, salt and UV exposure. Vehicle care is therefore not just a cosmetic measure but an important part of preserving the value of your car. Consistent care is especially critical in summer and winter to prevent damage in time.
A well-cared-for vehicle requires less intensive corrective work in the long run.
You will find all products for car washing in our Wash collection.
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How do I remove insect residues from car paint?
Insect residue should always be softened first before it is removed.
To do this, soak a clean Swissvax cloth in lukewarm water and place it on the affected area for about five minutes. The softened residue can then be gently removed with Swissvax Car Bath and a Micro-Wash.
Insect residue must not be rubbed off. Insect sponges or similar aids should not be used, as they can cause micro-scratches in the paint finish.
Waxes, sealants and gloss
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About Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax has been used for glossy surfaces since the 19th century. However, pure, untreated Carnauba wax has one decisive disadvantage: it has little mechanical resistance and can be removed relatively easily. This is exactly where the particular quality of Swissvax formulations comes in.
The secret of the exceptional durability of Swissvax Carnauba waxes lies in the composition. Pure Carnauba wax is specifically combined with further waxes, fruit oils and natural components. This mixture is processed in a controlled, multi-hour production process carried out exclusively by hand. The result is a wax formulation that is significantly more durable than pure Carnauba wax while preserving the distinctive deep gloss.
To this day, the waxes are handmade and filled tin by tin. Due to the complex composition, these formulations are not suitable for industrial mass production. The biological raw materials used also ensure that the waxes leave no white residue on rubber seals, plastic parts or body edges.
A 200 ml tin is enough for up to 15 applications when used correctly. A clean and prepared paint surface is the prerequisite for a perfect result. That is why the paint must always be cleaned with Cleaner Fluid Regular before waxing, so the Carnauba wax can bond optimally and fully develop its protective effect.
Discover our complete wax collection. For optimal adhesion always prepare the paint with Cleaner Fluid Regular.
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Wax or Ceramic Coating – What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?
Wax and ceramic sealant pursue two different protection concepts and are not directly comparable.
A ceramic sealant offers, above all, very high hydrophobicity, i.e. strong beading behaviour of water and dirt. It forms a long-lasting, resistant protective layer on the paint surface. However, this layer is permanent and affects further care. Application is more complex and involves greater risk, as mistakes cannot easily be corrected. Ceramic is not scratch-proof, but it is more resistant than wax. Scratches that occur cannot simply be polished out. When repainting, the ceramic has to be re-applied, which can result in differences compared with already-sealed areas. In addition, the care level slowly decreases over time.
A Swissvax Carnauba wax does not achieve the extreme hydrophobicity of a ceramic, but it is clearly ahead in terms of gloss, wet look and application. Depending on the Carnauba content, different gloss characters can be achieved. Application is simple and works even without prior experience. Wax can be re-applied at any time, also specifically on heavily stressed or repainted areas. The care level therefore stays constant, as individual zones can be renewed at any time.
Ceramic and wax are therefore two different systems. If you choose a ceramic sealant, the top layer should also be ceramic, so as not to compromise hydrophobicity and hardness. If you choose Carnauba wax, the top layer should also remain Carnauba, otherwise the typical wet-look gloss and the pleasant insensitivity to water drops are lost.
Combinations
Wax on ceramic is possible but lasts significantly shorter, typically a maximum of around two months.
Ceramic on wax works technically, as the chemistry of the ceramic partially dissolves the wax.The recommended solution for the combination of the highest gloss and high hydrophobicity is a high-quality Carnauba wax combined with Swissvax KERAMIQ9, the water-based ceramic sealant from Swissvax.
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Does a second layer of wax make sense?
Yes. A second layer of wax is beneficial and reinforces the existing seal. The additional application increases the thickness of the protective layer, which has two effects: light refraction on the paint surface is intensified, making the gloss appear deeper, while the durability of the protection is increased at the same time.
At least three hours should be allowed between the first and second wax layer. During this time, the first layer can fully bond with the paint surface. Only then should the second layer be applied to optimally build up the protective effect. -
What is PTFE?
PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene. It is a synthetic high-performance polymer from the group of paraffinic polymers in which hydrogen atoms are partially or completely replaced by fluorine. This chemical structure gives PTFE exceptional material properties.
The original PTFE resin was developed in 1938 by DuPont and became known under the brand name Teflon. PTFE is characterised by extremely high resistance to chemicals and one of the lowest coefficients of friction of any known material.
Because of these properties, PTFE has a strong dirt-repellent effect, reduces adhesion and friction and provides a very durable protective film. This is why PTFE is used specifically in vehicle care, for example in wheel sealants, to significantly reduce the adhesion of brake dust, dirt and salt.
Swissvax uses PTFE, among other products, in Autobahn wheel wax and in Shield Carnauba wax. See all PTFE waxes at a glance.
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Should I apply Lotos Speed after waxing?
Yes. Swissvax Lotos Speed can be applied on top of an existing wax sealant. This makes the surface even more water-repellent and extends the durability of the protective layer.
At least three hours should pass between waxing and applying Lotos Speed. During this time, the wax can fully bond with the paint surface. Only then does Lotos Speed achieve the intended additional protection.
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What is the gloss level of KERAMIQ9 without pretreatment with Cleaner Fluid and wax?
Swissvax KERAMIQ9 does not change the level of gloss. The sealant goes on transparent without adding additional colour depth or gloss. This is why KERAMIQ9 is also suitable for matte paint and matte wraps, where the original level of gloss must remain unchanged.
Gloss is fundamentally created through reflection and saturation. Neither factor is produced by the ceramic sealant itself, but by a surface that has been perfectly prepared beforehand. An intensive paint correction with Cleaner Fluid and subsequent waxing increases gloss and colour depth. KERAMIQ9 preserves this condition, but does not create it on its own.
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Does Swissvax offer a ceramic coating?
Yes. Swissvax KERAMIQ9 is an infused water-based ceramic sealant for private and professional users. It is easy to apply, strongly water-repellent and can be removed again if needed.
KERAMIQ9 extends the durability of paint surfaces treated with Swissvax polishes and waxes by several months. The sealant preserves the previously achieved condition, but does not create additional gloss without appropriate preparation.
Polishes and application
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Which wax can I polish with? What is the difference between wax and polish?
You do not polish with wax. Polishing is done exclusively with a polish, not with a wax.
In everyday language the term "car wax" is often incorrectly used for polishes. Technically, however, these are two clearly different product categories with different tasks.
A polish serves to correct the paint. It is usually liquid and contains water, solvents and finely balanced abrasives. During application and working in, paint defects such as fine scratches, holograms or clouds are reduced and the surface is smoothed. Polishes can be applied by hand or with a polishing machine. The Swissvax polishes, the so-called Cleaner Fluids, are formulated to work in a controlled way and to prevent over-polishing.
A wax, on the other hand, is completely free of abrasives. It does not correct the paint but seals it. Pure Carnauba waxes protect the previously prepared paint surface, intensify gloss and provide a natural, long-lasting protective layer.
Swissvax paint care therefore always follows a clear sequence. First the paint is washed, then cleaned and, if necessary, polished, and only in the final step sealed with a Carnauba wax. Wax is never used for paint correction, but always on an already clean and smooth surface.
You will find step-by-step instructions in our paint care tutorials.
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Why can I not use Cleaner Fluid hand polish with a polishing machine?
The Swissvax Cleaner Fluid polishes and the Swissvax Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes differ significantly in their viscosity and processing design. Hand polishes are formulated to be noticeably more fluid, machine polishes firmer and more stable.
Cleaner Fluid Regular is therefore not suitable for machine polishing. Due to the high speed of the polishing machine, the overly fluid product would spray heavily, be distributed unevenly and not deliver a controlled polishing result. For work with the polishing machine, Cleaner Fluid Professional Regular is intended, as this formulation has been developed for machine stress, controlled dispensing and clean working.
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What does the cut performance of Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes mean?
Cut performance describes the abrasive capacity of a machine polish on a scale from 0 to 100.
0 stands for no removal, 100 for maximum removal.For the Swissvax Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes, this results in the following classification:
Cleaner Fluid Professional Regular has a cut value of 22. This polish is very finely balanced and allows one-step polishing, as it offers enough paint correction and at the same time achieves a clean finish.
Cleaner Fluid Professional Medium has a cut value of 30. Here, too, one-step polishing is possible, as the cut is still below the threshold at which a separate finish is strictly required.
Cleaner Fluid Professional Strong reaches a cut value of 51. From this range, two-step polishing is necessary, as the cut lies above the finish threshold. The finish cut begins at around 55, which is why, after correction with Strong, a finer polish must be used for the finish.
An important point is the way of working: the longer you work with a polish in the so-called start cut, the finer and more even the resulting finish becomes. Even so, a polish with a high basic cut cannot replace a real finish.
The Professional Regular version is not comparable to the hand polish. It is an independent nano polish, developed specifically for machine use and the softest of the three Professional polishes. It is aimed specifically at machine users who want to achieve as much correction and finish as possible in a single step.
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Quick Finish, Nano Express, and Lotos Speed – when is each used?
Swissvax offers three detailing sprays with clearly separated tasks. They are not interchangeable but cover different situations.
Swissvax Quick Finish is used for quick cleaning in between. It removes light dust in the showroom or garage as well as fresh insect residue, bird droppings, tree sap, water spots or similar light soiling. Quick Finish is applied to paint, glass, chrome, rims and plastics, except textiles. It cleans but does not seal.
Swissvax Nano Express is a paint and plastic refresher. It is used when a full paint correction is not possible, for example after automatic car washes, on used cars, rental vehicles or auction cars. Nano Express refreshes the colour depth and temporarily masks car-wash marks and fine micro-scratches for about one month. In addition, it is excellent for caring for plastics, acrylic windows, vinyl rear windows, door jambs and sill plates. The typical application time per vehicle is around 30 minutes.
Swissvax Lotos Speed is a quick sealant for already cleaned surfaces. It is ideally applied directly after washing and drying the vehicle. Lotos Speed creates, for about one month, a very smooth and strongly water-repellent surface on exterior paint and glass. It can also be used on selected smooth surfaces in the interior, for example high-gloss lacquered woods. Lotos Speed is not combinable with KERAMIQ9.
Leather care and types of leather
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What types of leather are used in cars and how do they differ?
A vehicle interior uses different types of leather and leather-like materials that differ clearly in structure, appearance and care requirements. Smooth leather is surface-sealed, robust and easy to care for. Open-pored leather such as aniline leather is natural, breathable and particularly sensitive to moisture, soiling and abrasion. Vegan leather is a synthetic material that looks similar to leather but ages differently and requires a material-appropriate, gentle form of care. Alcantara is not a leather but a synthetic suede-like material with a fine fibre structure and requires a completely different cleaning method.
Each of these surfaces reacts differently to cleaners, moisture and mechanical stress. That is why tailored care is decisive for preserving look, feel and durability over the long term.
You will find all products in our leather care collection. Detailed instructions on our leather care page.
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How can I tell whether my leather is open-pore or coated?
Whether a leather is open-pored or pigmented can be determined with a simple water test on an inconspicuous spot. If a small drop of water soaks into the leather within a short time and darkens the spot, it is an open-pored leather such as aniline leather. If the drop stays on the surface and can be wiped off, the leather is surface-sealed and therefore pigmented smooth leather.
Open-pored leather is natural, breathable and particularly sensitive to moisture and soiling. Pigmented smooth leather has a protective colour coat, is more robust and easier to care for.
More on this on our leather care page.
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How do I clean smooth leather in the car correctly?
Smooth leather is cleaned, depending on the degree of soiling, with Swissvax Leather Cleaner or Swissvax Leather Cleaner Forte . The cleaner is applied gently and the loosened dirt is then taken off with a soft, clean cloth.
Light to normal soiling can be removed with Leather Cleaner. For heavier dirt, discolouration or heavily used contact zones, Leather Cleaner Forte is used. In both cases the surface stays supple and is not attacked, as cleaning is done without aggressive solvents.
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Does new leather need care or only protection?
New smooth leather needs no care, as it has been sufficiently re-oiled at the factory. It should, however, be protected from the start to prevent premature wear, abrasion and jeans dye transfer. For this, Swissvax Leather Glaze is used.
Leather Glaze forms an invisible protective layer on the leather surface that reduces friction and makes it significantly harder for dyes to penetrate. This way the leather stays clean, even and visually as-new for longer, without altering its feel.
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How do I care for used or dry leather?
Used or dry smooth leather is cared for after cleaning with Swissvax Leather Milk. The leather care is applied sparingly, soaks into the material and keeps the leather supple. At the same time, the leather is protected from further drying out and premature wear.
Leather Milk supplies stressed leather with moisture again, improves the feel and supports the natural elasticity, without over-oiling the surface or giving it a greasy look.
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Which types of leather must I not treat with Swissvax leather products?
Swissvax leather products for smooth leather must not be used on buffalo leather or suede. These types of leather have a different fibre structure and react sensitively to smooth-leather cleaners and care products.
Open-pored leather such as aniline leather must furthermore not be treated with strong cleaning products such as Swissvax Leather Cleaner Forte or with brushes. Too intensive cleaning can damage the open structure, cause stains or permanently alter the surface.
For sensitive types of leather, the rule is therefore always: clean in a way appropriate to the material, work without pressure and use only products designed for the purpose.
You will find all products in our leather care collection. Detailed instructions on our leather care page.
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How do I care for vegan leather in the car?
Vegan leather is cleaned and, if needed, protected, but requires no care emulsions such as those used on real leather. For material-appropriate cleaning, Swissvax Vegan Leather Cleaner is used.
The cleaner gently removes soiling, preserves the elasticity of the material and protects against drying out and cracking. The surface is cleaned without over-caring it or making it look greasy. Depending on the surface structure, application is with a soft cleaning brush or a sponge, followed by wiping off with a clean cloth.
Vegan leather is a synthetic material with a different ageing logic than real leather. That is why classic leather care products are unsuitable and can negatively affect the surface in the long term.
Interior and cockpit care
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How do I clean the interior correctly?
Interior cleaning always begins with thoroughly vacuuming loose dirt. A vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle is used, and ideally floor mats and loose carpets are removed beforehand.
Textile surfaces such as seats, carpets, headliners or floor mats are then cleaned with Swissvax Fabric . The textile cleaner gently removes soiling without leaving cleaning rings, and is suitable for all textile materials in the interior.
Plastic and vinyl surfaces are then cleaned with Swissvax Plastic Wash. This provides a deep-pore cleaning and forms the basis for subsequent care or sealing, without attacking the surface or making it look greasy.
Through this sequence, the interior stays hygienically clean, cared for in a material-appropriate way and evenly preserved visually.
All products and instructions on our interior care page.
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How do I care for sensitive surfaces such as piano black trim or screens?
Delicate surfaces such as piano lacquer, displays and high-gloss interior parts are cleaned gently with Swissvax Quick Interior Finish and a Swissvax Micro Polish. Fingerprints, dust and light soiling can be removed streak-free without causing micro-scratches.
Quick Interior Finish has an anti-static effect and is formulated solvent-free. This means the delicate surface is not attacked, further dust attraction is reduced and the original finish of piano lacquer and screens is preserved.
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How are plastic surfaces in the interior cared for?
Plastic and vinyl surfaces in the interior are first thoroughly cleaned with Swissvax Plastic Wash. This deep-pore cleaning removes dirt, skin oils and deposits and creates the necessary basis for even care.
After cleaning, Swissvax Protecton provides intensive deep care and rich, even protection. For matte surfaces or when a matte finish is desired, Swissvax Protecton Matt is used. Both products protect against drying out, discolouration and premature material wear.
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How do I clean Alcantara correctly?
Alcantara surfaces are cleaned gently with Swissvax Alcanta Cleaner . The cleaner is sprayed onto a clean sponge or directly onto the surface and worked in with dabbing motions. Work without pressure and do not rub, so as not to damage the fine synthetic fibres.
On more heavily soiled spots, Alcanta Cleaner can additionally be worked in carefully with a soft cleaning brush and minimal pressure. The surface is then dabbed dry with a soft cotton cloth. Rubbing should always be avoided to preserve the structure and appearance of the Alcantara.
Rims and tyres
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How do I seal matte-painted wheels?
Matte painted wheels are sealed in several short working steps to preserve the matte appearance while building protection against dirt and brake dust.
First, the wheels are thoroughly washed and completely dried. Then a small section is sprayed with Pre Cleaner Opaque and gently wiped off within about 10 to 15 seconds. This step is repeated section by section so the surface is clean and optimally prepared for sealing.
For the actual sealing, Autobahn Wax is applied to a small section. After a short curing time of around 10 to 15 seconds, the wax is carefully buffed off. The next section is then treated until the entire wheel is evenly protected.
This method fully preserves the matte effect while making the wheel more resistant to contamination and easier to clean in the future.
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Why are there two wheel cleaners – Wheel or Wheel Spray Forte?
Swissvax offers two wheel cleaners because rims have different requirements depending on use, state of care and degree of soiling. Wheel and Wheel Spray Forte deliberately pursue two different cleaning approaches.
Swissvax Wheel is a classic wheel cleaner concentrate based on natural active ingredients such as peppermint oil. It is diluted with water depending on the degree of soiling and is particularly suitable for regularly cared-for or only lightly to normally soiled rims. Through the individually chosen concentration, only as much cleaning power is used as necessary, which preserves the existing wax sealant. Wheel is also very economical and space-saving when travelling, since only the concentrate needs to be carried.
On heavily neglected rims with baked-in brake dust, however, Wheel can reach its limits. Because of the thin-fluid mix, it is also necessary to spray several times during cleaning.
For these cases, Swissvax Wheel Spray Forte was developed. This modern wheel cleaner is acid- and phosphate-free, based on sulphur capolate and can be used on all rim surfaces, including painted or magnesium rims. An integrated colour indicator shows when the cleaning action starts and when it is complete. Thanks to its higher cleaning activity and thick-fluid consistency, Wheel Spray Forte adheres better and also reliably removes stubborn soiling.
The disadvantage of Wheel Spray Forte lies in its lower yield and fixed concentration. In addition, the product has a light sulphur smell, which is a technical by-product. Because of the higher cleaning power, the durability of an existing wax sealant can be somewhat shorter than with regular cleaning using Wheel.
In practice, Wheel is ideal for regular everyday use, especially on well-cared-for vehicles and in moderate driving conditions. Wheel Spray Forte is the right choice for heavily soiled rims, after long motorway drives or when rims have not been cleaned for a longer period.
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Why are there two wheel cleaners – Wheel and Wheel Spray Forte?
Wheel cleaning should always take place before the car wash, as brake dust, metal particles and heavy soiling can otherwise reach already-cleaned paint surfaces. Brake dust adheres strongly and can permanently damage the rim surface if it is not removed regularly and thoroughly.
Wheel cleaning involves more intensive cleaners, brushes and a lot of water. If the rims were only cleaned after the paint wash, loosened dirt particles, cleaner residue and spray water could reach the paint again and compromise the wash result. There is also an increased risk of micro-scratches when dirt from the rims is transferred onto already-clean paint surfaces.
With the sequence of rims first, paint afterwards, the result of the car wash stays clean, even and protected in the long term. At the same time, it ensures that brake dust causes no lasting damage to the rim surface and that existing wax sealants are optimally preserved.
All products and instructions on our rim care page and in the rim care tutorials.
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How do I protect wheels long-term against brake dust and salt?
For long-term protection, Swissvax Autobahn wheel wax is used. It forms a heat-resistant protective layer based on Carnauba wax, enriched with PTFE. This protective layer makes it harder for brake dust, salt and road dirt to adhere, and considerably eases later cleaning.
Thanks to its high temperature resistance, Autobahn wheel wax is also suitable for heavily used rims. Brake dust settles less, salt and moisture do not penetrate the surface, and existing rim coatings are preserved. The protection helps to prevent corrosion and lasting surface damage.
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How do I properly care for tires and whitewall tires?
Tyres are cared for with Swissvax Pneu . The tyre care supplies the rubber compound with moisture, protects against drying out and cracking and produces an even, deep-black appearance. Application is on clean and dry tyre sidewalls by spraying on or applying specifically with a brush or hand puck.
Whitewall tyres are first cleaned with Swissvax Pneu White . The specialist cleaner reliably removes yellowing and stubborn soiling without attacking the material. After cleaning and drying, Swissvax Pneu care can also be used on the black rubber areas of whitewall tyres to provide protection and shine.
Step-by-step instructions in our rim care tutorials.
Matte paint and matte surfaces
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Opaque – for matte paints and matte films
On matte-painted or matte-wrapped surfaces, no conventional polishes, waxes, insect removers or insect sponges must be used. Such products smooth the surface and permanently change the matte appearance towards gloss.
So that matte paints and matte wraps keep their characteristic finish, the Swissvax products in the Opaque line were developed specifically for these surfaces. They are precisely matched to the structure and sensitivity of matte surfaces and do not attack the finish.
The Opaque premium wax contains 40 per cent by volume of pure Brazilian Grade One Carnauba wax. It reliably protects matte surfaces from fingerprints, dirt, water spots and insect residue without changing the matte effect. The appearance stays evenly matte, but the surface becomes more resistant and easier to clean. Thanks to its very simple processing, the Opaque wax is suitable both for private and professional users.
For an even and lasting result, the surface must always be prepared before waxing with the Pre Cleaner Opaque. Only then can the wax adhere correctly and fully develop its protective effect.
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Can matte paint be polished?
No. Matte paints and matte films must not be polished, as polishing smooths the surface structure and permanently changes the matte appearance toward gloss. For this reason, there is no polish for matte surfaces.
Before sealing, however, the surface must still be cleaned and properly prepared. For this purpose, the paint is gently cleaned with Swissvax Pre Cleaner Opaque and prepared to accept the wax without altering the matte finish. -
How do I wash a matte painted vehicle correctly?
A matte painted or matte wrapped vehicle is washed exclusively with Car Bath Opaque, as this shampoo contains no gloss enhancers or brighteners. This ensures that the matte appearance is fully preserved. After washing, the vehicle is gently dried with the Ultra Dry.
Conventional car shampoos and care products are unsuitable for matte surfaces, as they may contain abrasive components or gloss additives. These would attack the silky matte structure or create unwanted shine. For this reason, there are also no classic polishes for matte paints.
Car Bath Opaque is sparingly dosed into the wash water and the vehicle is washed from top to bottom. Regular cleaning removes dirt, dust and environmental deposits without altering the sensitive surface and forms the basis for any further care or sealing within the Opaque series. -
Which wax sealant is suitable for matte paint?
For matte-painted and matte-wrapped surfaces, the Swissvax Opaque wax is suitable. It was developed specifically for matte surfaces and protects against micro-scratches and rapid re-soiling, without changing the matte effect or creating gloss.
The Opaque wax forms an even protective layer that makes the surface more resistant and eases cleaning. The matte appearance stays fully preserved. The prerequisite for an optimal result is prior cleaning and preparation with the Pre Cleaner Opaque.
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How do I remove fingerprints or light dirt on matte paint?
Light soiling and fingerprints on matte-painted or matte-wrapped surfaces are removed with Swissvax Quick Finish Opaque. The product is sprayed on and then gently wiped off with the Micro Polish cloth.
Quick Finish Opaque is formulated specifically for matte surfaces and removes light contamination without creating gloss or attacking the delicate surface structure. The matte appearance stays fully preserved and the surface looks evenly cared for.
PPF and film care
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Why do PPF protection films require regular care?
PPF protection films need regular care because they are permanently exposed to UV radiation, dirt, environmental deposits and chemical stress. Without care, the material can lose elasticity over time, become brittle and lose its protective effect.
Paint Protection Films reliably protect the paint from stone chips and external influences, especially at the front of the vehicle. Whether transparent, glossy, coloured or matte films, all PPF materials age under sunlight, air pollution, insect residue and limescale deposits. These influences attack the surface of the film and can encourage water spots, adhesion problems and reduced self-healing capability.
Regular care with dedicated Swissvax PPF products preserves the flexibility of the film, stabilises the surface and supports the original protective properties. At the same time, water and dirt repellence is improved, which makes deposits easier to remove and significantly reduces the risk of limescale and water spots.
Swissvax has developed specialist care, wax and sealing solutions for PPF that are matched to the chemical composition of protection films. This keeps the film visually high-grade, functionally durable and protected over the long term, without compromising its material properties.
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Which wax is suitable for PPF?
For PPF protection films, the Swissvax PPF wax with 40 per cent Carnauba wax is suitable. It was developed specifically for wrapped vehicles and is matched to the chemical composition of Paint Protection Films.
The wax preserves the gloss of the film, supports its elasticity and offers additional protection against UV exposure. With correct application, the durability is around 6 to 9 months. This can be extended or shortened, depending on use, environmental influences and regular care with suitable Swissvax products. If unsuitable cleaners or aggressive wash chemistry are used, the durability reduces accordingly.
The high content of natural Carnauba wax protects the surface of the film without compromising its material structure or function.
You will find complete PPF care sets in our PPF collection.
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Can PPF be polished?
Yes. PPF protection films can be treated with dedicated Swissvax products both by hand and with a polishing machine. Suitable polishes make it possible to reduce fine scratches, light scuffs and holograms without compromising the structure or protective function of the film.
The important thing is to use only products matched to PPF. Unsuitable or overly aggressive polishes can damage the surface of the film, compromise its self-healing properties or lead to differences in gloss. With correct application, the film stays functional, visually even and protected in the long term.
Suitable polishes: Cleaner Fluid Regular by hand, CF Professional Regular for machine. For matte PPF: Pre-Cleaner Opaque instead of polishing.
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Which ceramic coating is suitable for PPF?
For PPF protection films, KERAMIQ⁹ is suitable. The ceramic sealant offers up to 12 months of protection and is compatible with PPF films. It can be applied one day after waxing and reinforces the existing wax sealant without compromising the film structure.
KERAMIQ⁹ creates a very smooth, water-repellent surface and additionally protects the film from environmental influences. Application is safe for private users, free of toxic fumes and works across materials. If needed, the sealant can be removed easily and residue-free with Swissvax Prep Fluid.
Care accessories and materials
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How do I wash microfiber cloths, polishing pads and applicators correctly?
Microfibre cloths, polishing pads and applicators are washed at 40 degrees, without fabric softener.
Fabric softener clogs the microfibres and reduces cleaning power, absorbency and service life. Too-high temperatures or unsuitable wash programmes can permanently damage hook-and-loop surfaces, foam structure and fibre binding.
Always wash microfibre cloths and textiles such as white cleaner pads, wax pads, polishing pads and hand pucks separately from other textiles, especially separately from drying towels and glass microfibre cloths. Do not mix textiles with wax or polish residue with normal cleaning cloths.
With polishing pads, where available, choose a machine programme with extra or additional water so that residue is fully rinsed out and the pad retains its original performance.
You will find all microfibre cloths and replacements in our microfibre collection.
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About microfiber
Microfibre cloths differ considerably in quality and performance. What matters is not the appearance, but the fibre structure, material mix and finishing.
High-grade microfibre cloths can absorb seven to eight times their own weight in liquid. This is only possible if the fibres are split. This elaborate manufacturing process creates a considerably greater absorption surface. Inexpensive mass-market cloths usually use unsplit fibres, as the split process is expensive. The absorbency is correspondingly much lower.
Another quality factor is the fineness of the microfibre. High-grade cloths consist of real microfibres with a thickness of around 0.01 to 0.02 denier. The finer the fibre and the higher the fibre density in the weave, the better the cleaning power and dirt pick-up. Cheap cloths work with considerably thicker fibres of up to 0.5 denier or more, which corresponds roughly to the thickness of a normal polyester thread.
The weave itself is also decisive. A blended weave of 80 per cent polyester and 20 per cent polyamide is considered the current quality standard. The Swissvax 70/30 mix can absorb liquids even more quickly and effectively, as the polyamide content is considerably higher. Polyamide is significantly more expensive than polyester, which is why cheap cloths are often made of 100 per cent polyester or contain only a very small proportion of polyamide. This noticeably reduces absorbency.
For use on automotive paint, the treatment of the edges also plays a central role. Suitable microfibre cloths have no hem, a sealed edge or an edge of silk weave. Cloths with a sewn hem can cause scratches or marks on delicate paint surfaces and are therefore not recommended for vehicle care.
All Swissvax microfibre cloths – laser-cut and with a 70/30 blend – in our microfibre collection.
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At what point should I use Seal Feed?
Seal Feed is used when rubber seals or plastic parts are already aged, dried out or weathered. For new seals and new plastic parts, Protecton is the suitable initial sealant.
Seal Feed is an intensive care product that maintains elasticity, reduces drying out and supports the regeneration of existing materials. New components do not yet require this intensive care, but benefit from a preventive sealant.
Application frequency depends heavily on the climate. In Central and Northern Europe, application once or twice per year is sufficient. In regions with high UV exposure and extreme heat, such as Texas, Arizona or the Middle East, Seal Feed should be applied much more frequently, usually monthly.
Service, advice and Swissvax
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How long do Swissvax products last?
The shelf life of Swissvax products depends on the product category and on proper storage. Swissvax waxes keep for around seven to ten years when stored correctly closed and undamaged. For the rest of the range, a minimum shelf life of two years applies, provided the products are stored properly.
Storage temperature has a significant influence on shelf life. Ideal is cool, dry storage at around 10 to 14 degrees, for example in a cellar. Products should be protected from frost as well as from temperatures above 30 degrees, as extreme temperatures can compromise the formulation.
With liquid products, we recommend shaking well before each use to ensure an even distribution of active ingredients.
Our care sets are an ideal entry point, and our tutorials show the optimal application.
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Purchase products and receive advice on site in Fällanden
At the flagship store and Car Detailing Center of Swissvax AG, we advise you personally and enable direct purchase of our products at the headquarters.
You receive a complimentary quote for vehicle detailing directly on site from our experts. No appointment is required.
Address
Tämperlistrasse 3
8117 FällandenContact
Phone: +41 840 851 851
Email: customerservice@swissvax.comOpening hours
Monday to Friday
08:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:30More about our detailing service on the detailing service page.
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How much does vehicle detailing cost?
The cost of vehicle detailing is individual and depends on vehicle type, condition, desired scope of services and care objectives. For this reason, we do not offer flat rates, but prepare a quotation tailored to your vehicle.
At the Swissvax AG car detailing center, we also take time for personal advice even for spontaneous visits. After a brief inspection of your vehicle, you will receive a free and non binding quotation.
Address
Tämperlistrasse 3
8117 Fällanden
Contact
Phone: +41 840 851 851
Email: customerservice@swissvax.com
Opening hours
Monday to Friday
08:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:30 -
Are our products ecological and biodegradable?
Swissvax products are as natural and environmentally compatible as possible, without making compromises on effectiveness and material protection. We deliberately describe this approach as "best natural" – as natural as is technically sensible to implement.
The philosophy goes back to 1930, when Hans Anwander first developed care products for his own use. The goal from the very beginning was to produce products that are safe for users and the environment, long before terms like ecological or sustainable were established.
Today, Swissvax products even meet strict international GHS standards and are classified neither as hazardous goods nor as harmful to health. They are used worldwide in more than 30 countries.
In terms of ingredients, we deliberately rely on natural components. Our wheel cleaner Wheel is based, among other things, on peppermint oil. Our waxes consist to a large extent of high-grade Carnauba wax, beeswax and natural fruit oils. We use exclusively Grade One Carnauba wax in cosmetic quality. This is scraped by hand from Carnauba palm leaves and is not chemically extracted.
As with all everyday cleaning products, including hair shampoos or detergents, soaps, surfactants and phosphates are used. These are fundamentally biodegradable. What is decisive, however, is the amount used. Excessive concentrations can pollute waters and compromise water quality. Swissvax products are therefore highly concentrated and designed for maximum effect at minimal dosage, recognisable by the comparatively small containers.
More about our philosophy on the About Swissvax page.