Waxing a car is often thought of as a slow and labor-intensive process, but it isn’t. Speed ​​up your waxing process with these six great car polishes.
Our editors and experts carefully select each product we recommend. We may earn a commission from your purchases. learn more.
Polishing, waxing, and buffing a car are all parts of the detailing process that are traditionally done by hand. While some purists still prefer to vigorously sand, there’s no denying that electric polishers (also known as buffing machines) make the polishing process much easier while still delivering superior results. While car polish and wax are different substances, the same machine, known as an orbital polisher, can do both.
Car polish is a mild abrasive liquid used before waxing to improve the smoothness and shine of your car’s paintwork. Car wax is a water-repellent substance, natural or synthetic, that is applied to a car’s body to form a protective film over the surface of the paint and clear coat. After waxing, excess wax needs to be polished off. This is where a car polishing and buffing machine comes in. Here are the six best polishing machines.
This dual-action random orbital polisher ($70) is one of the most durable and sturdy tools in its class. Its sturdy construction and high power make it stand out from the crowd, and Amazon reviewers agree: “This polisher is a great buy at a great price. Sturdy construction and plenty of power.” The three foam pads included are best for polishing, so if you want to wax, use a pad that matches.
The problem with many car polishing/waxing/buffing machines is that they’re too heavy, which can lead to serious arm fatigue and soreness after long hours of polishing. That’s why this product from Black & Decker ($34) made our list. It’s lightweight (just over 5 pounds), and the two-handle design makes it easier, more comfortable, and more maneuverable than many other options. Consider investing in a set of foam and wool pads, which can handle both polishing and waxing tasks with ease.
If you’re tired of polishing your car by hand but don’t want to spend the money on a dedicated polishing machine, this kit from Meguiar’s ($54) might be for you.
Designed to work with a cordless drill, this polishing pad costs just $55, making it one of the most affordable ways to mechanize your car polishing process. The foam pads included with the pads are best used for waxing or polishing, not for buffing. When it’s time to buff away any excess dried wax from your car, you can quickly and economically wrap a new foam applicator pad in a microfiber cloth, secure it with a rubber band, and buff away.
If you need a powerful polisher, the Torq Orbital Polisher ($160) is a great choice. It comes with a variety of polishing pads and polishes. With a high speed range of 2,800 to 7,800 RPM, this polisher can significantly reduce your polishing time.
This Makita tool ($216) features easy portability, precise speed control, and an extra-large 7-inch pivot base. It comes with a large, durable canvas bag for easy storage and transport, making it easy to take your full set of polishing tools wherever you need them. Reviewers are especially impressed with the speed control: “With this Makita tool, you’ll find that the speed control is very precise, no matter how much pressure you apply (the torque on these machines is very high).”
The two fleece pads included are great for polishing, but if you want to use this tool for polishing or waxing, you’ll need to purchase the foam pad.
If you regularly clean your car and are tired of buying polishing pads, cleaning cloths, and sponges individually, this kit from PoliWell ($100) is definitely one of the most complete kits on the market. It comes with a dual-action polisher, side handle, D-handle, wrench, Allen key, two carbon brushes, five polishing pads, a sanding disc, two hood cleaning pads, a car wash mitt, a microfiber cloth, a car wash sponge, a pair of work gloves, earplugs, and a tool bag—yes, that’s it!
We no longer support IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to ensure that our site works in browsers that support new web standards and security methods.