Wax on the Windshield: A Guide to Elimination

Thomas Wachsmuth 26 May 2023 Tips, products, information & Co.

One of the most common annoyances that motorists experience after a visit to the car wash is the problem of wax residue on the windshield. As part of the wax care, a protective film is often applied to the vehicle, which can also be placed on the windshield. As soon as the windshield wipers come into action, they often start to rub and rattle, which can lead to restricted visibility, annoying noise and sometimes even possible damage to the windshield wipers. Below is a detailed guide on how to remove wax from the vehicle windshield.

Remove wax from the windshield

Before you start cleaning, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. First you need an auto glass cleaner. This should preferably be ammonia-free so as not to damage the seal on the pane. Microfiber cloths are also needed, which are ideal for cleaning glass surfaces as they effectively pick up dirt and wax without scratching the surface. A windscreen wiper cleaner is also essential as it will help rid the wiper blades of any wax residue that could get back onto the screen. A soft sponge is also useful for applying the detergent and removing the loosened wax. Finally, a scraper might be helpful, primarily for particularly stubborn wax residue. However, be careful when using it as improper use may cause scratches on the windshield.

Step-by-step wax removal guide

Step 1: Prepare the vehicle

Place the car in a shaded area to avoid the glass cleaner drying too quickly. This could lead to staining. It is also safer to complete the entire process in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2: Application of the glass cleaner

Spray the glass cleaner generously onto the windshield. Make sure the entire surface is covered, including the corners and edges. Leave the cleaner on for a few minutes to allow it to soften the wax. Read the instructions on the product to determine the recommended exposure time.

Step 3: Wipe off the cleaner

Take a clean microfiber cloth and wipe the glass in a circular motion. The cloth should absorb and remove the loosened wax. You may want to have several cloths on hand as these can quickly become saturated with wax and cleaner. This may also be necessary if the wax is also to be removed from the side or rear windows.

Step 4: Checking for Remaining Wax

Look for areas that still have a wax film. It may be necessary to repeat the cleaning process in these areas. One trick is to look at the disc from different angles to make sure there is no wax left. Feeling with your fingers can also work.

Step 5: Cleaning the wipers

It is also important to clean the wipers. Wax can also accumulate on the wiper blades and be reapplied to the windshield with each wipe. A windscreen wiper cleaner can help to clean them effectively. But make sure to thoroughly clean both the rubber edge and the rest of the wipers.

Step 6: Final cleaning

When all of the wax is removed, wipe the windshield again with a fresh microfiber cloth and glass cleaner. This ensures that all wax residue is completely removed. Repeat the process until the disc is completely clean.

Step 7: Optional - Using a scraper

In stubborn cases where the wax just won't come off, a special glass scraper can be helpful. But beware: Such scrapers should only be used by experienced users as they can cause scratches if used improperly.

maintenance and prevention

After removing that pesky wax from your windshield, there are a few things you can do to avoid the problem in the future.

Ask the car wash attendant to cover the windshield while waxing. This can help avoid the problem in the first place. Of course, this only makes sense with a manual system and not in a fully automatic car wash.

Use a glass cleaner on the windshield regularly. A clean and well-maintained disc is less likely to pick up wax.
Check and clean your wipers regularly. A cleaner wiper leaves less residue and performs better.

Overall, removing wax from your windshield can be a little time-consuming, but the result - a clear, unobstructed view and a quieter, more efficient wipe - is definitely worth it. With the right products and a little care, you can successfully get to grips with the problem of wax film on your windshield and enjoy driving again, even in the rain.

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