Video: How to choose the best car wax

The change of seasons marks a great time to apply a fresh coat of car wax, as we have found that most liquid and paste waxes typically start to fade in just a few weeks. Consumer Reports Automotive Editor Rik Paul discussed our latest car wax test results with several television stations this week, advising viewers on how to choose the best wax and sharing insights from our extensive testing.

For our latest ratings update, we tested 19 products. And of those, none performed well enough to earn an excellent rating. The results show that premium products didn't necessarily hold up any better than lower-priced alternatives, proving that you don't need to choose an expensive wax for good protection.

By applying a fresh coat of wax every three months, you can keep the car looking sharp; protect against damage from bird droppings, tree sap, and other contaminants; and potentially increase its trade-in value. But it is important to choose the right product for your needs.

To find the best car wax for your ride, check our latest car wax buying advice and Ratings.

Car wax 101 with Consumer Reports: wwlp.com

—Jeff Bartlett