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While wax is a good way to protect your car or truck from scratches and swirls, a car paint sealant is arguably a better option. It lasts longer, and the formula is more durable than wax. It can be used to ward off damage caused by acid rain, UV rays, road grime, and debris. Made of synthetic polymers, car sealants are designed to keep contaminants from harming and sticking to a vehicle’s paint and clear coat.
They provide a sort of shield that can tolerate more abrasion than wax products. In addition, the highest-quality paint sealants can be effective for a long time, while waxes need to be reapplied more often (i.e., every one to three months). High-quality waxes produce a higher gloss shine than sealants, so it’s a good idea to decide what you want before investing in one of these products. If a sealant is your preferred method of paint protection, we have some excellent options below.
Summary List
- Best Overall: Chemical Guys JetSeal Paint Sealant and Paint Protectant
- Best Value: Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Synthetic Sealant 2.0
- Honorable Mention: Wolfgang Concours Series Deep Gloss Paint Sealant 3.0
- Best Spray-On Sealant: Turtle Wax Ice Seal N Shine Hybrid Sealant Spray Wax
Our Methodology
In order to pick the best car paint sealants out of the many available products, we took a look at the different sealants available from brands both well-known and new. We considered and compared their ingredients and formulation, looking for both pure sealants and more versatile all-in-one sealants. Factors such as the application method, the finish once applied, and the durability or longevity of each sealant played a role in our decision-making process. We also took users’ real-life experiences working with these sealants, in the form of users’ reviews, into account to assess how long they could last in real-world use cases and if any problems might arise.
Best Car Paint Sealant Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Chemical Guys JetSeal Paint Sealant and Paint Protectant
Pros
- Offers all-around protection against the elements as well as water spots, dirt, and different kinds of debris
- Includes anti-corrosion protection
- Enhances paint finish for increased vibrancy
- Bonds with vehicle exterior, including paint, plastics, and polished metals
Cons
- Doesn’t deliver a deep gloss finish
- Doesn’t repel rain, and rain can shorten its durability
Specs
Size:16 ounces
Lasts For: Up to 12 months
Formula: Nano-polymer blend
When it comes to a durable, highly protective car paint sealant, the Chemical Guys JetSeal Paint Sealant and Paint Protectant delivers all-around results that are tough to top. Applying this product to your car’s exterior can provide protection from all of the harshest environmental elements, from sunlight to pollution to road grime. Made with a blend of synthetic wax and nano-polymers, this sealant lasts up to a full year and helps limit damage caused by weather, the road, and more. You can easily apply it by hand or with a dual-action polishing machine, and it applies a nice shine once it’s layered over your clean paint. As an added bonus, you can even use this sealant without worry on clear plastics, polished metals, and other auto surfaces.
However, if you’re looking for an extra-glossy finish, this sealant doesn’t deliver a deep gloss. For added depth, you’ll want to look elsewhere. Additionally, you may not see the full potential of its protection if you live in a rainy region; rain can shorten the lifespan of each application.
Best Value: Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Synthetic Sealant 2.0
Pros
- Deeper, more reflective finish
- Multidimensional appearanceu
- Can eliminate fine scratches and swirls
- Wipes on easily
Cons
- Beads water
- Not long-lasting formula
Specs
Size: 16 ounces
Lasts For: 1 to 3 months
Formula: Synthetic polymer blend
If you’re looking for a car paint sealant that won’t break the bank and yet still delivers top-tier results, you’ll want to try a bottle of Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Synthetic Sealant 2.0. Formulated with synthetic polymers and hydrophobic technology, this liquid sealant is meant to offer advanced paint care and all-around protection. And with a smooth, glide-on application method, it’s easy to wipe right onto your vehicle. This sealant is especially great for those looking for a lot of bang for their buck. The product delivers a noticeably deeper, darker, and more reflective finish to make paint look more exquisite at a low price. It can also improve the paint’s appearance by visually hiding fine scratches and swirls.
When it comes to its hydrophobic claims, however, this car paint sealant doesn’t fully live up to its promise. It’ll cause water to bead on your car’s surfaces, but it doesn’t actually repel water. Additionally, it isn’t the most long lasting. It’ll need to be reapplied anywhere from every one to three months.
Honorable Mention: Wolfgang Concours Series Deep Gloss Paint Sealant 3.0
Pros
- Zero-dusting formula
- Deep glossy finish
- Non-abrasive
- A little goes a long way for protection
Cons
- Towel prone to leaving behind fibers
- Not long-lasting
Specs
Size:16 ounces
Lasts For: About 1 month
Formula: Polymer and water based
If gloss is your goal—along with paint protection—then Wolfgang Concours Series Deep Gloss Paint Sealant 3.0 is a formula that can suit your needs. Blended with polymers and water to create a deeply glossy final result, this car paint sealant both protects and beautifies your vehicle’s exterior. Clear coat safe and stain-free for moldings, this non-abrasive sealant can deliver a new-car finish while offering solid protection. Its zero-dusting formula is meant to withstand the outdoor elements, from UV rays to pollution to salt and water to dirt. Plus, the special polymer blend of this formula helps eliminate static and repel common problems such as road grime, oil, dust, and water.
The biggest potential drawback of this car paint sealant is actually the included microfiber towel. You’ll want to skip it when applying the sealant, as the towel tends to leave behind fibers and dust; it even creates some static. To get a truly flawless finish, use a different towel or applicator.
Best Spray-On Sealant: Turtle Wax Ice Seal N Shine Hybrid Sealant Spray Wax
Pros
- Easy applicator
- Helps water bead
- Can reduce drying time
- Wax not necessary
Cons
- Not long lasting
- Not much shine or gloss
Specs
Size: 16 ounces
Lasts For:1 to 2 months
Formula: Synthetic sealant blend infused with carnauba wax
If you want a no-fuss application process that can seal your paint without a lot of effort, Turtle Wax Ice Seal N Shine Hybrid Sealant Spray Wax is a winner. It’s designed to go on quickly, letting you add in an extra layer of protection for your car’s exterior without specialized care or detailing. With an easy-to-use spray nozzle and a synthetic blend of sealants plus carnauba wax, it’s an all-in-one solution that keeps dirt and water at bay. It creates a super hydrophobic surface, which allows water to bead up and slide right off your car. It can even reduce the amount of drying time needed when you wash your vehicle, and it’ll keep paint looking shiny.
This car paint sealant doesn’t last very long and only provides about a month to two months of durability. It also doesn’t create deep gloss or shine; you’ll see some thanks to the included wax, but it won’t really deliver a showroom finish.
Our Verdict
When it comes to a sealant that’ll protect your paint, offer good longevity, and makes for easy application, it’s hard to beat all of the benefits rolled into a bottle of Chemical Guys JetSeal Paint Sealant and Paint Protectant. However, if you’re also looking for an affordable price and great results for all-around value, Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Synthetic Sealant 2.0 can deliver too.
What to Consider When Buying Car Paint Sealant
Sealants may seem simple, but small differences between products can make for a noticeable difference when they’re applied. Here are our best tips for picking out a quality paint sealant.
Types of Car Paint Sealant
Pure Sealants
A pure car paint sealant is formulated to do one job: seal your exterior paint. These products are simple and straightforward, and they can be made with polymer or acrylic in their formulas. Acrylic tends to offer the best level of durability, while polymer-based sealants can include other ingredients (such as wax) that deliver more gloss and shine. When you apply a pure sealant, you’ll solely get sealed and protected paint.
Cleaning or All-in-One Sealants
Cleaning sealants, which are also called all-in-one sealants, offer more than a pure sealant. These are multipurpose products, and they typically include cleaning agents, such as solvents and abrasives, that work to both clean your paint and keep it protected. An all-in-one sealant can essentially prep your exterior for you, cleaning and removing mild oxidation (and even very fine scratches, in some products’ cases) as they’re applied. However, they don’t offer the same longevity as pure sealants.
Car Paint Sealant Key Features
Color Specific or Universal Finish
Not all sealants are made for every paint color. While you can definitely find a universal formula that’ll work regardless of your exterior color, you’ll also find that different products are often tailored to specific colors. Black cars in particular may need a color-specific sealant finish, as it may be tricky to match the right level of glossiness and shine. Depending on your paint color, you may want to opt for a color-specific product to achieve more vibrancy. You can choose one that’s universal for any color if you just want protection above all else.
Versatile Paint Protection
Sure, sealant is supposed to seal your paint and make it more durable. But some sealants offer more protection than others, and you’ll want to choose one that targets your biggest concerns. While your basic sealant typically repels debris, dust, and dirt, a more advanced sealant can offer heavier-duty protection against rain and UV rays. There are even premium products that may remove swirls and small surface scratches. Look for one that offers a blend of protection benefits and can be versatile enough for the climate you live in. For example, you’ll want dirt and sunlight protection if you live somewhere warm and dry.
Visual Enhancement
While sealant is first and foremost designed to protect your paint, a good sealant can actually improve the appearance of your exterior too. Each sealant can offer some level of visual enhancement because they tend to have a flatter appearance than a clear coat alone, which is rougher. When you apply sealant, it’ll typically look slicker and glossier, almost like you’ve applied a coat of wax. It’s a great idea to pick a sealant that has a finish that’ll visually enhance your car’s exterior. You can look for extra gloss, a sheen, or even dual-use products that include extra ingredients to help achieve a glossier finish.
Car Paint Sealant Pricing
On average, you’ll spend between $30 and $40 for a bottle of car paint sealant. If you’re looking for a larger bottle with more sealant included or a specialized product (such as one with a spray nozzle applicator), then you’ll spend a bit more. The prices of these sealants can run from $40 to $70.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: How long do car paint sealants last?
A: Your sealant typically lasts a few months, and the maximum lifespan is six months. Check the specs on the sealant you’re buying, as the label should tell you the expected lifespan and how frequently you’ll need to reapply.
Q: Should I apply wax before or after sealant?
A: You’ll want to apply your car paint sealant first, let it cure fully, and then apply a coat of wax. If you’re unsure, you can always double-check the instructions on your sealant to verify.
Q: Do I apply paint and polish before or after sealant?
A: If you’re doing any kind of paint touch-ups or correction, make sure to apply your paint before you add any sealant. Sealant is meant to adhere to paint, so you can follow up with polish (or wax) after you’ve applied paint, then sealant.
Q. How much do car paint sealants cost?
A: It can cost several hundred dollars to have paint sealant applied on your vehicle at the dealership. To save a few bucks, you can do it yourself. You can purchase some products for less than $15; however, they may not last as long as some higher-end products and need to be reapplied regularly. Many paint sealants are available between $20 and $40, and pricier options typically do a better job of repelling water and protecting surfaces from damaging UV rays.
