Polishing and waxing

Polish and wax the car if the paintwork is dull or to give the paintwork extra protection.

The car does not need to be polished until it is at least one year old. However, the car can be waxed during this time. Do not polish or wax the car in direct sunlight.

Wash and dry the car thoroughly before you begin polishing or waxing. Clean off asphalt and tar stains using tar remover or white spirit. More stubborn stains can be removed using fine rubbing paste designed for car paintwork.

Polish first with a polish and then wax with liquid or solid wax. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. Many preparations contain both polish and wax.

 Important

Avoid waxing and polishing on plastic, rubber and on parts painted in matte or semi-matte version.

When using degreasant on plastic and rubber, only rub with light pressure if it is necessary. Use a soft washing sponge.

Polishing glossy trim mouldings could wear away or damage the glossy surface layer.

Polishing agent that contains abrasive must not be used.

 Important

Only paint treatment recommended by Volvo should be used. Other treatment such as preserving, sealing, protection, lustre sealing or similar could damage the paintwork. Paintwork damage caused by such treatments is not covered by Volvo warranty.

Matte clear coat

When the car is painted in a matte clear coat, the following must be considered in order to avoid paint damage due to incorrect treatment.

 Important

Never polish a matte clear coat. Polishing leads to the paint becoming shiny.

Do not use paint cleaner, grinding agents, polishing products or sheen preservation, e.g. wax. These products are only intended for glossy surfaces. If they are used on matte paint then there will be significant damage to the surfaces (glossy spots).

 Important

  • If wax gets onto the matte paint surface then it must be removed immediately using standard type white benzene.
  • Make sure you do not get resin, grease or oil on the car's paint. They may leave residues. Remove immediately using standard type white benzene.

Proceed with caution and do not press too hard on the painted surface.