Ideally, yes. Evaluating the condition of your finish will let you determine the steps needed to prepare it for waxing. Just because your paint has no major scratches or other obvious signs of damage doesn’t mean its surfaces are flawlessly smooth and free of contaminants. There are many kinds of subtle surface defects that, if not corrected, can prevent you from restoring that perfect gloss. Waxes will last longer and produce deeper reflections on a perfectly cleaned surface.