This seemed too mundane and pointless to stick in GQ…
What is a safe method / substance to use, to “strip” (for lack of a better term?) old wax build-up off of a car, without risk of damaging the paint and finish???
Well, if you just want to strip off the wax, dish detergent will do a good job (which is why the recommend not using it to wash your car). I’m not sure, but I don’t believe it doesn’t have any effect on the paint or finish.
If you’re looking to remove old wax, oxidation, and other bad stuff and then wax again, go with a prewax like Mothers California Gold pre-wax cleaner, or some similar product.