Overall Exterior Paint Care

[Yaris Newbie]

Ok, so after reading several forum posts I'm still a bit confused about the wax/polish/clean/erupt/glisten/frost/embolden (ok, I'm done) debate.

Maybe I am making everything a bit too difficult for what it has to be. There have been some wonderful posts on the topic, from people that seem to have a deep expertise with keeping a car protected and looking nice.
Among these, sorry if I omit but I would really like to hear from keesue, Nimble, bigsky2 among others on the questions I have remaining.

By the way, I'm only talking about OTC stuff (no super premium show waxes/whatever). 1800 bucks for WAX is unreal. 20-30 bucks for a decent product that lasts is an option.


*****From bigsky2*****

I believe Maguiar's clay bar is ok to use on a clearcoat paint finish. It is stated as being clear coat safe.

For waxing, I'm going to use Maguiar's Gold Class LIQUID Wax. It has been proven to be as effective as the paste. I like the idea that it's easy to apply, hence allowing you get a nice thin coat on it, and just as easy to remove.

I've a question though... I had a conversation with someone who is an auto detailer and he explained that a protecting the car is a 5-step process.

1) Wash - get rid of dust and dirt
2) Clean - get rid of scratches and other minor defects
3) Polish - brings out the shine in the paint, protects the shine
4) Wax - protects the paint from the environment
5) Maintain - all of the above

My question is, Is POLISHING necessary for a new car?

****End Quote****

A.)
I understand, now, that it is necessary. But what is a polish? Examples? What is a wax? Examples?

****From Nimble****

Wash
Spot dry (no need to fully dry since you're going to clay next)
Clay
Rewash
Fully dry
Polish
Your favorite LSP (last step product) i.e. sealant or wax, I prefer sealants.

****End Quote****

B.)
This post is super clear and concise, is this order the general opinion or the all powerful "Rule" that everyone follows?

For example, what I plan on doing is this:

1. Washing with a simple (biodegradable if it matters, I try to be green (hence the Yaris)) car wash formula.

2. Drying with this drying cloth I bought (Walmart, 6-8 bucks). I don't have it at hand but it feels rubbery when wet and if allowed to dry gets stiff and is not flexible.

3. Claying with Mother's clay kit. Might be Megs but I forget. Was a kit at wallyworld (where I got all the carcare stuff) that had a yellow clay bar in the box.

4. Re-washing with same wash as before.

5. Drying with same cloth.

6. POLISH?? WTF do I do here, with what, how!

7. Waxing with Meg's NXT paste wax. Maybe more than one coat, maybe not.


C.)
What the he*l is a sealant? Is every wax a sealant? Is every sealant a wax?

D.)
How to "touch up a job like this"? How often to repeat steps 1-7? Should I wash in between? Wax? Scream? Cry?

Please set me straight on this. I plan on keeping this car looking good for a good long while if possible and would like your opinions on protection/ease of care.