Not sure if I have 1 step or 2 step paint (base coat/clear coat) on my car. Does this affect how I would care for my paint?

 

Yes, some single stage products will damage bc/cc paint. Just use products that say clearcoat safe.

If you can find a hidden spot, such as under weather stripping, then you could sand a little bit of the paint with some 400 grit or so. If it makes white powder then you have a clear coat, and if its red/orange? then its prob single stage.

 

If you use a simple carnauba cleaner wax, pre-wax cleaner, or even a light polish or scratch remover, it should bring up some car color on the applicator during normal application.

If you're just waxing by hand or random-orbital, and using regular consumer products (even a 3-step system), it really makes no difference. Most everything is clearcoat-safe these days (either read the front or back side of the label).

If you do have a clearcoat -- or are not sure -- avoid extended use of a rubbing compound (usually only used for heavy oxidation) and other strong products and you'll be fine.