only 6k miles on my 2017 cx5 (black) and there's one paint chip already on my hood. I definitely need to invest in some wax but I'm not good at doing anything to cars lol i'm afraid I'll **** it up, plus I'll need to buy a buffer so I wonder if I should just pay someone to do it for me
Try this - A product called Ultimate Fast Finish from Meguiars.
Clean car/Wash car - clay bar it - use a compound to buff out scratches - add wax (optional) - spray UFF on MF Cloth and wipe it, turn to dry area and wipe it again - Add Wax (optional).
This will make dust stick less to your car - cleaning will be easy. Scratches will be on this coating if any - the coating lasts for 6-8 months and is 15 bucks a bottle - will last you 2 years or so.
Carfo - I never did any of this - offlate I was able to cure my hood (cure is take out scratches etc) - take out water spots that were etched due to my negligence. It is not difficult if you are just sensible about it. Its easy - just take step by step. These are my must have list of products after spending a lot of money on it:
1. ONR Wash and Wax - I love this product - it can be Clay bar lube / Quick detailer / Wash medium.
2. Good Wash mitt and good MF drying towel + applicator / buffing towel.
3. Applicator pads.
4. Scratch X or Meguiars magic compound.
5. Need something for cleaning black trim. I got the wax marks that paris warned about.
6. Stoners for cleaning glass.
7. Bucket and grit guard or 2 buckets
All in this should be about 8+20+10+10+10+10 = 70 bucks + buckets at $7 or so - should clean your car a lot of times.
As to OP - you cannot prevent nicks unless you have a clear bra - which if you plan to do will look awful in a year because the clear bra will have nicks now. It will reflect light and look even worse.
I would just add wax (no protection from chips - but good a medium in between).