Ceramic Coating for Cars: Protect Your Investment
Your car is more than just a mode of transportation – it’s an investment. And like any investment, you want to protect it from the elements and keep it looking its best for years to come. That’s where ceramic coating comes in. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at ceramic coating for cars and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice among car enthusiasts.
What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that’s applied to a car’s exterior surfaces. It creates a protective layer that’s resistant to UV rays, acid rain, bird droppings, and other environmental contaminants. Unlike traditional wax, which needs to be reapplied every few months, ceramic coating can last up to 5 years with proper maintenance.
Benefits of Ceramic Coating
- Protection: As mentioned, the ceramic coating provides a high level of protection against environmental contaminants. This is especially important if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or have to park your car outside for long periods of time.
- Easy to Clean: Ceramic coating makes cleaning your car a breeze. Dirt and grime won’t stick to the surface like they do with traditional wax, making it much easier to keep your car looking clean.
- Improved Appearance: Ceramic coating gives your car a glossy showroom finish. It enhances the color and shine of your car’s paint, making it look brand new for longer.
- Cost Effective: While ceramic coating may be more expensive than traditional wax, it’s a cost-effective solution in the long run. With its long-lasting protection and easy maintenance, you’ll save money on car detailing in the long run.
How to Apply Ceramic Coating
While you can apply the ceramic coating yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. A professional detailer will ensure that the coating is applied correctly, and will use a high-quality ceramic coating product to ensure the best results.
When choosing a ceramic coating product, look for a reputable brand such as Gtechniq, CarPro, or Ceramic Pro. These brands offer high-quality products that are designed to last and provide the best protection for your car.
In conclusion, ceramic coating is a great investment for anyone who wants to protect their car’s paint and keep it looking its best for years to come. With its long-lasting protection, easy maintenance, and improved appearance, ceramic coating is becoming an increasingly popular choice among car enthusiasts. Consider getting a professional ceramic coating application for your car today, and enjoy the benefits of a protected and polished ride.
You’re tired of taking your car to the garage for frequent paint jobs and washing. You wish for something that lasts at least one year or more.
That’s where the best ceramic coating for cars kicks in. Once applied, you won’t have to worry about scratches, stains, and damage to your factory paint.
Overall, it’ll give your car a bright and long-lasting shine outmatched to any other coating solution.
Why Best Car Ceramic Coating Needed
Technology has advanced, and so have car paint products. Ceramic coatings don’t just sit over the car paint; rather, it bonds with the paint for effective protection and durable performance.
The ceramic coating is a hydrophobic product that protects your car exterior from water, stain, oxidation, and bird droppings. It prevents scratches and chemical etches.
Finally, it facilitates easy cleaning. The dirt and droppings don’t get a chance to settle in. Thus washing time cuts in half. Overall, ceramic coatings can seem costlier than waxes. But since they last longer and need less maintenance, they’re comparatively more cost-effective.
But here’s the catch, you must find the right product that suits your specific needs and car exterior.
Best Ceramic Coating For Cars Comparison Chart (Top 11 Picks)
Top 11 Best Ceramic Coating for Cars
Many people, many minds. That is what makes the world beautiful. And that’s why a product comes in different variants. Given the requirements, coating level, durability, ease of application, the best car ceramic coating can be disparate for different people.
Users should not confine themselves to a single choice just because someone said so. They should make an informed decision based on reviews and facts. We’re here, with an exclusive product list and their reviews.
1. Armor Shield IX DIY Kit | Best Ceramic Coating for Cars
Our best of the best pick. We discovered Armor Shield IX DIY Kit is the best choice for the daily driver or weekend warrior seeking ease of application, long-lasting outcomes, and overall excellent quality.
We used (Tesla X) in our test and found incredible differences. Our Tesla looks great; the coating is superbly easy to scrub and hydrophobic. We also examined in some competitive wintry weather and were inspired by its capacity to guard against grimy snow and salted roads.
We discovered it was smooth to use and spread and required little or no buffing strain (some other coatings tested required some critical arm power).
A complete kit saves time and hassle for both beginners and pros, especially if they’re in a hurry. Keep in mind, AvalonKing brings a new set of DIY kit that contains everything you need to get the coating done.
It is made especially for ‘DIY enthusiasts’. That means you can leave behind the huge expenses to expert detailers as charge.
But is the product effective, though? Unlike many of cheap ceramic coatings, this one will last for at least 3 years. The deep, shiny wax look won’t fade immediately after application!
It’s also recommended by means of clean illustrated instructions and exquisite customer service. We obtained a series of beneficial instructional emails and hints.
Highly Recommended. Expensive
- The complete kit avails easy application.
- A DIY kit with the self-cleaning working mechanism.
- A deep 3D gloss that will last for at least 3 years.
- Clear instruction guide to help DIY application.
- The cap contains a plug seal to prevent leaking.
- Not the cheapest
- requires preparation for the awesome result
Although it’s not a deal breaker, it would have been better if Avalonking provided an edgeless towel instead of stitched one. You can still use it with carefulness.
However, this Armor Shield is moderately affordable, yet powerful ceramic coating and a rescuer for DIY lovers.
2. Migliore Strata Coating | Top-rated Car Ceramic Coating
Migliore Strata comes in a small bottle of 50 ml, but the effect is prevalent. This super glossy and rich ceramic coating doesn’t need much maintenance. It effectively protects your car paint from damaging contaminants.
The coating forms a hard shell that resists scratches and stains. Also, it doesn’t let stains, dirt and bird droppings sit on the surface. It has a self-cleaning effect. Thus, your car will need fewer visits to the garage. Also, the washing time will reduce in half.
This coating protects your car paint from UV rays and water-induced marring. Once applied, this coat will protect your car from UV rays, rain, sun, and contaminants for at least one year.
Despite being a high-quality coating, the application is surprisingly easy. Don Havourd, the man behind Migliore Company, wanted a solution for beginners. It comes with a complete installation package.
Seasoned users and newbies, both will be amazed by the high gloss finish Migliore provides. It’s better than regular wax or sealants because it protects the car paint and keeps it cleaner, apart from just giving it a shiny look.
- It’s made in the USA, a high-quality ceramic coating.
- It can be applied quickly and easily.
- The self-cleaning effect keeps contaminants away.
- UV resistance and water sheeting increase paint life.
- It can be used by both beginner and experienced users.
- It works well on Plexiglas.
- The curing time is short, so watch out.
One of the main challenges a beginner faces is grasping the idea of curing time. Often, the coat is cured before he/she expected it. Since Migliore has a shorter curing time, you need to be careful about that.
3. CarPro Cquartz 50 ML Kit | Best Nano Ceramic Coating
Cquartz is one of the most popular and discussed coatings among users. Why wouldn’t it? CarPro introduced a state-of-the-art formula with the coating solution. The formula makes the solution usable at colder temperatures.
You’ll like the look of the small 50 ml blue bottle. But that’s not important. What’s underneath the bottle is what makes it special. The solution contains 70% quartz with 99.9% purity. The quartz forms a thick surface of 0.7~1.5 micrometers.
The kit includes 5 microfiber cloths, an applicator, and the coating solution. The fast action formula makes using this solution extremely easy. The coating will protect your car paint for at least 2 years.
The quartz on the product makes this solution resistant to dirt, contaminants, and bird droppings. Also, the hydrophobic nature makes cleaning sessions easier and way shorter.
The product is intended for professional use. But beginners will find this surprisingly easy, although a small learning curve is attached to the process. The price is decent for the overall value it provides.
- It’s made of 70% quartz with 99.9% purity.
- Easy application thanks to the fast action formula.
- The self-cleaning effect makes the car look shiny.
- A complete application kit is provided.
- A high quartz ratio increases purity and deep gloss.
- The application includes a thorough prep job.
This is a great sealant. It can be used in different parts of the car. Being rich in quartz, it will give a super glossy look.
But the catch is coatings don’t clean the surface automatically. So if your car body is already contaminated, clean it thoroughly. Any impurities will damage the coat itself. But given the performance, the prep job is worth it.
4. Color N Drive Car Ceramic Coating Kit | A Good 9H Ceramic Coating
Color N Drive is a uniquely tailored coating unmatched by most of its counterparts. It comes wrapped in a nice package, and has two applicators and two microfiber towels. An optimistic person would say it’s a DIY person’s product.
The two applicator bottle has separate solutions in them. The bigger 150 ml bottle is a pre-treatment before applying your coat. And the smaller 50 ml bottle is the Nano-bionic coating solution itself.
Although the bottle might look small, you should be able to cover two cars with this. CND provides 9H hardness, which is the best you can get. Once applied, it’ll protect your car up to 5 years, depending on the climate and maintenance. Not many products can deliver that.
To be more precise, this coat will survive up to 100-150 car washes. The 3D gloss finish is attractive, deep, and won’t fade easily. CND forms a water-repellant surface that doesn’t let water sit on it. The same goes for dirt, acid rain, residue, and contaminants.
The product can be installed easily. The manufacturers provided an instruction guide to make sure of that. The sponge, and towels are all provided with the package.
- Nano-bionic technology car coating.
- Two coating solutions tailored for specific uses.
- It provides a 9H harness which resists scratch and damage.
- The self-cleaning effect keep the car shiny.
- Anti-acid, antistatic and anti-UV coating.
- Anti-calcium effect prevents water spots.
- The instruction manual should be more detailed.
The packaging, the custom coating solutions, and the complete kit, there are many reasons to love this product. The Nano-bionic layer will give an impression like a glass coating. As for instruction, there should be plenty of YouTube videos. If you don’t find any, feel free to email the manufacturers.
5. Nasiol ZR53 Car Ceramic Coating | Best Ceramic Coating For Headers
Nasiol ZR53 is a strong, long-lasting coating. I mean, you won’t find many products that can withstand pH-13 detergents. But Nasiol can and it can last up to 3 years from the time of application.
This is a Nanotechnology-based product. It bonds with the paint chemically instead of physically when you apply it. The hydrophobic surface doesn’t hold water or any kind of contaminants.
Upon application, the product forms multiple layers on the surface. The lower layer is flexible, while the upper layer has a 9H hardness rating. Together, they provide a water-repellant, anti-scratch veneer.
Nasiol is an all-purpose coating. You can use it for headlights, bumpers, taillights, and plastic rims. Contrary to most products, Nasiol gets crystalized at Nano-level but doesn’t do so at Non-Nano level.
The package contains everything you need and some more. You’ll get 10 application pads, 2 microfiber towels, 2 protective gloves and the solution itself. After application, it’ll keep the car away from mud, grime, and dust. You’ll always get that fresh-from-carwash vibe with your car.
- Nano ceramic coating, smooth and slick surface.
- It can withstand harsh materials like pH 13 detergent.
- Only one coat is enough for the ultimate gloss.
- You can use it on other surfaces apart from car paint.
- It has a life expectancy of 3 years and more.
- The bottle doesn’t have the shape of an applicator.
You’ll love the gloss Nasiol provides. It can withstand harsh chemicals and it protects your car from contaminants. The bottle comes with all the other kits you need to apply it by yourself. As for not having an applicator nipple, be careful about not spilling it.
6. Ethos Ceramic Wax | Best Ceramic Wax
You might be wondering why we’ve included ceramic wax in this list. Isn’t that they aren’t as effective as ceramic coatings?
Well, that question answers for itself. This isn’t your regular wax. Rather, it’s a fusion of ceramic coating and wax. This means you’ll get the high aesthetics wax provides while not missing the reliable performance of coatings much.
The solution contains a unique formula. It contains space-age polymers, 30% silica infusion, and pure carnauba wax infusion. Together, they provide a deep gloss, a mirror-like shine, and unmatched clarity.
The application method is as easy as pie! You can use your hands or a machine. Just wipe with your hands or buff with a rotary machine. You don’t even have to be experienced. Make sure you clean the surface with a shampoo before applying the wax.
The product forms a hydrophobic surface. It protects your car from UV rays, contaminants, dirt, and bird droppings. It can also be used on headlights to protect them from oxidation. Once applied, it provides protection for 1 year at least.
Not only paints, but you can also use this solution on glass, epoxy, stainless steel as well as motorcycle and windows. Being a 16-ounce solution, you should be able to use this product multiple times.
- It delivers a deep gloss and profound clarity on your car.
- It’s easy to apply, no expertise is needed.
- It provides protection against oxidation, scratch, and weather.
- This wax lasts for one year at least.
- The layer is non-sticky, thus, water repels quickly.
- You need to polish the dull surface beforehand properly.
- The surface leaves a white residue if forcefully hit by plastic or rubber.
It’s not just wax. Rather, it’s better than most of the regular waxes on the market. It has a rich SiO2 infusion which is basically the material of car coatings. Thus, it doesn’t fall short in performance.
But hey, that doesn’t mean it’ll be as hard as top ceramic coatings. It definitely meets most of the features and for such a cheap price, it’s a bargain for car owners!
7. CarPro Cquartz UK 3.0_50 | Best Ceramic Coating For Cold Weather
You might wonder, what the country UK is doing in the name of the product. Does that mean the product can only be used in the United Kingdom?
Not necessarily. The UK comes to represent a special feature this product has. You can use this product for 40F to 100F temperature range. Which means this coating works well under colder temperatures, regardless of the country it’s used in.
You’ll love the fact that this product has a great scratch and chemical resistance. Once applied, it’ll last 2 years and even more. It comes with a hardness equivalent to diamond, and water contact angle of 110 degrees makes it remarkably water repellent.
So why is this product so effective? This product is rich in high silica-quartz material that makes it suitable to use over paint and gel-coat surfaces. You can use it over paint, plastic and even metal.
The package includes two coating solution. The 100 ml spray bottle preps your car for further coating, while the 50 ml bottle comes as the original coating. Considering you’ll need 15 ml for an average car, you can use the product multiple times.
Apart from the two solutions, the package includes applicator block and 4” suede applicators and 16” suede microfiber towel. Not only this product will protect your car from dirt and grimes, but it’ll also be equally effective against UV rays.
- A complete coating kit that comes with clear instructions.
- Rich in high silica-quartz properties.
- It has superior hardness and a 110-degree water contact angle.
- It can be used under colder climate conditions.
- It can be used on metal, plastic, and paint surfaces.
- The application might be a bit challenging for beginners.
This is one of the top-rated ceramic coatings coming from CarPro. They enhanced the formula, and the effectivity is improved to the previous UK 2.0 model. The high silica property makes the surface durable and water-repellent.
But being high quality doesn’t necessarily have to be easy to apply. I mean, you might need help from a professional, but given that it’ll last for several years, the investment is worth it.
8. Sonax 236941 Ceramic Coating CC36 | Top DIY Ceramic Coating
Your car needs affectionate love, caring, and products that suit its body. Otherwise, your lovely car will quickly tarnish. Sonax CC36 is a suitable option to give your car the deep gloss and long-lasting protection it needs.
This product is a combination of two single-coating solutions. Each of them is custom-made to suit your car’s specific needs. Once applied, it’ll form a flexible layer with a special bond to the surface. But over it, a hard layer will protect the paint from harsh climate and chemicals.
The product is manufactured in Germany. Once applied, you can rest assured of the protection for at least 1 year. But if you use this product with the polymer net shield sold by the same manufacturer, the combination will last 3 years!
The veneer is super-hydrophobic. That means it’ll hold no salt, tar, or industrial pollution. Also, you’ll get a water repellency unrivaled to most products.
The kit includes all the stuff you need to get started. You’ll find the setup prominently convenient whether a beginner or a professional. The microfiber cloths, applicator, and hand gloves will allow you to get started right after the purchase.
- The package includes a complete kit and tools.
- It protects the car against salt, debris, tar, and contaminants.
- It lasts up to 3 years when used with a polymer shield.
- The applicator and bottle are marked for convenient use.
- Both novice and seasoned users can install it.
- The application process is time-consuming.
Applying the solution to the car is a bit complex. You need to select a 2’x2′ and apply the base coat there. Then you have to buff after 30 seconds. When the process is done for the whole car, apply gloss aerosol for an extended impression.
Doing the process might take time. But trust me; you’ll love what you see after all is done.
9. GYEON Quartz Cloth Q² Syncro Kit | Awesome Ceramic Coating Kit
The main problem with regular coatings is, they’re all all-purpose solution. I mean, neither they take into account the prep work nor they provide any solution for that. This makes the prep job hugely dependent on the user. And it’s the area where newbies mess up.
The Gyeon comes with a 3 solution formula that makes the prep job, coating and curing mostly covered. You’ll find no other coating giving this much attention to each stage.
The Q² Syncro comes with three bottles, each one serving a different purpose. The Q² MOHS is used as the base coat. It forms two layers of base coat which prep the surface for the top coat.
The Q² SKIN is the top coat. It has a high gloss appearance and is chemical tolerant. In fact, it can withstand pH-11 compounds. It has a highly repellent surface that removes dirt and water and reduces the friction effect of mitts during washing.
As if that wasn’t enough, the Syncro offers a final coat. The Q² Cure is the final coat that works a cure and enhances the repellency feature provided by the Q² Skin. Once applied, the combination provides 2 years of paint protection.
The kit has other auxiliary products such as Q²M Bathe, Q²M Iron, and Q²M Tar and Q²M Prep which aid in washing, removing impurities and prepping the car. But you would need to purchase them separately.
- A complete kit with 3 solutions and tools.
- The base coat is two-layered glossy veneer.
- The top coat minimizes friction and repels water.
- The final coat works as a curing solution.
- The manufacturers provide a detailed instruction manual.
- The product belongs to the high-range price sphere.
There is a saying, ‘you get what you pay for’. And that’s even truer for car products. You might find good products at cheap price, but that’s rare. On the other hand, some products might cost higher, but you’ll rest assured for a couple of years.
GYEON Syncro Kit is a product that delivers unrivaled performance. You’ll most likely end up getting value for every dollar you spent.
10. Hocossy High Gloss 9H Coating | Cheap Ceramic Coating
Just before we said that it’s not impossible to find good products at cheap prices, but that’s rare. Well, Hocossy High Gloss belongs to that rare species of products. For a low price, you’ll get the solution, suede cloth, and sponge, everything you need to get started.
The notable feature of this product is the hydrophobic veneer that comes as a result of 9H hardness formula. The hardness also makes the coating anti-scratch and mostly immune to harsh chemicals.
That’s why, your car will go through acid rain, UV rays, dirt, grime, and contaminants, but you won’t see a drop in the aesthetic quality of the paint. The Nanoparticles present in the formula makes the layer two times glossy than regular veneers.
Using the product is very easy. All you have to do is cover the sponge with the cloth, pour 1-2 drops of the liquid and apply in a straight line to a specific portion of your car. Repeat the process for the whole car. After the process, you’ll find the paint more glossy, shiny and mirror-like than ever.
- It protects the paint for up to 6 months.
- The 9H hardness provides 30 um thick layer.
- It delivers a mirror full reflection effect.
- It guards the paint against UV rays and water spots.
- It has a high pH tolerance of 12.
- The curing time is shorter than you might anticipate.
It’s wont turn your head with fancy features and performance, but it’s okay for the price. You’ll get decent performance and a 9H hardness rated layer. As for the curing, it might take some time, but you’ll get the hang of it.
Read Also:Top 8 Best Jeep Hardtop Hoist Review available at here.
11. Adam’s Ceramic Spray Coating | Best Spray On Ceramic Coating
The product we’re going to review now is a unique product. Many people would love the product just because it brings the coating-application to a simple step, open and spray. I mean, is there any easier method than that?
The product comes at a cheap price. But that doesn’t mean it has a lack of features. The coating combines Nano-technology with the car paint protection job and the result, a 9H hardness rated coating solution.
Once you apply this, it’ll protect the paint for 6-8 much. That’s not much when compared to high-end products, but hey, don’t forget the cheap price and convenient application.
Speaking of application, the process is easy. Divide your car into imaginary panels and just spray on one panel at a time. Wait 1 minute and see the coating turning rainbow color. Don’t worry, it’s the way it cures. After 1 minute, buff the surface with a microfiber cloth. The final curing might take up to a few hours.
Once you’re done, you’ll get a slick, hydrophobic, chemical repellent surface. The coating will add deep gloss and shine to the paint. And the great thing is, you can use this coating for other parts like wheels, trims, headlights, glass, chrome and even bedliners.
- A unique spray coating solution for your car.
- It provides a 9H hardness level veneer over the paint.
- The application process takes a few minutes.
- It can be applied to other car parts as well.
- It adds superior shine, gloss, and depth to the paint.
- It’s not a full-on ceramic coating.
Most users were extremely satisfied with the performance that Adam’s CSC provided. It’s easy to apply, and take only a few minutes and no expertise. The 9H hardness should protect your car from dirt, contaminants and chemical pollutants.
It might not be a complete ceramic coating, but it’s as close as it can be, especially for the price.
Side by Side Comparison of Protective Car Coatings
You might wonder, are there any other options apart from ceramic coating? Well, there are. You’ll find Teflon coating and Glass coating applied to cars. They’re good in their own way.
But to help you decide which one is suitable for you, we’ve drawn a comparison between the three.
How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last?
It’s a common question users ask, ‘Are ceramic coating worth it?’ Buying and installing ceramic coating can cost you hundreds. And the obvious question follows, do they really last for a long time and pay every penny you spent back?
The coating forms a bond with the car paint and forms a layer upon it. The durability depends on how well the application was done, and the quality of the product itself.
Usually, these coatings come with a projected lifespan, which can range between 1-3 years. But if you maintain it properly, it can last even longer. In contrast, any rough clatter or applying chemical elements on the coating can reduce the lifespan.
Why you should use ceramic coating
There are a plethora of reasons why you should definitely consider getting a ceramic coat treatment done for your vehicle.
As implied above, you can undertake this step yourself. If hesitant, or want the perfect job done, you can ever hire a professional. However, the underlying message here is clear; the benefits that ceramic coating will provide you are unparalleled!
In this sub-segment, we’ll present the reasons why you should consider getting a ceramic coating!
UV damage protection
The first benefit that we feel surpasses all is the damage a coating will provide against the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Generally speaking, there will be moments where you’ll have to leave your vehicle under the sun. The resultant oxidation can damage the exterior of the vehicle and make it dull.
Since this process is often spontaneous and accumulates over time, you need to take one effective measure from the start.
Good ceramic coating will give you that by slowing down the process of oxidation by an exponential factor.
Protection against chemical stains
Another benefit that this might present is protection against any chemical stains.
Chemicals in the garage and in the environment are often acidic in nature. In general terms, they are fully set out to damage your vehicle’s exterior.
A good ceramic coating will prevent the stain from bonding with the surface. However, the only catch is that you have to remove the stain ASAP.
Cost-effective
The overall process of coating, as opposed to alternative treatments available for your vehicle’s exterior, makes this a very cost-effective option to consider.
If you’re planning to be financially smart and want a good return on investment, then a ceramic coating can help you get there.
Permanent protection
As mentioned above, a ceramic coating will provide you permanent protection against any damage or stain.
Once applied, you don’t have to worry about re-applying it from time to time. The chemical application isn’t similar to that of waxing your vehicle.
Hence, once applied perfectly, you’re technically good to go. Just make sure that you keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance!
Easy cleaning and maintenance
As far as maintenance is concerned, you won’t have to go over the top with ceramic coating.
This is because the composition of the coating includes a hydrophobic agent. As the name implies, it repels any water and doesn’t let it stick to the surface.
This makes the cleanup process very easy to keep up with, and will also drastically reduce the time spent cleaning your car.
Improved gloss
Let’s be real.
At some stage, we’ve all wished that our cars were more shiny and glossier.
With ceramic coating, you’ll be getting just that!
The particles of the coating fill the smallest pores on the surface. This evens out the surface and makes it more suitable for reflecting light, which adds depth and clarity to the texture.
Is ceramic coating an alternative of waxing?
In general terms, the ceramic coating can be used as an alternative to waxing. It is a polymer coating that bonds with the paint of your car and lasts for a long time. Compared to waxes, this one forms a more permanent and thicker bond. Also, it provides a hydrophobic nature that makes washing and cleaning easier. Finally, it provides better glaze than traditional waxes.
When describing the process, some experts often state that ceramic coating and waxing are essentials two roads that lead to the same path: to protect your vehicle’s paint job.
However, the main difference arises when it comes to considering the pros and cons of each. As implied above, the benefits that a ceramic coating can offer as opposed to wax are way greater than the other way around.
If you’re planning to get something done once, then you know what to choose. If you’re comfortable with renewing the job from time to time, then waxing is the way to go!
Will ceramic coating protect my car from scratches?
No. contrary to popular belief, a ceramic coating will not protect your vehicle from scratches or similar damage.
The main purpose that a ceramic coating serves is to protect the paint-job against elements that interact on a molecular level.
When it comes to scratches and other abrasions, the damage done is purely on mechanical terms.
The coating will, nonetheless, repel and hide minor scratches. However, if the impact is hard enough, scratching will be visible easily and require maintenance work.
How do I maintain my ceramic coated car?
We’ve clearly established the fact that maintenance for a ceramic coated car is easy and doesn’t require that much expertise. Now, we shall get to the heart of the matter. Some people think that there’s no maintenance involved once the ceramic coating is applied, which is wrong. Although less frequently, but you have to maintain a regular washing schedule.
The first tip that we’d advise you on is to make sure you clean your vehicle at least once every two weeks. Furthermore, make sure that you do so in a shaded region, away from direct sunlight. This will help you prevent water spots.
You should use a pH-neutral shampoo to clean the car, no chemical or rim cleaner is needed. You can apply the shampoo normally or use a sprayer to spray it and wipe it with a damp cloth. Avoid using air dryer after washing. Wipe with a microfiber towel if necessary.
Another thing we would highly suggest that you work with is using an appropriate soap for the cleaning job. These soaps are designed specifically for ceramic coated vehicles and do not include any harsh abrasives, chemical agents, or contaminants.
When washing, also make sure that you wash from top to bottom. This will help you save water and reduce redundant cleaning.
Last but not least, we would highly suggest that when cleaning your vehicle, use separate buckets and mitts for wheels.
Wheels contain microscopic dust particles that can seriously damage your vehicle’s exterior. Using the same mitt will essentially help you accelerate the process. Hence, it’s best to be careful and use different tools altogether!
Features To Look For When Buying Ceramic Coating For Cars
So, it’s clear that there are several types of coating solutions. Also, not all ceramic coatings are the same. There might be a product you like, but under different requirements and budget, you’ll find another one more convenient.
That’s why it’s important to know the features you need to evaluate before purchasing ceramic coating. Instead of falling for shiny commercials, you’ll be able to appraise the product by yourself. Take a look.
1. Durability
Most people opt for these coatings because of the durability and sheen they provide. They want to stay secured for a long time once the coat is applied.
Durability for ceramic coatings means the time they can stay intact and give the car a new look. Most of the products come with 1-year durability assurance at least. Higher end products usually last up to 3 years. With the right price, you’ll find products that last for a lifetime of a car.
2. Hardness Level
It’s basically the quality parameter for Nanocoatings. The hardness refers to the strength and ability of the layer to resist scratch and clanks. Higher hardness level will last longer despite harsh uses.
These coatings come with different hardness level. But the top one among them is the ‘9H’ hardness level. It’s basically diamond level hardness.
3. Ease Of Use
Obviously, you can opt for a professional to install the coating on your car. But if you have a budget restraint or the car is too exquisite for you to hand over to others, DIY coating application is an alternative.
But since all of us wasn’t born as DIY pundits, easy application of the product makes our life easier. Some products come with extensive instruction or application videos for the users. Also, make sure if the package comes with all the necessary kits needed.
4. Weather
Weather determines whether applying a ceramic coating is a cost-effective idea. For instance, areas where the car gets exposed to the sun frequently, need to use a ceramic coating. That’s because the UV rays can be harmful to the factory paint and you need to do a better job protecting it.
Same goes for areas where acid rain is a regular event. But in areas where the climate is usually cold, you don’t necessarily need a ceramic coating, considering the high cost might be a waste.
5. Car Age
If you’re looking to resell your car, perhaps you shouldn’t consider using a ceramic coating. Because due to age and repeated washing, car paints naturally thin over time. The next thing you know is the coating chemically bonding with the surface itself.
Car coatings are meant to apply over the paint. It forms a chemical bond. But when the bonding surface changes, it’ll induce a different chemical reaction.
6. Washing Frequency
While many people love to see their car into tip-top condition, they don’t like working for that much. Going to the washing garage or doing it yourself kind of feels too stressful sometimes.
The coating on the car surface is self-repellant. It doesn’t hold onto water and other pollutants. This means you’ll need lesser visits to the garage. Also, the cleaning and washing time will also cut in half because of the self-cleaning nature.
7. Usage Frequency
Well, the ceramic coating is a necessity for cars that are frequently used. I mean, why would you apply a ceramic coating on collectible classic cars, they are seldom used.
Cars encountering frequently with the sun and rough weather need an extra layer of protection, hence the coating.
The use also depends on the terrain the car runs on. If the terrain is rough and rocky, your car might encounter additional chipping and scratches done by small rocks and debris.
If you’re an occasional driver with weekend drives on smooth roads, you might not need a ceramic coating yet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What Is Nano Ceramic Coatings?
Answer: You’ll encounter the word Nano-coating a lot while looking for car coating products. It’s s superhydrophobic, and oleo-phobic product. That means water, oil, and other particles cannot stick to the surface. It also protects the paint from corrosion and UV-damage.
2. Will Ceramic Coating Protect My Car From Scratches?
Answer: It will and it should, but up to an extent. You see, they aren’t any all-immune veneer that can every blow. Yes, they’ll protect the paint from mild scratches, chippings, and debris.
But in the occurrence of rough clashes, the coating, as well as the paint, might be damaged. Same goes for spilling strong chemicals on the surface.
3. What Are The Benefits Of Ceramic Coating?
Answer: Well, the benefits are numerous. First, they protect your car paint and give it a glossy look. Second, they protect the surface from scratches and being chemically damaged. Third, they lower the need for maintenance and frequent washing. Finally, they last longer, thus better alternative to other paint protection solutions.
4. Can I Apply Ceramic Coating To My Own Vehicle?
Answer: You can obviously, but there’s a little learning curve involved. It’s always better to leave it to the professionals, but if you must, check the instruction manual carefully. Watch any videos provided with the package. Search on YouTube for application videos.
When you start, go slow. Divide the car into several imaginary blocks and go through the one after one. Make sure you cover all the area.
5. How Long Does Coating Last?
Answer: Well, they can last from as low as 6 months to as high as a lifetime. It all depends on the quality of the product, proper application and proper maintenance. Usually, average priced popular coatings usually provide 1-2 years of lasting assurance.
6. When To Apply Ceramic Coating?
Answer: Some people overkill it with coatings when there’s no need. On the other hand, some people take their car paint for granted and don’t bother any protection at all.
But here’s the rule of thumb. If you live in a sunny area or a place where acidic rain is common, you should use the coating. As for colder parts of the country, you don’t. Also, if you’re an avid driver who hit the road frequently, make sure your paint is protected and up for the challenge.
7. What Are The Different Kinds Of Ceramic Coatings?
Answer: There are several types of ceramic coatings. There are glass-ceramic coatings that last longer, then there are regular ones. But basically, the type is determined by the amount of SiO2. The more SiO2 a coating product has, the higher end it belongs to.
8. How Do Coatings Compare To Other Sealants?
Answer: There are many types of sealants when it comes to car paint protection. Wax, paint sealers, glazes, ceramic coating are used by car owners. But which one has the best performance?
As for durability, ceramic coating lasts longer. Sealant, glaze, and wax comes respectively in terms of longevity.
As for aesthetic value, the wax is the most pleasing. Glaze, ceramic coating and sealants all provide moderate aesthetic value.
Final Words
Ceramic coatings are all-rounder, protecting your car paint from damages and pollutants while making the cleaning job easier. But not all products on the market bear the same value.
It’s easy to get swayed with all the shiny adverts you see. Unknown manufacturers will claim their product lasts for a lifetime, while costing only a few bucks.
But, knowledge matters. So is the experience of hundreds of users. Instead of making a fool of yourself by using inferior products, go for the ones that come with detailed reviews and information.
In this article, we have reviewed the best ceramic coating for cars for you. Hopefully, you’ll find the right kind for you here.