Congratulations on investing in a ceramic coating! Your vehicle now has a sacrificial layer of protection that is harder, glossier, and more hydrophobic than clear coat. However, "Ceramic" does not mean "Bulletproof." Here is how to ensure it lasts 3-5 years.
1. The Two-Bucket Wash Method is Mandatory
The #1 way coatings fail is from swirl marks caused by improper washing. Always use two buckets: one with soap, one with rinse water. Dip your mitt in soap, wash a panel, rinse it in the clean water, then dip back in soap. This keeps grit off your mitt.
2. Avoid Automatic Car Washes
We cannot stress this enough. The nylon brushes in automatic tunnels act like sandpaper on your coating. Even "Touchless" washes use high-pH acids that can strip the hydrophobic properties (water beading) of your coating over time. Hand wash is the only way.
3. Use a pH Neutral Shampoo
Avoid "Wash & Wax" soaps. You don't need wax; you have ceramic! Wax can actually clog the pores of the coating, making it less water-repellent. Use a pure, pH-neutral shampoo designed for coated cars (we recommend CarPro Reset or Gtechniq G-Wash).
4. Dry with Air or a Plush Towel
Water spots are the enemy of ceramic coatings. Because the water beads so well, if you let it dry in the sun, those beads turn into magnifying glasses that etch minerals into the surface. Always dry the car immediately after washing using a leaf blower or a twisted-loop microfiber towel.
5. The Yearly "Decon" Wash
Once a year, bring it back to us for a maintenance wash. We use specialized iron removers to unclog the coating from industrial fallout and brake dust that normal washing misses. This "reboots" the water beading effect.
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Whether you need a ceramic coating or a deep interior clean, we are here to help.