Giving your car a nice wash by hand is always a satisfying experience, and going to a car wash can put your paint at risk. At home, we’ve got soap, we’ve got water, and we can apply some wax to keep our car looking great. Beyond that, we can also apply some ceramic coating to really keep the exterior of your car in prime condition for years to come.
What is ceramic coating? Unlike wax, ceramic coating is a liquid polymer designed to protect your vehicle’s exterior. Wax also adds some protection, but mostly protects the paint job from UV rays. When it comes to ceramic coating, it bonds with the paint on a chemical level. Ultimately, this creates another layer of protection over the clear coat of the vehicle.
The end result is a shiny car that looks like new and can defend itself from the elements. However, how long it lasts isn’t certain, as it will depend on a number of factors. One car owner mentions, “The coatings I used typically still look pretty good after two years. However, at the three year point you can tell it’s time to give them a good polish and correct the paint.”
How long does ceramic coating last?
How long the ceramic coating lasts depends on its type, its quality, and its maintenance. Professional-grade ceramic coating claims it can last for 10 years, while other sources say anywhere from two to five years. Even Redditors who prefer waxing agree that professional ceramic coats can enjoy a lifespan of five years or more. A decade sounds like a rare chance, but it depends on a number of factors for how long ceramic coating can last. As one Reddit user notes, “3+ year coatings are ridiculous and will never last if they are not maintained…I recoat vehicles yearly, just to keep a healthy layer on top of the paintwork.”
So is ceramic coating worth it? High quality ceramic coatings, like those of professional grade, will definitely last longer than others. Designed to be applied in layers, the more you add, the better your car can withstand environmental hazards like UV rays, bird droppings, and even water spots. Can it withstand scratches and dents? Sure, minor scratches aren’t something to worry about, but ceramic coating isn’t indestructible. For instance, you can’t polish the stuff. If you do, this will reduce the hydrophobic properties of the ceramic coating.
Dirt, water, and even grime can be brushed or sprayed off when the ceramic coating is kept in good condition. Ceramic coating requires maintenance. Sometimes this can be as easy as reapplying the coating every couple of months to increase its lifespan. In most cases, ceramic coating takes care of itself. Just try to avoid exposing it to harsh conditions like extreme heat or cold, and don’t use harsh chemicals when you give it a wash. If you can, avoid rock chips, which can eventually break through and expose your paint to corrosion and faded color.