Tips For Maintaining Your Ceramic Coating

After you've had a ceramic coating applied to your vehicle, its essential that you maintain it properly. Ceramic coatings create a thin, protective layer on the vehicle's paintwork. This coating is designed to resist minor scratches and swirl marks. However, abrasive products can compromise the coating's integrity, leading to diminished protection and potentially even damaging the coating itself. In this blog post, we'll share some valuable tips to help you maintain and maximize the benefits of your ceramic coating.

1. Use the correct pH detergent. You'll want to use a wash detergent with a pH of 7. You can get by with pH levels of 6.5 to 7.5 but the main point here is be around 7 or pH neutral. This balanced pH ensures that the coating's integrity is not compromised during the washing process. Harsh, acidic or alkaline wash products can degrade the coating and reduce its effectiveness in protecting the paint.
2. Avoid abrasives. Abrasives and hard brushes can ruin ceramic coatings on just months. When it's time to wash your ceramic-coated vehicle, opt for a gentle approach. Use a pH-neutral car shampoo and a soft microfiber wash mitt or cloth. Avoid harsh brushes or abrasive materials that can potentially damage the coating. Rinse your vehicle thoroughly before washing to remove any loose dirt or debris that could cause scratches during the washing process.
3. Regular maintenance washes. Perform regular maintenance washes to keep your ceramic coating in optimal condition. Aim for a frequency of once every two weeks, depending on your driving conditions and climate. Regular washing helps remove dirt, bird droppings, and other contaminants that can degrade the coating over time. Avoid exposing your vehicle to harsh chemicals, such as gasoline, solvents, or strong acids, as they can compromise the integrity of the ceramic coating.
4. Avoid going to automatic washes. While ceramic coatings offer excellent protection, automatic car washes that employ brushes or harsh chemicals may compromise their longevity. The mechanical action of brushes and the use of strong detergents can potentially damage or degrade the coating. Opt for hand washing or touchless car washes that utilize high-pressure water and gentle detergents.
5. Use chemicals designed for ceramic coated vehicles. When selecting maintenance products, choose those specifically designed for use on ceramic coatings. Avoid using abrasive polishes, waxes, or products containing silicone, as they can interfere with the coating's performance. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for compatible products to ensure proper maintenance.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your ceramic coating continues to provide exceptional protection and longevity for your vehicle's paintwork. Remember, gentle washing techniques, regular maintenance washes, and using recommended products are key to preserving the coating's performance and keeping your car shining like new. Enjoy the long-lasting benefits of your ceramic-coated vehicle and the head-turning admiration it receives on the road! 

If you want to know about some of the benefits of ceramic coatings, check out our benefits of ceramic coatings blog post!