As an auto detailing company, we understand the importance of keeping a vehicle looking new and protected against the elements. One of the most innovative ways to protect a vehicle's paint and keep it looking new for years to come is through ceramic coatings.
Ceramic coatings are a thin layer of ceramic material applied to the vehicle's surface, creating a protective layer that is resistant to UV rays, acid rain, bird droppings, and other contaminants. However, to keep a ceramic coated vehicle performing at its best, proper maintenance is crucial. In this blog post, we will explain in detail how to properly maintain a ceramic coated vehicle.
- Wash Your Vehicle Regularly
The first step in maintaining a ceramic coated vehicle is to wash it regularly. Dirt, grime, and other contaminants can slowly degrade the coating, making it less effective over time. We recommend washing your vehicle at least once a week, depending on your driving habits and the weather conditions in your area.
When washing your vehicle, use high-quality car wash soap that is free of harsh chemicals and detergents that can damage the coating. Also, avoid using abrasive sponges or brushes that can scratch the surface of the coating. Instead, use a soft wash mitt or sponge and a two-bucket wash technique to minimize the risk of scratches.
- Use a pH-Neutral Cleaner
Ceramic coatings are sensitive to high pH cleaners that can strip away the protective layer. To avoid damaging the coating, always use a pH-neutral cleaner when washing your vehicle. pH-neutral cleaners are gentle on the coating while effectively removing dirt and grime from the surface. Avoid using acidic cleaners, such as vinegar or citrus-based cleaners, as they can damage the coating over time.
- Dry Your Vehicle Properly with the Right Towels
After washing your vehicle, it's essential to dry it properly to avoid water spots that can leave marks on the coating. We recommend using high-quality microfiber towels to dry your vehicle gently. Avoid using a chamois or regular towels that can scratch the surface of the coating. Microfiber towels are the perfect choice for drying as they are gentle on the surface and have excellent water absorption properties. If possible, use a blower to remove excess water from hard-to-reach areas, such as the side mirrors and door handles.
- Apply a Ceramic Coating Booster
While ceramic coatings are incredibly durable and long-lasting, they require periodic reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. However, you can extend the life of your coating by applying a ceramic coating booster between reapplications. A ceramic coating booster is a spray-on product that contains similar protective ingredients as the original coating. Applying a booster every three to six months can help maintain the coating's protective properties and keep your vehicle looking great.
- Avoid Parking in Direct Sunlight
Exposure to direct sunlight can degrade the protective properties of the coating over time. Whenever possible, avoid parking your vehicle in direct sunlight for extended periods. If you must park in direct sunlight, consider using a car cover to protect the vehicle's surface from the sun's harmful rays.
- Avoid Automatic Car Washes
Automatic car washes use harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes that can damage the coating over time. We recommend avoiding automatic car washes and instead opting for hand washing or touchless car washes that use high-pressure water to clean the vehicle.
- Avoid Abrasive Products
Abrasive products, such as clay bars or abrasive polishes, can scratch the surface of the coating and damage its protective properties. Avoid using any abrasive products on your vehicle's surface. If you need to remove contaminants from the surface, we recommend using a gentle cleaner or a clay towel that is specifically designed for ceramic coated vehicles.
In conclusion, maintaining a ceramic coated vehicle requires a little effort, but the results are worth it. By following these simple tips, you can keep your vehicle looking new and protected against the elements for years to come. Regular washing with a pH-neutral cleaner, using high-quality microfiber towels, and avoiding abrasive products and automatic car washes are crucial steps in maintaining a ceramic coated vehicle. Applying a ceramic coating booster every three to six months can help extend the life of the coating, and avoiding parking in direct sunlight can protect the coating from UV damage.
At our auto detailing company, we understand the importance of proper maintenance for ceramic coated vehicles. Our trained professionals use only the best techniques and products to keep your vehicle looking its best. Contact us today to learn more about our ceramic coating services and how we can help protect your vehicle against the elements.
