Best Ceramic Coating for Cars in 2019 – The Truth About Car Coating

When buying a new car, people often go to showrooms or car vendors with a particular color in mind.

If they find that particular choice is available in factory colors, their mind immediately bonds with the car. Some people don’t get the preferred color and decide to change the factory color to the desired one.

After that, all they want is to protect that lovely, mind-blowing paint. This is where the best car ceramic coating comes in.

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer coating that is applied to a car’s exterior. This coating creates a layer of protection that cannot be easily removed or harmed.

Car owners mostly prefer the coating due to its low maintenance and long-lasting shine. It is a premium wax alternative, meaning that it does not break down or require reapplication every now and then.

For long lasting shine and fewer trips to the car wash, a ceramic coating is the best option for your vehicle.

Best Ceramic Coating for Cars in 2019

Ceramic coating is meant to protect the vehicle’s paint and exterior from UV damage.

When a car is frequently exposed to the sun, the paint becomes faded and dull due to oxidation. The ceramic coating protects the car paint from UV rays by reducing the oxidation rate.

The coating also protects the car from chemical stains caused by acidic contaminants. Say, for example, you accidentally spilled an acidic liquid on the car. As long as it is wiped off in time, the coating will protect the paint.

More than anything, ceramic coating makes cleaning easy as it is a hydrophobic veneer for cars. Water slides off easily, cutting the washing time by half. Compared to waxing which needs to be done every so often, ceramic coating is cheaper in the long run.

All these aspects of ceramic coating help in keeping the car looking new and glossy with minimal maintenance.

Top 12 Best Car Ceramic Coating Comparison table

Best Ceramic Coating for Cars (Top 12 Picks)

Ceramic coating’s usefulness has seen its use grow significantly fast over the last decade. As such, many companies are producing this gold paint for ceramics, giving consumers a wide variety of products to choose from.

One only needs to choose the coating that best suits their car and environmental needs. Take a look at the different products for ceramic polymer nanotechnology paint protection below.

1. AvalonKing Armor Shield IX – Best Car ceramic Coating I ever Seen

Our top pick. We found Armor Shield IX the best option for the daily driver or weekend warrior looking for ease of application, long last results, and overall quality.

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On our test vehicle (Tesla Model X) the difference is STAGGERING. Our Tesla is amazing looking, super easy to wash, and very hydrophobic. We also tested in some quite aggressive winter conditions and were impressed by it’s ability to protect against dirty snow and salted roads.

Specifically designed for weekend DIY’ers and hobbyists this coating has a simple application. We found it easy to apply and spread, and required very little buffing pressure (some other coatings tested required some serious arm strength).

It was also supported by clear illustrated instructions and truly excellent customer service. The kit itself was dispatched only 4 hours after ordering, arrived 2 days later, and we received a series of useful instructional emails and tips.

Highly recommended.

AvalonKing Armor Shield IX Pros & Cons

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2. Migliore Strata Coating – High Gloss Ceramic Coating & Car Sealant

I won’t sugarcoat it. Keeping your car in tip-top condition is a tough job, especially because of the maintenance works you need to do on a regular basis. Eventually, your patience might wear thin and you’ll look for convenient solutions.

Migliore Strata is one of these solutions. The Strata a low maintenance car coating solution that doesn’t need you to babysit it. It will provide effective protection against dirt, bird droppings, tree sap, and various types of chemical detriments.

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It comes with a self-cleaning effect. Most of the dust and debris won’t be able to stick to your paint in the first place. That means less work to do between and during your washing schedules.

UV rays and water drops are two sworn enemies of your car paint. They damage the sheen and build stains on the car body. Miligore coatings rich ceramic particles create a protective layer over the paint, providing UV resistance and water sheeting.

If you feel your car needs an immediate refurbishment, you can turn to this user-friendly sealant. No matter what skill level you belong to, it should be a piece of cake to apply it on your car.

Once applied, it will provide protection for 1 year and more. Also, the hard shell it forms makes it less susceptible to scratches and marring during cleaning.

This product cannot be compared with your regular sealants and wax. That’s because, apart from maintaining a high glossy look of your car exterior, this coating solution keeps the contaminants away and the car body cleaner in between regular washes.

Migliore Strata Coating Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
This product is better than your regular wax and sealants. However, keep a close eye while applying this coating, because it may cure within a short time. However, once you get the hang of the curing time, the application will be a no brainer.

3. Color N Drive 9H Car Ceramic Coating

This car ceramic coating sealant kit is the ultimate product for a DIY person. It provides the best ceramic Nano coating for cars at 9H Nano Technology. This coating provides you with a deep gloss shine with a durability of 5 years, about 150 car washes.

Unlike other products out there, one can apply this easily through the step by step guide. You also save on application costs that would otherwise be high when enlisting a professional.

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The 50 ml is enough to cover two whole cars as a user gleefully told us about it. This particular user used one bottle to cover a 2017 Camaro and was not disappointed as some were left over to cover his motorcycle.

For the Camaro and similar types of cars, the curing time should be 3 hours or more, but not below. Also, the temperature should be around 22◦C for the best results. Better yet, you can use this bottle to coat your car with even four layers, giving it extra protection from environmental elements.

This kit does not include a clay cleaning kit in it. However, for new cars especially, it is important to use clay cleaner. The seller suggests using light pressure on the clay since a new car is not all that dirty.

Ultimately, unless you paste polish your vehicle, claying the surface is unnecessary. Using clay, no matter the type increases the chances of scratching the surface. For the basic do it yourself ceramic coating for cars, the Color N Drive 9H Car Ceramic Coating Sealant Protection Kit is the best option.

Color N Drive 9H Pros & Cons

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4. Nasiol ZR53 Car Ceramic Coating | Best Nano Ceramic Coating For Car

Getting the desired luster with one single polish is the dream of every car owner!

If you don’t get the perfect shine in the first time, trust me, the second coat won’t make it exceptionally better.

Unlike many of its counterparts, the Nasiol ZR53 is a nanotechnology-based ceramic coating. This innovative coating bond chemically rather than physically with all sorts of car paints. With a single coat, it will effectively protect your car paint for up to 3 years.

This product facilitates a 9H water repellant veneer on the surface. Your car achieves a hydrophobic surface that’s easy to clean and doesn’t contain water. As a result, it gets super easy to clean out dirt, mud and grimes from your car.

The Nasiol is an all-out solution, which means it can be applied to the bumper, headlights and plastic rims as well. The sealer gets crystalized at the Nano level when you apply it. At Non-Nano level, it doesn’t get crystallized.

It doesn’t completely harden top to bottom as you apply it. Rather it forms an intricate two layer coating. The top layer gets hardened and protects the paint while the bottom layer stays flexible. These two layers together ensure maximum elasticity and resistance.

Highly recommended for people who want the ‘just out of carwash’ vibe every time they look at their car.

Nasiol ZR53 Car Ceramic Coating Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
Adding a nipple would have been a nice touch, allowing the user to pour single drops. However, I’d trade that for quality any day of the week. Just be careful while opening it so that the liquid doesn’t spill. Also, make sure you apply it under a shade and minimize the heat factor as much as possible. You’ll get used to the curing cycle sooner than you think.

5. CarPro Cquartz 50 ML Kit | Best Ceramic Coating For Wheels

Your car might have the strongest engine, but an attractive paint job is how your car is judged first. CarPro knows that and that’s why they came with a formula that can protect your paint job.

The CarPro Cquartz 50 ml Kit comes with a unique formula. 70% of the solution is quartz at 99.9% purity. The quartz form a hardened layer that is 0.7~1.5 micrometers thick and makes the surface scratch resistant.

CQuartz shows a hydrophobic nature that is unmatched to most ceramic coating solutions. It has a high water and oil repellency. Dirt, debris, grime and water cannot settle on the surface. The anti-calcium effect stops minerals from bonding to the surface.

This is a long lasting ceramic coating. Even if you apply detergent, alkaline or use pressure washer, the veneer will stay in pristine condition for 2 years. The fast action formula allows the user to apply it without complication. The package comes with a 50 ml coating solution, applicator, five microfiber clothes and back view mirror hanger.

CarPro Cquartz 50 ML Kit Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
This product can be applied on different surfaces apart from the car body. This gives you freedom to apply it to others parts too. Just remember, this is a sealant. It won’t perform a do-over on your paint job. Also, make sure the car is wiped and prepped properly. If there’s any impurity on the paint, it’ll hamper the coating. That’s a lot of work, but the glossy finish and semi-permanent coat is worth it.

6. Ethos Ceramic Wax 9H | Best Ceramic Wax

If you’re tired of using ceramic wax over and over, wait until you use Ethos Ceramic Wax 9H. According to many, this is the shiniest, sleekest, most easy-to-use wax cum ceramic coating on the market.

You don’t need any previous experience or expertise to use this wax. Just apply it through hand or machine, buff the surface and wipe any additional residue. You’ll get mirror like reflection and sleek outlook for the next 1 year.

So what makes this coating so effective? Well, this solution is infused with 30% SiO2 SILICA, which provides clarity, shine and protection. The layer it’ll form is non-stick and water repellant, so you won’t break a sweat while cleaning it.

When you apply the wax, only a few drops will construct a hardened surface over the paint. The super hydrophobic veneer will keep oxidation, water drops, dirt and mud away from the paint. Every time you wash your car, it’ll look like a brand new car.

Not only cars, this product can be used on other vehicles and surfaces like motorcycle, epoxy, windows, fiberglass, stainless steel etc. Overall, this coating brings a nice balance between price and quality. Different kinds of spray in bedliners are used to spray on truck.

Ethos Ceramic Wax 9H Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
This is one of the popular waxes on the market. It delivers better performance and stays around longer than usual waxes. You’ll find the application process particularly easy, although the prepping might need time and expertise. Make sure to keep the coating safe from friction and harsh impact.

Read About: 10 Best Floor Mats for Jeep Wrangler in 2019

7. Sonax 236941 Ceramic Coating CC36 | Best DIY Ceramic Coating

Sonax 236941 isn’t your traditional wax or ceramic coating. Rather, it does some more. This two-stage coat shields your painting with a flexible covering. It forms a special bond with the surface that protects the car against environmental factors.

Instead of waxing your car 2-3 months apart, you can use this product and stay relaxed for one year at the very least! Made in Germany, this product provides an instant deep gloss and sleek look in your car.

The protective blanket also provides other advantages. It will keep your paint scratch free, protect it from UV rays, moisture, road grimes and bird droppings. The hydrophobic nature of this coating doesn’t let water sit on for longer. Thus, water drops, road salts, and pollution cannot leave swirl marks on the surface.

The Sonax CC36 kit comes with everything you need to get started. It is a two-part aerosol system. The kit includes a base coat and gloss coat which you apply one after another. The package also includes hand gloves, a suede microfiber, and applicators.

The aerosol and applicators are clearly marked. The applicator pads are of different sizes. The quantity is 2 ounces which are enough for one small car, perhaps even a mid-sized one too. Overall, the product is easy to use even for a noob user.

Sonax 236941 Ceramic Coating CC36 Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
This is a great ceramic coating with long lasting effect. You have to apply the base coat to a 2’x2′ and buff 30 seconds later. Doing that for the whole car and the using gloss aerosol will take time. However, the results are definitely worth the effort. And this coating makes future cleaning sessions easier and faster.

Sonax Cc36 Vs Cquartz

Well, both are amazing products, that’s for sure. The Cquartz come slightly pricier than Sonax. As for effectivity, Cquartz lasts for a longer time (2 years) than Sonax CC36 (1 year). Both come with additional accessories, but the CC36 accessories are easier to use for a new operator. Other ceramic coating comparison guide available here.

8. CarPro Cquartz UK 2.0_50 | Best Ceramic Coating for Cold Weather

CarPro Cquartz UK is developed in the United Kingdom. Why the place? Because this ceramic coating is specially made for cold environments. And any car user knows, this is the climate where most ceramic coating struggles.

So how Cquartz UK 2.0 makes sure the coating stays in pristine condition despite cold weather? By two steps. First, they increased the level of silica-quartz material to a freaking 70%. This made the glass layer coating more pure and stronger.

Secondly, a new carrier was used with the existing formula. The fast flashing formula improved the curing for lower temperatures. The result? You can apply it near, even below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The formula increases the water repellency and depth of gloss to an incredible level.

This kit comes with complete tools. The package includes 50 ml Cquartz UK 2.0, 100 ml CarPro Reload Silica Spray, microfiber suede applicator, applicator block, and a microfiber towel. Basically, you won’t have to buy anything extra to start working on your car.

CarPro Cquartz UK 2.0_50 Ceramic Coating Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
It’s hard to find ceramic coatings that work on cold temperature. This makes the situation hard for car users in some regions and seasons. CarPro Cquartz UK 2.0 eliminates the challenge by its enhanced formula. On top of that, it’s the same formula that assists in better performance and deeper gloss.

Read If you wanna enjoy in drive: Best Subwoofers for Car in 2019 for Good Audio

9. GYEON quartz Cloth Q² Syncro Kit | Best Ceramic Coating Kit

What’s the main challenge that comes with applying ceramic coating? It’s prep work. Almost all the coating solutions are the same, more or less. But depending on how you prep the car beforehand, you’ll see different results. And trust me, prepping takes a lot of time.

Users often look for a solution that can effectively reduce the work and time. And no other ceramic coating can do it better than GYEON quartz Cloth Q² Syncro Kit. This product delivers an astonishingly silky surface and the ‘wet’ look, something ceramic coating users crave for.

The package contains three coating solutions. First of them is Q² MOHS. It provides two base layers for your car paint. After that, the Q² MOHS is used as the top layer. It increases a layer and gloss of its own. Finally, you have to use the Q² Cure for final curing that provides sublime water repellency.

Together, these 3 layers provide a protection none other counterparts can provide. The layers have that ‘wet’ look, they are chemical resistant and pH tolerant from 2-11. Once applied, the Syncro kit provides a 9H hardness layer that lasts for 2 years at least.

GYEON quartz Cloth Q² Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
Most products barely provide one layer of coating. And even if you get so, there’s the question of durability. Frequent washing can damage the coat and reduce its performance. But with GYEON quartz Cloth Q² kit, you can basically cover 2 base layers and one top layer, and then curing. Each of these layers will further increase the gloss, thickness, and durability of your ceramic coating job. It’s well worth the money.

10. Hocossy High Gloss 9H Nano Ceramic Coating | Best 9h Ceramic

Here we come with yet another high quality ceramic coating solution. Hocossy 9H probably won’t fall behind in terms of quality, but comes at a lot cheaper price. The complete kit includes coating solution, sponge and cloth, and that’s pretty much all you need.

The product is easy to use, just apply 1-2 drops on the sponge covered with cloth and use over the paint. Upon application, the coating will form a 9H diamond hardness layer that is both anti-scratch and hydrophobic.

The covering over your paint job will look like a mirror, bright, shiny and reflective. The layer containing Nano particles will look two times brighter than regular coatings. Also, the glaze and color of the paint will be restored.

This ceramic coating provides a lot of different protections. It protects the paint from rust and oxidation effect. It makes the car surface less susceptible to weather and moisture. Finally, it forms a hydrophobic layer that repels dirt, water drops and grimes.

Hocossy High Gloss 9H Coating Pros & Cons

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Bottom Line
This is a pretty standard ceramic solution. The application method is pretty much like Cquartz. It won’t deliver velvet-like smoothness, but you can expect good water and dirt repellency. If the applicator block came with a tuck-edge, it would have been easier to use. Anyway, just be good with your fingers instead.

Read Also: Best restoration kit for Car and truck headlight to look at this year.

12. Car Guys Hybrid Wax Sealant for All Types of Surfaces

This is a wipe on clear coat for cars, infused with liquid Carnauba, which gives off a deep hydrophobic shine on all car surfaces. Cleaning car streaks is a bore and time-consuming task. And, the Car Guys Hybrid Wax Sealant eliminates streaks on any kind of surface.

Worse than having streaks are white residue after buffing the wax off. Thankfully, this product ensures that you get a glossy car exterior devoid of both.

A funny thing about this product is, some customers took the description “for all types of surfaces” quite literally. One even asked if she could use it on her skin after a shower to keep her skin moist.

What is more, another user responded confirming that it had worked quite well for him and that it also protected the skin from UV damage.

It should be noted that this is a car product and as such not suitable for skin, which is very sensitive and not as tough as the exterior of the car. Despite seeing and experiencing good results on the body, the chemical compounds in the wax sealant are harmful, and this may be apparent sometime after the fact.

Instead, use it on your shower glass and knobs to keep them clean and protected. It is also suitable for areas around the home like counter tops and stainless steel.

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Read If you Need: Best All terrain Tires For All Seasons in This Year

13. Car Guys Liquid Wax | Most Ideal for Water Vehicles

This works similar to the Hybrid Wax Sealant above. However, it has the added advantage of being the best product to use on boats. Watercraft comes under harsh weather and environmental conditions and need all the protection they can get.

Additionally, you can use it on motorcycles, RVs, and even airplanes. The Liquid Wax provides a UV protective clear coat. It also lasts longer as you only have to apply it once or twice a year.

Customers attest to the super ceramic car coating quality of this product. One such user has used it on his BMWs and Porsche cars with very good results. He found it easy to apply and told us that his car still has its nice finish intact and feels slick. After four washes every other week, the wax is still intact.

Having bought other expensive finishes and waxes, users recommend the Car Guys Liquid Wax for all car uses. The car Guys acclaim that this wax should be the first product to be applied on a vehicle before all others.

Wax has a shorter durability period of about a month before it starts to break down. Since the sealant lasts up to a year, this means that the wax will degenerate faster and thus lessen the quality of the sealant before its one-year mark.

Thus, we suggest users to use the sealant first then apply wax over it. When the wax breaks down, you only need to wax again without affecting the sealant underneath.

For paint that has been neglected or is in bad shape, clay bar is highly advisable to get a good finish and durability of this sealant. However, you can still have excellent results without a clay bar, though having it gives you that extra level shine.

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Read if want: If you want to protect your truck from damage, you can read "best truck damage protection using bed mats".

Read Also: if you need best truck or car/SUV seat covers, you can read this article "top 12 best truck/car/SUV seat covers".

How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last?

Due to the high cost of ceramic coating installation, car owners wishing for the same are concerned about its lifespan. The chemical bonding between the ceramic coating and the car’s original paint forms a solid protective layer.

As such, it can withstand heavy vibrations and shocks. If the coating is done the right way and is washed properly, it can last the car’s lifetime.

However, it is good to note that the ceramic coating is not resistant to scratches. Improper handling of the car reduces the coating’s shelf life.

Side by Side Comparison of Protective Car Coatings

Ceramic car coating is akin to the second layer of skin over the car's paint. As such, it protects both the car and the factory paint it comes in from the external environment.

Take a look at some differences between three types of protective coatings for cars.

Features to Look for When Buying Ceramic Coating for Cars

Ceramic coating is definitely not the solution to just any vehicle. One has to consider many factors when deciding whether or not to coat their cars.

Typical advertising makes one believe that any type of car will benefit from this magical car skin, but this is not the case.

Before spending your money to have ceramic coating for your car, keep in mind the factors below:

1. Weather

Coating is best for a car that is frequently exposed to the sun. It protects from the strong UV rays and reduces the oxidation of car paint. As such, those living in areas that do not receive that much sun, do not necessarily need a ceramic coating for this function.

Other factors not being considered, the high cost of having ceramic coating on a car would be wasted for someone who lives in a very cold area that does not receive much sun.

Those in warmer climates and where there is the occurrence of acid rain are at a better advantage over the use of ceramic coating. This would be a much cheaper option for them in the long run when compared to regular waxing trips.

2. Cleaning Frequency

Car cleaning is a chore that many do not enjoy. This has therefore made ceramic coating a tremendous invention in the car world. Since it repels water, it is basically self-cleaning when it comes into contact with water.

Also, because it does not trap dust, the car remains cleaner, making cleaning less frequent and less intensive unlike without coating. People who live in dusty environments reap a lot of advantage in this aspect.

They are assured of their car’s protection from the elements and cleaning is also bearable. However, for a car that spends most of its time in the garage, this advantage of ceramic coating is not realized.

Since the car does not need frequent washing anyway, the appeal of coating is lost on it.

Read Also: How to wash your car before applying ceramic coating

3. Age of the Car

Let’s be honest, unless you wish to resell your old car, you should not be considering ceramic coating. Even if reselling, you have to consider some factors before giving in to the urge.

First of all, car paint thins over time due to washing, exposure to the environmental elements and chipping from scratches. Since the polymer in the coating chemically bonds with the car paint, a weak paint layer would mean that the coating would get into contact with the car.

The main idea is to have the ceramic coating cover the paint and not the bodywork due to chemical reactions.

Therefore, when the coating is in contact with the car itself, a different chemical reaction is realized, which is damaging to it.

4. The Frequency of Car Usage and Terrain

It goes without saying that a frequently used car would benefit a whole lot from ceramic coating. This is because it is more exposed to many elements in the environment that would otherwise diminish the quality of the factory paint on the car.

For a garage-bound car like those collectible classical cars, they do not need the extra protection. Another thing to consider with car use is the terrain where it is driven on. Vehicles driven over rough roads required extra protection from scratches and chipping caused by debris.

Although there are better options for such cars, having ceramic coating is better than relying on the car’s paint job. Additionally, cars that are used daily in sunny areas also need this extra protection to ward off the elements previously discussed.

However, if your car is only used during the weekend on smooth roads and in overcast weather, this extra protection is not necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Despite their hype, ceramic coatings have left consumers with a lot of questions as seen below. We tried to clarify the most usually asked ones, for the rest, a Google search will help.

1. Why use ceramic coating?

The ceramic coating offers your car protection from harsh environments. From strong UV rays and acidic rains to water resistance and repelling dust, ceramic coating is guaranteed to make your life easier. When the car comes into contact with dirty water, it slides off easily.

2. Is ceramic coating an alternative to waxing?

Yes. Once ceramic coating is applied, you never need to wax again or use abrasive washes. Cleaning your car becomes as easy as maintaining your windshield, and just as fast.

3. How long does coating last?

Ceramic coating can last for years, including the car's lifetime. As long as proper care is used when cleaning and using the vehicle, the coating should continue for a long time.

4. How is the coating applied?

To start, the painting is decontaminated to achieve a good bond. The coating is then applied in liquid form one panel at a time on the painted car’s exterior. For the best results, professional services should be acquired.

5. Can I apply ceramic coating to my own vehicle?

Absolutely. However, it is better to have professional help do it since it requires keen attention to detail. However, some dealers offer application kits for those who wish to do it at home with step by step instructions.

6. Will ceramic coating protect my car from scratches?

Sadly, no. As much as coating is beneficial to cars, it is not immune to scratches. If the application is not done properly, scratches cannot be avoided, especially if they were already there during use.

7. Are there different types of ceramic?

There are many ceramic coating products out there. The main difference is in the amount of SiO2 content. As such, when choosing your product, have in mind that the higher level of SiO2, the more durable it will be.

8. How should I maintain car cleanliness after getting ceramic coating?

Always have a regular washing regime as dirt accumulation leads to damage to the coating. Use a PH neutral shampoo for a pristine look. Also, avoid air drying your car and instead use a quality microfiber when drying.

9. Are ceramic coatings a sure fire way of no maintenance?

No. despite being highly durable, ceramic coatings needs regular maintenance. Taking proper care of your car is what makes the coating last longer.

10. How do coatings compare to other sealants?

Ceramic coatings are more durable in almost all aspects of protection. In addition, they have a higher gloss, and this is realized over time.

To conclude…

Ceramic coating has many advantages over other forms of coating. Most people prefer it as it protects the car’s exterior from damaging UV rays, reduces dust accumulation, is water resistant making cleaning less frequent, and is cheaper in the long run than the widely used waxing.

It is, however, critical to note that not all cars benefit from this great invention. Depending on the climate, the frequency of use and other factors, car owners have to carefully consider their options before deciding on the best protection to use.

Do not let advertisers make up your mind for you. Always do an in-depth research particular to your car or the surface that needs ceramic coating. For the best clear coat paint for cars, always choose the elite and top brands in the market. You are assured of high quality in this regard.