Vehicle has been Ceramic Coated now what??

Congrats !! Your new Ceramic Coating has been applied and your vehicle is looking better than ever. Your coating will cure for the next couple of days to be a its full strength. During that time, some precautions should be taken.

Curing time is 2-3 days depending on environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature. Take special care during this time period. DO NOT WASH for first 10 days. Water is fine but chemicals shouldn’t be applied yet. This new coating will help protect your vehicle but within the curing period try to keep it dry and never let water stay on the vehicle as it could cause water spotting which could still be costly to remove.

Always, but more importantly during the curing process AVOID:

  • Parking under trees especially if there are shedding. You don’t want tree sap on a fresh coating.

  • Allowing bird droppings, sap or pollen to sit on the car and bake in the sun.

  • Washing or abrading the paint with any kind of chemicals.

If you notice that your car gets water spots, bird droppings, bugs, tree sap, or other contaminants during the first few days, immediately remove it following your detailers care instructions (water and soft rag should be sufficient). Keep in mind the coating is still curing. Be gentle when working on the paint.

Ceramic Coating Care Tips once Curing is Complete

Removing Contaminants

Your Ceramic Coating is extremely slick, this means most things will dissolve and be pulled off by the self-cleaning effects of your ceramic coating. Spray water or a vinegar mixture (50/50 with water) on any area to remove bird droppings, bugs, and tree sap. Followed by wiping it off with a soft edge-less microfiber towel.

Bird droppings, tar, sap, etc. should be removed as soon as possible to avoid temporary staining or hardening on the coating. Although the coating has the ability to withstand some contamination anything left on it for too long can still have negative effects causing breakdown or staining. Do not use excessive force to remove contamination as you could damage coating and your paint.

Washing schedule

For best results the car should be washed on a bi-weekly basis to avoid excessive contamination build-up. Of course this is not always possible but the sooner your vehicle can be rid of dirt and contamination the better it will look and the longer the coating should last.

Washing methods

Standard home washing

  • Proper handwashing is the BEST option for any vehicle regardless if it has a ceramic coating or not.

  • Use a foam gun (optimal) or microfiber wash mitt and a 2.5 gallon bucket with quality soap to cover the car.

  • Wash down starting from top of vehicle using quality wash mitts.

  • Rinse vehicle down with a pressure washer (optimal) or garden hose removing all soap and grime.

  • Dry with clean microfiber towels.

Spray ‘n wash self car wash bays

  • Select the high-pressure soap. Soap the car down (never use the provided brushes especially on the paint!)

  • Bring a small bucket with proper wash mitt and wash vehicle as described above.

  • Rinse soap and grime from car with the high-pressure rinse.

  • Dry with your own clean microfiber towels.

Automated Washing

Always go to a touch-free wash! Using an automated car wash with brushes will void any warranty the coating as they use harsh chemicals and typically undermaintained brushes that may scratch ceramic coating. The touchless or touch free option would be a better if you’re not able to handwash your vehicle. Although touchless may not leave your vehicle sparkling clean it will be the better option.

Drying

  • Always dry completely and never leave to air-dry. Tap and rain water contains minerals that may leave deposits creating water spots that may be difficult to remove.

  • Use quality microfiber towels for best results and avoid aggressive wiping. Use of drying aid is extremely beneficial as it add lubricity to the towel.

  • Use of forced air is always helpful as it allows the removal of water without the friction caused by wiping.

Wax or Sealant Application

There is no need to apply wax or sealant to your vehicle. Although this may not always effect your coating some products contain solvents and abrasives which can damage the ceramic coating. Contact detailer who installed coating for proper care instructions.

Annual or Semi annual Inspections

Annual or semi annual Inspections are the required process for ensuring the coating is maintained and care for the vehicle is properly executed. The inspections should be carried out by an approved applicator within 30 days before the anniversary date of the last yearly or semi annualy service to ensure peak performance and warranty validity. Although durable and long-lasting, the inspections ensure maximum gloss and protection from your ceramic coating. Any areas of breakdown will be address at the time. If properly maintained your vehicles coating will provide exceptional protection and aesthetics for years to come.