Ceramic coating is one of the best ways to protect your car’s paint, as it acts as a shield against harsh weather conditions, including the sun, rain, and even bird droppings. It gives an extra glossy look, repels dirt and water, and makes your vehicle look fresher. But let’s face some truth – ceramic coating is not invisible.
If it is not applied properly or cared for correctly, it may begin to show signs of failure. And that shiny, glass-like finish that you were promised might start to fade faster than you expected. Here are the most common issues related to ceramic coatings, along with recommended ways to address or prevent them, if possible.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied to the surface of your car’s paint. When it hardens, it forms a hydrophobic (water-repellent) coat that gives it a shine and a layer of protection. A ceramic coat is not the ‘happily ever after’ solution for your car’s paint, but if properly done, it makes your car easier to clean and retains its new look for a long time. Now, here’s the catch: for ceramic coatings to work as intended, everything, from the preparatory work to the application, must be done correctly. If not, issues begin to manifest at a much earlier time than expected.
Common Ceramic Detailing Problems
- Water Sits On The Paint: One of the signs that a car has undergone ceramic coating is when water forms beads and rolls off the paint. If water starts to sit flat on the surface of your car, then that is a sign of a problem. It could mean that the coating is clogged with dirt or that it has eroded due to the use of chemicals.
- Coating Fails to Bond Properly: This typically occurs due to improper surface preparation before applying the paint. If there are traces of wax, oils, or dust on the surface, the coating will not bond properly to the surface. That means it may start peeling or flaking, or simply not work as intended.
- Streaks or High Spots: These are areas on the surface of your vehicle where excess coating was applied or not removed properly. They produce an irregular reflection and, over time, may cause the paint surface to appear rough. These spots not only make your car look unattractive but also do not protect it as effectively as they should.
- Swirl Marks or Scratches Return: Although ceramic coating can prevent minor scratches, it does not render the paint completely immune to them. If you see swirls return fast, the probable cause is improper wash techniques, or the coat is not applied thick enough or in an even layer to provide protection.
How To Solve Problems With Ceramic Coating
- Deep Clean: Sometimes, the coating is not at fault; it is just blocked. A proper wash using a coating-safe cleaner can help restore the vehicle’s performance.
- Polish and Reapply: When dealing with areas that have high spots or are showing signs of wear, the best course of action would be to polish the surface and then apply a new coat of the coating in question. This should be done by a professional to prevent damaging the paintwork on your vehicle.
- Choose the Proper Car Wash Products: Opt for shampoos with a neutral pH, and avoid using wax-based products if they are not compatible with ceramic surfaces. There are also ceramic boost sprays available to enhance the durability of the coating.
How You Can Benefit From AJ Professional Detailing
At AJ Professional Detailing, we have been offering car enthusiasts in San Jose and the Bay Area the kind of detail services that can only be provided by a company with extensive experience in the industry. Whether you need a new ceramic coating, want to correct a previous job that didn’t turn out well, or simply need advice on how to maintain that shiny look, we’re here to help. We take the time to prepare your car, apply coatings in an ideal environment, and ensure that our clients understand how to maintain their vehicles for years to come. If you’re experiencing issues with your ceramic coating, please don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our auto shop in San Jose.