Is Ceramic Coat Worth It? Find out

Ceramic coating has been one of the most popular car care solutions for a few years now. It is a liquid polymer that bonds chemically with a vehicle’s surface, creating a thin but durable protective layer.

The best ceramic coatings are marketed as a way to protect your vehicle from light scratches, UV rays, bird droppings, acid rain, and other potentially harmful substances. However, the question remains: is ceramic coat worth it? Read on to find the answer.

The Money Argument: How Expensive Is It?

One of the biggest concerns for most car owners is the cost of ceramic coating. Professional ceramic coating can be quite expensive, ranging from a few hundred dollars to thousands. So, it might seem like ceramic coating is priced out of reach. But is this really the case?

Unless you’re going for a professional coating—which is well worth it, by the way—you really don’t have to spend so much. Companies offer DIY and sprayable coats that are pretty inexpensive. Of course, you’d have to do all the manual labor of prepping the car for the process and applying the product.

How Much Difference Does Ceramic Coating Make?

Ceramic coatings offer numerous benefits over traditional wax or sealants. For one, ceramic coatings provide better protection against contaminants and minor scratches. The nano-coating creates a hydrophobic layer that repels water, dirt, and other pollutants, making the vehicle much easier to clean up. It also provides a high gloss that enhances the vehicle’s appearance.

Ceramic coatings have a higher durability rating than traditional wax or sealants, lasting several years with proper maintenance. Ceramic coatings can also protect against UV rays, which can fade and oxidize paint over time. In contrast, traditional wax or sealants may only last a few months before needing to be reapplied.

Another advantage of ceramic coatings is their ability to resist extreme temperatures. Ceramic coatings can withstand temperatures of up to several hundred degrees, making them ideal for people living in hotter climates.

Is Ceramic Coat Worth It or Not?

Ultimately, whether a ceramic coat is worth it or not comes down to personal preference and how much you value the benefits it provides. Some car owners swear by it and won’t drive without it, while others think it’s just another marketing gimmick. To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at the types of vehicles that are best suited for ceramic coating.

Which Car Needs a Ceramic Coat?

Vehicles that are well-maintained, washed regularly, and kept in near-perfect condition would benefit most from a ceramic coat. These are typically garage-kept cars that are driven regularly but not abused. The owners of these cars often care deeply about their vehicle’s appearance and want to keep it looking its best for as long as possible.

A ceramic coat is also ideal for vehicles that are driven in all conditions, including harsh weather, as it provides superior protection against contaminants and minor scratches. Additionally, if you’re the type of car owner who enjoys keeping your vehicle clean and spotless, then a ceramic coat is a great investment. Its hydrophobic properties make it much easier to clean, as dirt and grime slide right off the surface.

Furthermore, if you plan on keeping your car for a long time, a ceramic coat can help preserve its resale value. The coating will protect the paint from oxidizing and fading, keeping it looking newer for longer.

Which Car Doesn’t Need a Ceramic Coat?

There are several reasons why a car may not need ceramic coating. If you own a daily driver that’s beat down and has deep scratches, gouges, and paint chips, a coating won’t be a good idea. The coat will harden on top of the paint imperfections and will need to be sanded down to repair the paint. So, you’re better off waiting until the pain is fixed before coating.

On the flip side, if you have a vehicle that’s rarely driven and kept in a garage, out of the sun most of the year it may not need a ceramic coat. Such a vehicle doesn’t really need the extra protection. You can just wax it instead to give it a deep glossy shine.

Another scenario where you may not want to invest in a ceramic coat is if you’re looking to sell the car. In that case, a sealant or wax may be a better option to bring out the color and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

To Ceramic Coat or Not to Ceramic Coat?

The question of whether a ceramic coating is worth it or not is one that ultimately depends on the individual and their needs. If you’re looking for long-term protection, ease of cleaning, and a high-quality finish, then a ceramic coating may be the best choice for you—see our DIY application guide.

However, if you don’t have the budget for it or if you don’t have a car that is in good condition, you may want to consider other options, such as sealants or waxes.