How To Wash & Maintain A Ceramic Coated Car

Ceramic coatings are essential for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Whether your ceramic coating was professionally applied or a DIY project, maintaining its quality is essential. 

The key to preserving its performance lies in following the manufacturer's guidelines and adopting the right washing techniques.

However, maintaining a ceramic coating isn’t as simple as it sounds. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for washing and maintaining a ceramic-coated vehicle.

What’s the Deal with Ceramic Coatings?

First off, what even is a ceramic coating? It’s like a shield for your car’s paint. It’s a liquid layer that bonds to your car’s surface and cures into a hard, protective finish. Most of ’em are made from silicon dioxide (SiO2)—fancy stuff from quartz and sand. Once it’s on, it gives your car that water-repellent magic (aka hydrophobic effect) that makes water bead up and roll right off.

If you’re curious about the science behind it, check out this blog about Gtechniq Ceramic coatings and why we recommend them.

Why Bother with Maintenance?

Now, I’ve heard some guys say, “Once it’s coated, you’re sorted—no more washing!” Nah, mate, that’s a myth.

Ceramic coatings are tough, but they’re not invincible. Dirt, dust, and all the muck from the road can still build up over time. If you don’t keep on top of it, that slick coating won’t stay slick for long.

A poorly maintained ceramic coating will lose all its great properties such as beading and providing you a faster maintenance wash.

However with a little effort a fortnightly or monthly maintenance wash will prolong the ceramic properties and it will last longer. Trust me, it’s worth it to keep that coating doing its job.

How to Wash a Ceramic Coated Car

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-with-dyed-hair-washing-a-car-6872153/

1. Keep It Clean

First rule: don’t let the dirt pile up. Wash your car fortnightly if you can. If life gets in the way (we’ve all been there), aim for every month. Regular cleaning keeps the coating working like a dream.

2. Wash It Proper

Ceramic coatings are tough, but they’re not scratch-proof. Here’s how we do it:

• Pre-Wash Foam: Start with a snow foam to loosen all the grime. We swear by BH Autofoam Snow Foam—it’s the business.

• Two-Bucket Method: One bucket for soap, one for rinsing your mitt. Grab the CAD Car Wash Bucket—it’s got grit guards to stop dirt from scratching your paint.

• Top-Notch Tools: Use a CAD Microfibre Wash Mitt and dry it off with a 3D Bead It Up Hydrophobic Spray On Ceramic. 

3. Use the Right Soap

Don’t go using dish soap, mate—it’ll strip your coating faster than you can say “oops.” Stick to a pH-balanced car shampoo like Duel Bahama Blue Car Shampoo. It’s gentle but gets the job done.

4. Top It Up with SiO2 Boosters

Between washes, give your coating a little love with an SiO2-infused quick detailer. We’re big fans of 3D Bead It Up - Hydrophobic Spray On Ceramic—it brings back that water-beading magic.

5. Dry It Proper

Don’t let water air-dry, or you’ll end up with water spots. Use a Microfibre Drying Towel or a blower to get it bone dry.

6. Keep Your Gear Clean

Dirty mitts and towels are a no-go. Keep ’em clean with a Microfibre Towel Cleaner to avoid scratches.

7. Avoid Automatic Car Washes

I know they’re tempting when you’re in a rush, but automatic car washes are a big no-no. The brushes and harsh chemicals can wreck your coating. Stick to hand washing—it’s worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

Getting your car ceramic coated is a proper investment, and maintaining it doesn’t have to be a headache. If you’ve gone pro, ask your detailer for their tips. If you’re a DIY warrior, this guide’s got your back.

For more tips on car care, check out our blog for the best tips on detailing. 

So, there you have it—our top tips for keeping your ceramic-coated car looking mint. Stick to this routine, and your motor will stay looking fresh for years. Cheers!

FAQs: How To Wash & Maintain A Ceramic Coated Car

Q: What is a ceramic coating?

A: A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to your car’s exterior that bonds with the paint and cures into a hard, protective layer. Made primarily from silicon dioxide (SiO2), it creates a hydrophobic (water-repellent) surface that repels water, dirt, and contaminants.

Q: Do ceramic coatings require maintenance?

A: Yes! While ceramic coatings are durable, they’re not maintenance-free. Regular washing (weekly or bi-weekly) is essential to keep the coating performing at its best. Neglecting maintenance can lead to contamination and reduced hydrophobic effects.

Q: Can I use any car wash soap on a ceramic-coated car?

A: No. Always use a pH-balanced car wash soap like Duel Bahama Blue Car Shampoo. Harsh chemicals, like dish soap, can strip the coating and reduce its lifespan.

Q: What’s the best snow foam for ceramic-coated cars?

A: The best snow foam for ceramic-coated cars is BH Autofoam Snow Foam. It’s pH-neutral, gentle on coatings, and effectively loosens dirt without damaging the ceramic layer.

Q: How often should I wash my ceramic-coated car?

A: We recommend washing your ceramic-coated car at least once a fortnight. If that’s not possible, aim for every month to prevent dirt buildup and maintain the coating’s hydrophobic properties.

Q: Can I use an automatic car wash on a ceramic-coated car?

A: No! Automatic car washes use harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes that can damage the ceramic coating. Always hand wash your car using the two-bucket method and proper tools.

Q: What’s the best way to maintain the hydrophobic effect of a ceramic coating?

A: Between washes, use an SiO2-infused quick detailer like 3D Bead It Up - Hydrophobic Spray On Ceramic. It enhances the coating’s water-repellent properties and adds an extra layer of protection.

Q: Can I polish or wax a ceramic-coated car?

A: Polishing is generally not needed unless you’re correcting paint imperfections before applying the coating. Waxing is unnecessary because the ceramic coating itself provides superior protection. However, you can use ceramic boosters to maintain the coating’s performance.

Q: How long does a ceramic coating last?

A: A professionally applied ceramic coating can last 2 to 5 years, depending on the product and maintenance. DIY coatings typically last 1 to 2 years. Regular washing and using SiO2 boosters can extend its lifespan. Really despite what some tins say the best will probably give you 2-3 years if well maintained, any claims greater than that haven’t been tested.

Q: Can I apply a ceramic coating myself?

A: Yes, but it requires proper preparation, including paint correction and surface decontamination. If you’re not confident, it’s best to have it applied by a professional.

Q: What’s the best way to clean my tools after washing a ceramic-coated car?

A: Use a Microfibre Towel Cleaner to keep your wash mitts, towels, and buckets clean. Dirty tools can introduce contaminants that scratch the coating.

Q: Can I use a pressure washer on a ceramic-coated car?

A: Yes, but use a gentle setting and maintain a safe distance (at least 12 inches) to avoid damaging the coating. Pair it with a snow foam lance for the best results.

Q: What should I do if my ceramic coating stops beading water?

A: If the hydrophobic effect diminishes, use an SiO2-infused quick detailer or ceramic coating booster to restore the water-repellent properties. If the issue persists, the coating may need reapplication.