Regular Maintenance for Ceramic Coatings
Maintaining a Ceramic Coating, and understanding how to, is the absolute most important part of owning a ceramic coated vehicle. The hard work was done of applying the coating, now looking after your new coating properly will directly affect how long that coating lasts! It can involve some upkeep and work, but the finished result leaves the vehicle looking and ceramic coating working as long as possible; often doubling the life of the ceramic coating compared to those who put little time and energy into it.
- Proper Washing
- Frequency: Every 1–2 weeks (don’t let dirt and contaminants sit too long).
- Method: Two-bucket wash method, pH-neutral shampoo, and soft microfibre mitts.
- Avoid: Automatic car washes with brushes — they create swirl marks.
- Drying
- Always dry with a clean, plush microfiber towel or blower to avoid water spots.
- Decontamination
- Iron remover: Every 3–6 months to remove embedded brake dust and fallout.
- Clay bar (light): Only if necessary, and with plenty of lubrication — aggressive claying can damage the coating. This is not a common step and should be used as a last resort. It is often on the same level as polishing with abrasives.
- Topper/Booster Sprays
- Use a SiO₂-infused spray sealant or ceramic topper every 2–3 months (or more often if exposed to harsh conditions). This helps rejuvenate hydrophobic properties and adds a sacrificial layer. A ceramic sealant will last longer, usually, than a ceramic detailer. A very good, top rated ceramic coating sealant often used is CARPRO Reload 2.0 with a longevity of 5-6 months if properly applied.
- Spot Maintenance
- Remove bird droppings, bug splatter, tree sap, or hard water spots immediately to prevent etching.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Stay away from strong degreasers or high-pH soaps unless performing a decon wash, as they strip protection.
Annual or Semi-Annual Maintenance
- Professional “maintenance wash” or coating inspection from your installer/detailer. They may apply a topper or check for coating degradation. See Ceramic Maintenance Cleanse under Standard Detailing Packages offered by Black Diamond Detailing.
Things That Shorten Coating Life
- Neglecting washes (dirt embeds and clogs hydrophobic properties).
- Using abrasive tools or cheap microfiber towels.
- Parking under trees or in industrial areas without frequent washes.
- Frequent use of automatic tunnel washes.
In short: wash gently but consistently, use a ceramic-safe topper, and deal with contaminants quickly. Do that, and your coating should perform for years.