Should you consider ceramic coating for your car?

We know a lot of drivers take immense pride in their cars. They spend hours detailing, washing, and waxing to keep their vehicles looking brand new. However, normal day-to-day wear and tear can take a toll on your vehicle no matter how many times you wax it. That’s where the option of ceramic coating comes into play, and Toyota of Orlando is here to explain this unique product and the benefits it can offer your car. But what is ceramic coating for cars, exactly? Check out this information straight from our Toyota Certified Collision Center.

What is ceramic coating for cars?

What is ceramic coating for cars? Basically, it’s sort of like a prime version of car wax. Basically, it’s a liquid polymer that’s applied to your car like a coat of wax – our techs apply it by hand for even results. It then chemically bonds with the factory paint on your car and gives it an additional layer of protection. However, unlike wax, car ceramic coating can’t be removed by washing – it’s there to stay, which means you won’t have to reapply it every few months. It’s a permanent or semi-permanent bond, so it doesn’t break down easily and will stick around a lot longer than even a high-quality wax.

What types of ceramic coating are available to you?

There are basically two types of ceramic coating available for your Orlando Toyota – DIY and professional. You can go either route, but buyer beware – you get what you pay for. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Professional-grade ceramic coating is thick and almost super-glue-like. They require multiple steps to cure them properly and form that protective coat.
• Consumer-grade ceramic coating (DIY products) doesn’t require as much of a process to apply and is cheaper. These products are usually single-application products. They don’t cure as hard as professional-grade products, which can result in less of a shine and less durability.
• Consumer-grade ceramic coating typically comes in two forms: sprayable, and sprayable nano-polymer.
  • The nano-polymer spray is polymer based (instead of SI02 based) and offers enhanced protection and shine.
• When you DIY your ceramic coating, you run the risk of imperfections. It requires a lot of prep work to get the car ready for ceramic coating including washing, clay bar, and waxing. If you skip these steps or aren’t thorough enough with them, it can result in sealing in paint imperfections or dulling the shine of your car’s paint (like, forever).
• Professional ceramic coating places usually require the installer to be professionally trained and have access to the proper type of facility for the job, as well as have insurance and the right tools, like infrared curing lamps.

There are also different areas where ceramic coating can be applied to your Orlando Toyota. You can apply it to protect your car’s paint (the most common use), as well as the glass, wheels, and trim.

How long does it take to ceramic coat a car?

How long does it take to ceramic coat a car? That circles back around to whether you choose professional-grade products or try to DIY the job yourself.

• Professional-grade ceramic coating requires multiple steps and lots of curing. That means they can take 3-4 days to complete for the best outcome.
• Consumer-grade ceramic coating is a simpler process and thus, takes less time. Typically, you can get it done in 1-2 days.

How much is it to ceramic coat a car?

Next big question – how much is it to ceramic coat a car? Obviously, it’s going to be cheaper to DIY it as you’re not paying for labor, and you’re paying for a cheaper product.

• Professional-grade ceramic coating can range anywhere from $1,000 and up. This type of ceramic coating typically lasts from 5-10 years.
• Consumer-grade ceramic coating can range anywhere from $150 and up. This type of ceramic coating typically lasts from 1-3 years.

Costs will vary depending on which type you’re getting, where you’re applying it, where you live, and the type of car you drive. Long story short, your best bet is to call Toyota of Orlando for more information.

What’s the benefit of car ceramic coating?

There are two main benefits to putting a car ceramic coating on your car paint.

• First, it’s easier to clean. It’s hydrophobic and repels water, so water can bead up and slide off a lot more easily than if you just had your paint or even a coat of wax. This means mud and dirty water won’t be able to stick to your car as easy and even if they do, they’ll be a lot easier to rinse off. You won’t have to scrub as hard when detailing your car, nor will you have to apply another coat of ceramic coating every few months like you would with car wax.
• The other main benefit of using a car ceramic coating for vehicles is the protection it affords your Orlando Toyota. As mentioned, it repels moisture (so buh-bye, rust) and is more durable and longer-lasting than wax. It offers an additional layer of protection between the world and your car’s paint, which means it keeps things like UV rays and oxidization (and subsequent paint fading), chemical staining and etching (we’re looking at you, lovebugs), and even some small chips and scratches.

Another side benefit? Ceramic coating for vehicles keeps your car nice and glossy, so you’ll always have that fresh-off-the-lot shine going on.

However, don’t be fooled – using this product won’t prevent your car from getting scratches and paint chips altogether and it certainly doesn’t mean you can stop washing your car.

Schedule ceramic coating for cars at Toyota of Orlando today

Have questions or need to schedule an appointment to get ceramic coating for vehicles? Call us today – we’re open and waiting at (407) 298-6006! You can also stop by Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

 

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