What Are the Downsides of a Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coatings provide jaw-dropping gloss, make washing your car a breeze, and protect against UV rays and chemical stains. However, there is a lot of misinformation online treating them like an invincible armor. Here are the actual downsides and limitations of ceramic coatings.

1. It Does Not Prevent Rock Chips

This is the biggest misconception. A ceramic coating is measured in nanometers—it is incredibly thin. If a rock hits your bumper at 70 MPH, it will punch right through the coating and chip your paint. If you want rock chip protection, you need Paint Protection Film (PPF).

2. It Does Not Prevent Scratches

While a 9H ceramic coating is harder than your factory clear coat and resists fine micro-marring, it will not stop someone from keying your car, nor will it prevent scratches if you wipe dry dirt off the paint with a rough towel.

3. Water Spots Can Still Happen

Because ceramic coatings make water bead up into tight droplets, those droplets can act like magnifying glasses in the sun. If hard tap water dries on the coating, the minerals are left behind, creating water spots. You still need to dry your car properly after washing.

4. It Requires Specific Maintenance

You can no longer take your car through cheap, abrasive automatic car washes. You must hand wash it using pH-neutral soaps to preserve the coating's hydrophobic properties.

Still want the ultimate gloss?
As long as you understand what a coating does, it is an amazing investment. Call CDA Auto Styling at (951) 470-4606 to book your installation.

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