Owning a car, especially a Tesla, comes with the responsibility of maintaining its appearance. One popular option for protecting and enhancing the look of a vehicle is ceramic coating. In this article, we will delve into the process of ceramic coating and its benefits, as demonstrated in the experience of a Tesla Model 3 owner. Join us as we explore the intricacies of ceramic coating and how it can make your car shine like new.

What is Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coating is a highly chemical-resistant and durable protective layer that is applied to a car's exterior surfaces. Unlike traditional wax, which wears off over time and requires frequent reapplication, ceramic coating forms a permanent bond with the paint, providing long-lasting protection. This coating is much thicker and more robust than wax, making it an ideal choice for busy car owners who want their vehicles to look great without the need for frequent maintenance.

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

Enhanced Appearance: Ceramic coating enhances the shine and gloss of a car's paint, making it look brand new.

Protection Against Oxidisation:
The coating prevents oxidisation, ensuring that the paint retains its original color for a longer period.

Reduced Swirl Mark Production:
Ceramic coating helps minimise the appearance of swirl marks, keeping the paint finish smooth and flawless.

Water Spot Resistance:
The coating reduces the likelihood of water spots forming on the car's surface.

Ease of Cleaning:
Ceramic coating makes cleaning easier, as dirt and grime have a harder time adhering to the protected surface.

Time and Cost Savings:
By eliminating the need for frequent waxing, ceramic coating saves time and money in long-term maintenance.

The Application Process

To illustrate the ceramic coating process, we follow the experience of a Tesla Model 3 owner who visited a professional ceramic coating service provider. The importance of washing the car before the coating application is emphasised to identify any imperfections that can be addressed beforehand. The coating professional inspects the car for scratches, water spots, and superficial marring that can be corrected during the process.

After the necessary preparations, the ceramic coating is applied to the car's exterior surfaces, including the, hood, boot lid, and doors. The coating forms a permanent bond with the paint, providing long-lasting protection. The drying process typically takes at least six hours, during which the car should be kept indoors to avoid any condensation.

Maintenance Tips

Once the ceramic coating is applied, it is crucial to follow proper maintenance techniques to ensure the longevity of the coating and the car's appearance. The following tips are recommended:

Rinse and Dry:
Regularly rinse the car and dry it thoroughly after washing to avoid water spots.

Foam Decontamination Wash:
Use a concentrated foam decontamination wash to clean the car gently, using a soft microfibre wash mitt.

Topical Drying Aid:
Optionally, a drying aid product can be applied after drying the car to enhance gloss and provide a temporary protective layer.

Wheel Cleaning:
Use a specialised wheel cleaner to remove brake dust and rust spots from the wheels.

Degreaser for Tough Stains:
A highly concentrated degreaser can be used to tackle stubborn stains on various surfaces.

Conclusion

Ceramic coating offers numerous advantages for car owners, especially those who value the appearance of their vehicles but lack the time for frequent maintenance. The process involves applying a durable and long-lasting protective layer that enhances the car's shine, protects against oxidisation, reduces swirl marks, and eases cleaning. By following recommended maintenance practices, car owners can enjoy the benefits of ceramic coating for an extended period.

Disclosure: The author would like to disclose that they received a free ceramic coating application for their Tesla Model 3 mentioned in this article from Solartint Brookvale