Car's Old Ceramic Coating: When to Protect and When to Replace

As a vehicle owner, you must know that the ceramic coating for your car is in no way indestructible armor. In fact, ceramic coating does require some maintenance, and in time, it will eventually need to be replaced. 

You may have a few questions about your car’s ceramic coating. For instance, does a 9H hardness rated product means you’re getting a coating that can prevent light scratches? Yes, it does. Will it ever need replacement? Yes, your ceramic coating will need to be eventually replaced.  However, the lifespan of your ceramic coating can be extended with proper maintenance washes once it is applied. 

In this post, 5 Star Auto Detailing will share with you the signs that you need to look out for that may indicate that it is time for a new ceramic coating:

Signs Your Old Ceramic Coating Is Reaching the End of Its Lifespan

It’s Reaching The End of Its Lifespan

First of all, you should remember that a ceramic coating’s lifespan varies. Basic ceramic coating lasts up to a year, standard ceramic coatings have a lifespan of 3 years, while elite ceramic coating can last up to five years. But if you use your car daily, even if it’s cleaned on a regular basis, it is unlikely to reach five years before the vehicle requires a ceramic coating replacement. 

Loss of Shine

If you notice that your vehicle is losing its glassy finish, that’s a telltale sign that it may be time for a replacement. You may even see that the car coating doesn’t have a hydrophobic effect anymore, and water doesn’t simply bead up and roll away.

Visible Peeling


It’s a rare occurrence, but if you do notice some peeling, then that is indeed a sign that the surface of the ceramic coating has already been damaged and that it may be too late for a topper or booster.  A topper or booster is applied to extend the lifespan of a ceramic coating. Of course, this can only be used if the ceramic coating is still in pretty good condition. Before its application, it’s better to take the vehicle to a trusted auto detailing studio to ensure that there are no contaminants whatsoever and to ensure that the right solution will be applied on the coated surface. 

When Is It Time to Replace Your Ceramic Coating?

It is inevitable that after a few years, even the best toppers and boosters are not going to improve the look of your ceramic coating. The only option you have left is to remove the ceramic coating your car has right now and replace it with a new coat of nanotechnology. 

Applying a fresh ceramic coating to the exterior of your vehicle in a timely manner can ensure that you maintain the proper protection for your vehicle. Don’t lose out on your initial investment by waiting for your ceramic coating to completely deteriorate. . 

To make sure this doesn’t happen and that there will be no gaps when your coat is unprotected, you should consider removing your current coating and replacing it with a new one once you are close to reaching the lifespan of your ceramic coating or before this time if you notice and visible peeling. 

Conclusion

Ceramic coating is indeed necessary to keep your car looking smooth and fresh. That said, the coating itself needs protection and upkeep, too. You need to take your car to a reliable auto detailing shop regularly to ensure that it’s still in its best shape. You should also apply high-quality toppers and boosters to extend the life of your ceramic coating. However, know that this routine maintenance is not meant to be a permanent solution and that inevitably your ceramic coating will  need a replacement every few years. By knowing the signs mentioned in this post, you’ll be able to determine when your car needs a coating removal and reapplication. 

5 Star Auto Detailing in Rochester, MN offers premier services that your car deserves. Get your ceramic coating from our trained pros today!