Ceramic coatings are the most popular form of paint protection that provide a high level of durability, hydrophobicity, and shine. Ceramic coatings are often used to protect cars from the elements, including UV rays, road debris, and harsh weather conditions. If you have recently ceramic coated your car, it is essential to know how to maintain it properly to preserve its protective properties and keep it looking new for years to come.
In this article, we will discuss how to look after a car that has been ceramic coated, including the steps needed to wash and care for the car, and the things you should not do.
Two-bucket Wash Method
When it comes to maintenance washing your ceramic-coated car, it is essential to use the right techniques to avoid damaging the coating. One of the most common techniques is the two-bucket wash method. This method involves using one bucket containing your choice of shampoo with water and another bucket of clean water to rinse your cleaning mitt after every pass over the car.
The two-bucket method helps prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on your mitt, which can lead to scratching of the surface of your paint. Simply put, you use the soapy water bucket to clean your mitt, and the clean water bucket to rinse the mitt off after every pass. This ensures that you are only applying soapy water to your car, and not using the same dirty mitt repeatedly.
pH-Neutral Shampoo
Another essential component of washing a ceramic-coated car is using a pH-neutral shampoo. pH-neutral shampoos are specially designed to be gentle on paint and coatings, not stripping away any protective layers. This is particularly important for ceramic coatings, as using harsh or acidic cleaning products can damage the coating and reduce its effectiveness.
Choosing The Right Products
Using high-quality, carefully chosen products is also essential when caring for a ceramic-coated car. This includes using high-quality microfiber towels with a high GSM, which are designed to be gentle on paint and will not scratch the surface. Using a product such as GYEON Ceramic Detailer, Cure or Q2M WetCoat will also boost the ceramic properties of the coating, keeping it stronger for longer.
Step-by-step Guide For Washing Your Ceramic-Coated Car
Now that you know the essential techniques and products required for washing a ceramic-coated car, here is a step-by-step guide to follow:
Step 1:
Start by rinsing the car with water, best with a pressure washer, to remove any loose dirt and debris.
Step 2:
Apply an Iron Wheel Cleaner to the wheels of the car to begin to lift any contaminants and brake dust.
Step 3:
Using a pH neutral snow foam, such as GYEON Foam, as well as a lance attachment for either your hose or pressure washer – apply a layer of foam across the entire car, letting it dwell for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4:
Clean the wheels thoroughly using a wheel dedicated mitt or brush.
Step 5:
Rinse the entire car and all wheels. This is a great starting point for a more in-depth wash.
Step 6:
Fill one bucket with your pH-neutral shampoo and water, and another bucket with clean water. Dip your mitt into the soapy water bucket and wash the car, starting at the top and working your way down. Rinse your mitt in the clean water bucket after every pass.
Step 7:
After washing the car, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue.
Step 8:
Using a product such as GYEON Ceramic Detailer, Cure or Q2M WetCoat, apply a coating as directed on the product to the entire car.
Step 9:
Use a high-quality microfiber towel or a Car Dryer such as a BLO, dry the car. If using a Drying Towel, ensure too sure to wipe gently to avoid scratching the surface.
Caring For Your Ceramic-Coated Car
In addition to regular washing, there are a few things you can do to care for your ceramic-coated car:
Avoid parking under trees or in areas where birds are likely to perch, as bird droppings can damage the coating and stain the surface of the car.
Apply a quick detailer spray or ceramic coating booster to the car's surface to help maintain its shine and protective properties.
Things To Avoid
To avoid damaging your ceramic-coated car, there are a few things you should avoid doing:
Do not use abrasive or acidic cleaning products, as these can damage the coating and strip away its protective properties.
Avoid using automatic car washes, as the brushes and chemicals used in these washes can scratch the surface of the car and damage the coating.
