Complete Guide to Washing & Maintaining a Ceramic Coated Car
Washing a ceramic coated car is different from washing unprotected paint. Done right, you’ll extend the life of your coating, keep that slick hydrophobic finish, and avoid introducing scratches or swirl marks. Done wrong, you could shorten your coating’s lifespan or diminish its performance.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step process for washing a ceramic coated vehicle, the products to use, the mistakes to avoid, and pro tips for keeping your coating performing like new.
Why Proper Washing Matters for Ceramic Coatings
- Preserves Hydrophobic Properties: Proper washing ensures your coating keeps beading and sheeting water.
- Prevents Damage: Using safe techniques reduces the chance of scratches and swirl marks.
- Maximizes Longevity: Following the right maintenance process helps coatings last their full rated lifespan.
Step-by-Step Ceramic Coated Car Wash Process
1. Pre-Rinse
Use a pressure washer or strong hose stream to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This step minimizes the risk of rubbing grit into the coating during contact washing.
2. Pre-Soak with Foam
Apply The Super Soaper using a foam cannon or pump sprayer. Let the foam dwell for 5–7 minutes to loosen dirt without touching the paint.
3. Contact Wash
Use an Orange Wash Microfiber Towel with the two-towel or two-bucket method. Work top to bottom, rinsing or switching towels frequently.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Ensure all soap is removed to avoid streaks or residue buildup.
5. Dry Safely
Use a Massive Drying Towel or forced air dryer to prevent water spots. If air drying, keep the car in the shade and move quickly.
6. Top-Up Protection
After drying, apply Tough As Shell to maintain the coating’s slickness and hydrophobicity.
Maintenance Frequency
- Weekly: Rinse and wash.
- Monthly: Inspect for contaminants and top up with a spray coating.
- Quarterly: Perform a decon wash if needed.
Ceramic Coating Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
- Using harsh detergents or degreasers on the paint.
- Washing in direct sunlight, causing water spots.
- Skipping pre-rinse/pre-soak and dragging dirt across the surface.
- Using the same towels for paint and wheels.
Maintain Your Ceramic Coating Like a Pro
Get the exact products I use in the video above: The Super Soaper for safe pre-soaking, Orange Wash Microfiber Towels for contact washing, and Tough As Shell for easy ceramic coating maintenance.
Related Posts in the Ceramic-Coated Car Wash Series
- How to Remove Road Tar & Bugs from a Ceramic Coated Car
- Ceramic Coating Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
- Wheel Cleaning for Ceramic Coated Cars – Best Practices
