[IX3 KING]

I would like some advice on ceramic coating.

The pros and cons.

Is it worth it.

Where to get it done.

Any help on this would be great.

[avi66]

Originally Posted by IX3 KING

I would like some advice on ceramic coating.

The pros and cons.

Is it worth it.

Where to get it done.

Any help on this would be great.

Lots of things called ceramic coating, so be mindful that they are not all the same. Professional only products usually last longer, but require specific prep, are more difficult to apply, as often thicker, and may require heat curing. The paint correction/prep is key, and this is where most of the cost goes if done properly.

Pro’s -

Helps to maintain the appearance of newly corrected and prepared paint for a long period of time. How long depends on the prep, product and ongoing maintenance.

The hard finish reduces issues like paint surface marring such as swirls, minor marks etc, often caused during the cleaning process.

Makes cleaning the car easier.

May be more noticeable on darker paint colours.

Con’s -

Not a magic bullet.

Confusing minefield of products

Can be expensive

Isn’t fire and forget, and requires proper regular maintenance.

Can’t be polished as this will compromise the coating.

PPF will provide better impact protection, but is even more expensive.

Is it worth it ?

Largely depends how you care for the car, if you use regular machine washing, or don’t have the time to maintain it properly, it’s probably not for you.

Have a chat with Jim, he did my car.

https://www.youtube.com/@WhiteDetails

[puckhead85]

depends on you really. Are you leasing? How long do you plan on keeping the car?
I'm purchasing my car so I plan on having it for a while. NY roads are terrible from stones, sand/salt to whatever debris. so far me it is worth it. It does make it easier to wash. For me I plan on doing a full Xpel clear PPF (Brooklyn gray) and then my installer uses Xpel fusion for the ceramic coating. I also plan on coating my wheels and brake calipers. It does have a heavy cost and it has to be done correctly. It's one of those things you need to decide on when the vehicle is new. I'm having my dealer not prep the car and leave all the protective plastics on it and then go straight to my shop to have it done.
As far as maintenance goes it's recommended to have the car/PPF/coating polished and "boosted" every year but it does keep the car looking clean for many years to come.

[avi66]

Originally Posted by puckhead85

depends on you really. Are you leasing? How long do you plan on keeping the car?
I'm purchasing my car so I plan on having it for a while. NY roads are terrible from stones, sand/salt to whatever debris. so far me it is worth it. It does make it easier to wash. For me I plan on doing a full Xpel clear PPF (Brooklyn gray) and then my installer uses Xpel fusion for the ceramic coating. I also plan on coating my wheels and brake calipers. It does have a heavy cost and it has to be done correctly. It's one of those things you need to decide on when the vehicle is new. I'm having my dealer not prep the car and leave all the protective plastics on it and then go straight to my shop to have it done.
As far as maintenance goes it's recommended to have the car/PPF/coating polished and "boosted" every year but it does keep the car looking clean for many years to come.

I’ve often wondered about ceramic coating, which essentially sets very hard, on top of PPF, which is a very flexible material (far more than clear coat), that changes with heat, hence self healing type properties, and impact. I don’t think I’d do both.

It’s also not universally recommended to “polish” all ceramic coatings annually, unless you plan to reapply the coating, which kinda defies the point imo.

[docal]

In short,
1. researched the Pros for the best value and experienced guys who are committed to quality. (Used the local BMW club endorsed outfit)
2. Don't skimp, and do not have dealer prep your car service, brought X3 still in shipping wrap to Ceramic specialist
3. Never Machine wash.
4. Still beading and looking like new after 54 months in Chicago with our winters, but garage kept.
5. Takes 10-15 minutes to wash and dry.
6. Spending $1400 to preserve a 65k car is a no brainer.

[avi66]

Originally Posted by docal

5. Takes 10-15 minutes to wash and dry.

I wish.

Takes longer than that for me to apply and leave the snow foam pre wash.

Seriously, I’d be amazed if anyone could do a proper clean and dry in 10-15 minutes, unless the car is already clean. The wheels alone take longer than that.

[Mavus]

waste of $$ and time. just a money maker for companies. either ppf or use wax.

driving on regular roads with debris only ppf helps.

[docal]

In short,
1. researched the Pros for the best value and experienced guys who are committed to quality. (Used the local BMW club endorsed outfit)
2. Don't skimp, and do not have dealer prep your car service, brought X3 still in shipping wrap to Ceramic specialist
3. Never Machine wash.
4. Still beading and looking like new after 54 months in Chicago with our winters, but garage kept.
5. Takes 10-15 minutes to wash and dry.
6. Spending $1400 to preserve a 65k car is a no brainer.