How to Maintain a Ceramic Coating
Now that you have invested in Ceramic Pro to protect your vehicle, regular maintenance is still essential to ensure long-term performance.
One of the key benefits of Ceramic Pro coatings is that dirt and debris do not bond tightly to the surface due to the hydrophobic properties and slickness of the coating. As a result, your car will remain cleaner for longer and be much easier to maintain.
By following the proper washing techniques outlined below, you will help extend the lifespan of your ceramic coating while keeping your vehicle looking its best.
Essential Washing Equipment
Basic Equipment
✔ Microfibre Wash Mitt (avoid foam sponges)
✔ Microfibre Drying Towel (avoid synthetic or leather chamois)
✔ pH-Balanced Car Shampoo
✔ Two Large Buckets (for the two-bucket wash method)
✔ Hose
Advanced Equipment (For the Best Results)
✔ Pressure Washer
✔ Snow Foam Cannon (compatible with pressure washer lance)
✔ Blow Dryer (for water-spot-free drying)
✔ Wheel Woolies & Brushes (dedicated bucket for wheels only)
✔ Grit Guards (prevents dirt from contaminating wash mitt)
Basic Safe Wash Method
To minimise the risk of scratching, always wash your vehicle in a shaded area when possible.
1️⃣ Clean the Wheels First – Using dedicated wheel wash media, clean the wheels and tyres. If using the same wash bucket for the car, empty and refill it before moving to the paintwork.
2️⃣ Prepare Wash Buckets – Fill Bucket 1 with pH-balanced shampoo and water (as per instructions) and Bucket 2 with clean water for rinsing the wash mitt.
3️⃣ Rinse the Vehicle – Use a hose to rinse off loose dirt and contaminants before making any contact with the surface.
4️⃣ Wash Top to Bottom – Dunk the microfibre wash mitt into Bucket 1, wash a section of the car using light back-and-forth motions, then rinse the mitt in Bucket 2 before reloading with soap.
5️⃣ Repeat Until the Car is Clean – Continue working in sections, always rinsing the mitt in Bucket 2 before reloading from Bucket 1.
6️⃣ Final Rinse – Thoroughly rinse the vehicle with a hose to remove all shampoo.
7️⃣ Dry the Car – Use a microfibre drying towel to gently dry the surface.
Advanced Wash Method (For the Best Results)
When possible, wash your car in a shaded area to prevent water spots.
1️⃣ Pre-Wash with Snow Foam – Using a pressure washer and foam cannon, apply a layer of snow foam to loosen dirt and contaminants before touching the paint.
2️⃣ Insert Grit Guards & Follow the Basic Wash Method – Use grit guards in your buckets and follow Steps 1-6 of the Basic Wash Method, substituting a pressure washer for the hose.
3️⃣ Dry with an Air Blower – For the best results, use an air blower to remove excess water, followed by a microfibre drying towel for a streak-free finish.
✅ Congratulations! Your car is now clean, safe, and looking like new!
What to Avoid When Washing a Ceramic Coated Car
1️⃣ Hosing the Car & Letting It Air Dry
🚫 Simply hosing the vehicle and allowing it to air dry is not a proper wash method. Tap water contains minerals that can stain the coating and paintwork when left to dry, particularly in direct sunlight.
2️⃣ Automatic Car Washes
🚫 Tunnel car washes use abrasive brushes that can cause marring and fine scratches over time. The harsh chemicals used in these washes may also degrade the ceramic coating.
3️⃣ Leaving Bird Droppings on the Paint
🚫 While Ceramic Pro coatings protect against uric acid damage, bird droppings should still be removed as soon as possible. If dried, soak a microfibre towel in warm water, lay it over the dropping, let it soften, and gently lift it away. Avoid rubbing, as droppings may contain abrasive seeds that can scratch the paint.
What If You Don’t Have Time to Maintain Your Car?
If you’re unable to wash your car regularly, consider these alternatives:
✅ Touchless Car Wash
🔹 A touchless wash uses pressurised water and specialised cleaning chemicals to remove dirt. While not as effective as a hand wash, it is safer than an automatic car wash.
🔹 We recommend carrying a microfibre drying towel to properly dry the vehicle after exiting the machine, as the built-in blowers are often insufficient.
✅ Professional Hand Wash Services
🔹 A hand wash service is a much better alternative than an automatic car wash.
🔹 Be sure to research their process to ensure they use safe washing techniques suitable for ceramic coatings.
✅ Mobile Detailing Service
🔹 For the safest and most thorough wash, hire a professional detailer who specialises in ceramic coating maintenance washes.
🔹 Expect to pay a premium for this level of care, but it guarantees the best results and long-term protection for your investment.
At RC Car Care, we provide professional ceramic coating installation and expert advice on maintaining your vehicle.
Want to keep your car looking flawless for years to come? Contact us today for the best Ceramic Pro maintenance solutions!
