Ceramic Coating ?

[BroadHopper]

So $400 for a wax job is ridiculous! Even at 1/2 price. Buyers beware of dealers!

As noted on this thread, I have 2 vehicles ceramic waxed. MB in 2013 and allroad last year. Both like new. MB had a 10-year job. It's due last year but I see no need.

The MB for years was washed with PH neutral detergent and dried with a microfiber towel aided by a detail spray. After the Audi treatment, I was told to get a cheap electric pressure washer, 1500 psi is fine, and wash the car, with no detergent. Get a leaf blower to dry the car. Works fantastic! Even after a dirty winter!

Another detailer advises a graphene-based detailing spray after drying. I did that a couple of weeks ago. Beading was much better since the ceramic coating was not graphene-based. Graphene is more hydrophobic!

So yes, ceramic coating is expensive but worth it. You can DIY only if you know what you are doing.

[lakershaker]

So what about in winter with salt? I go to the carwash regularly to get the underneath clean and salt free. If I get ceramic, will going to the carwash hurt it, or you're saying its just unnecessary?

[LikeLakes]

Originally Posted by lakershaker

So what about in winter with salt? I go to the carwash regularly to get the underneath clean and salt free. If I get ceramic, will going to the carwash hurt it, or you're saying its just unnecessary?

I struggle with the same thing. Most of the time I wash my own cars, use a spray detailer. But in the winter I find myself going through the car wash to get the salt off at times.

[BroadHopper]

Originally Posted by lakershaker

So what about in winter with salt? I go to the carwash regularly to get the underneath clean and salt-free. If I get ceramic, will going to the carwash hurt it, or you're saying its just unnecessary?

Touchless car washes with under-chassis wash are OK in moderation. It's the solution that they use. It won't wash off the ceramic but it may slightly. Just use the minimum wash. You don't need the wax or spotless rinse. After the blow-dry, you will be surprised by how spotless it is. A small microfiber cloth is all you need to finish off. If you see grease, tar, or bird droppings, just wipe with the microfiber, and gone!