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Unmasking The Truth: 5 Ways to Confirm Your Vehicle's Ceramic Coating

Updated: Dec 30, 2023

Introduction

With the rise of advanced car care technologies, ceramic coatings have gained popularity among car owners worldwide.


A ceramic coat, a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle, offers unmatched protection and shine. But how can you be sure that your vehicle is truly protected by this high-tech layer?


Today, we're going to unmask the truth about confirming the presence of ceramic coating on your vehicle.


We will guide you through five practical methods that you can use to be certain that your car sports the promised protective shield.

Table Of Contents

What is a Ceramic Coating?


The Importance of Confirming Ceramic Coating


Five Ways To Confirm Yout Vehicle's Ceramic Coating


Precautions When Testing for Ceramic Coating



1971 Cuda black exterior paint correction and ceramic coating in lemont illinois
After restoration and application of a 9H coating, our client enjoyed his '71 Cuda all summer.

What is Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that bonds with your vehicle's paint on a molecular level, providing superior protection against UV rays, chemical stains, and scratches.


This transparent, second-skin layer also offers an impressive gloss to your vehicle that no wax or sealant can rival.


Car owners resort to ceramic coatings not just for the shine, but for their long-lasting and resilient nature. This protective shield reduces the frequency of washes and maintains the showroom finish of the vehicle for a more extended period.


When it comes to ceramic coating technology, there are various tiers that car owners may not be fully aware of.


While some may be familiar with ceramic sprays, there are also other tiers that offer even more advanced protection and durability for your vehicle. For example, there are mid-level ceramic coatings that provide a stronger barrier against environmental contaminants and UV rays.


On the other hand, high-end industrial ceramic coatings offer the ultimate level of protection, with some even claiming to last up to a decade. With all these options available, it's important for car owners to educate themselves on the different tiers of ceramic coating technology to make an informed decision on what's best for their vehicle.


Ask Ty: Would you recommend car owners to invest in an industrial ceramic coating? Industrial coatings are top of the line in the industry. From personal experience, I highly recommend them because they improve the longevity of your paint and give it a glass-like look and feel.


The Importance of Confirming Ceramic Coating

Confirming the presence of ceramic coating on your vehicle is not only crucial but also a necessary step to ensure that your vehicle is protected from environmental factors such as UV rays, bird droppings, and road salt.


Applying ceramic coating to your vehicle is a great way to protect it from the harsh elements of the environment, but it is equally important to confirm the presence of the coating to ensure that it has been applied correctly and that it will provide the desired level of protection.


Unfortunately, the market is riddled with unscrupulous dealers who may falsely claim that your vehicle is coated when it's not. This highlights the need for car owners to do their due diligence when choosing a dealer to work with.


It is essential to work with a reputable dealer who has a track record of delivering quality services to their clients.


In addition, it is important to note that ceramic coating is not a one-time solution to protecting your vehicle. It requires periodic maintenance to ensure that it continues to provide the desired level of protection.


Therefore, it is crucial to work with a dealer who not only applies the coating but also offers maintenance services to ensure that your vehicle remains protected for an extended period.


Not having a promised ceramic coating can cause premature paint fading and reduced aesthetic appeal. Let's dive into how you can confirm the presence of this protective shield on your vehicle.


Five Ways to Confirm Your Vehicle's Ceramic Coating


Method 1: Water Beading Test

One of the telltale signs of ceramic coating is how water behaves on the surface.


Properly coated vehicles exhibit excellent hydrophobic properties. When water is poured, it should bead up and roll off the surface quickly.


Method 2: The Gloss and Smoothness Test

Ceramic coating adds an impressive gloss to your vehicle's paint. If your car's surface reflects like a mirror and feels notably smooth to the touch, these are good indicators of a ceramic coating.


Method 3: The Microfiber Towel Test

Rub a clean microfiber towel gently across the surface. If the vehicle is ceramic coated, the towel will glide easily with minimal friction. Apply little to no pressure.


Method 4: Professional Inspection

If you're unsure, take your vehicle to a professional. They have the expertise and tools to verify whether your car has a ceramic coating.


Method 5: The Time Test

Quality ceramic coatings last for years. If your vehicle maintains its glossy and clean look for an extended period, it likely has a ceramic coating.


Precautions When Testing for Ceramic Coating

While these tests are simple, ensure you perform them with care. Avoid performing the water beading test on a dirty car, as it can lead to scratches.


When carrying out the microfiber edgeless plush towel test, use light pressure to prevent any potential damage.


Conclusion

Confirming the presence of ceramic coating is an essential step in vehicle maintenance. It not only assures that your vehicle is well-protected but also helps maintain its value and aesthetic appeal.


Whether it's the water beading test, gloss and smoothness test, or even a professional inspection, these tests will help you uncover the truth about your vehicle's ceramic coating.


Learn more about Ceramic Coating Technology in our Know The Different Types of Ceramic Coating Technology post.


Did these methods help you confirm the presence of ceramic coating on your vehicle?

Or perhaps you have another method to share?

We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments.



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