Debunking Common Myths About Ceramic Coatings

Unfortunately, there's a tremendous amount of misinformation and confusion surrounding ceramic coatings. A lot of this comes from manufacturers who are eager to sell their products, or from detailers who may be new to the industry and don’t fully understand what ceramic coatings actually do.

If you come across claims about ceramic coatings that mention their hardness, scratch resistance, or durability lasting 7, 8, or even 10 years, it's time to take a step back and approach those claims with caution. These assertions are typically as far from the truth as possible.

Here’s the reality: You won’t get complete scratch resistance from a ceramic coating. While it does provide some protection, it doesn’t turn your car into an indestructible surface. You can still run your clean hands over a coated surface, and you’ll leave light marring behind. Over time, these small marks will build up, leading to swirls in the paint. That’s why it's important to know that a ceramic coating doesn’t make your car invincible.

Another common myth is that ceramic coatings make a car immune to automatic car washes. The truth is, if you take a car with a ceramic coating through an automatic car wash, you’re still going to end up with swirl marks and scratches. The coating will help keep the car cleaner for a while, but it won’t protect it from the physical damage caused by the brushes and chemicals in an automatic wash.

But the biggest myth by far is the exaggerated durability claims. No ceramic coating on the market can realistically last 7, 8, or 10 years. These numbers often come from theoretical lab settings, not from real-world use. When I talk about the effective lifespan of a ceramic coating at The Buffing Moose Detailing, I’m considering what actually happens in the real world, where environmental factors, maintenance, and wear come into play.

Typically, the protective benefits of a ceramic coating start to diminish after about 2 to 4 years. Even if the coating is still on your car’s surface after that time, it’s no longer offering the same level of protection or hydrophobic qualities. The self-cleaning effect that initially made it so appealing will also fade, leaving your car less resistant to dirt and water.

So, when you're looking at ceramic coatings, don’t be swayed by those inflated promises of long-lasting durability. It’s important to be realistic about what the coating can and can’t do. Understand that a coating is a valuable protective layer, but it’s not a miracle solution. With proper care, it will last a few years, but beyond that, you’re looking at a diminishing return on the investment.