Ceramic coating has become an increasingly popular way to protect and enhance the appearance of your vehicle.

This high-tech liquid polymer bonds to your car’s exterior to form a glossy, durable layer that repels water, resists scratches, and makes washing your car easier.
With ceramic coating gaining mainstream popularity, several myths and misconceptions have emerged. Let’s debunk 5 common myths about ceramic coating so you know the facts before considering it for your own vehicle.

Myth 1: Ceramic Coating Completely Protects Against Scratches

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about ceramic coatings. Some detailing shops even advertise them as making your car “scratch proof.” The reality is no coating can completely prevent scratches. What ceramic coating does provide is added scratch resistance.
The coating forms a hard, smooth barrier on top of your paint. This makes it more difficult for objects to scratch through to the clear coat and paint underneath. However, enough pressure or force can still cause scratching and swirling in the coating itself.
Ceramic coatings provide exceptional scratch resistance compared to wax or sealant. But no coating can turn your car into a scratch-proof force field. Proper maintenance and care is still required to keep your paint pristine.

Myth 2: Ceramic Coating is a One-and-Done Application

This myth stems from the fact that ceramic coatings are extremely durable compared to traditional car waxes. High-quality ceramic coatings can last 3-5 years or longer. However, they do require some upkeep and maintenance over time.
While the coating won’t wash off or oxidize like a wax or sealant, environmental exposure will degrade and thin the coating over the years. To keep the coating at maximum strength, periodic touch-ups and reapplication is required.
How often depends on the product used and conditions the vehicle is subjected to. For most consumer-grade ceramic coatings, reapplication every 2-3 years is recommended to maintain optimal protection and hydrophobics.

Myth 3: Ceramic Coatings Make Your Car Hydrophobic

Hydrophobic literally means “water-fearing.” When a car’s surface is hydrophobic, water beads up and rolls off easily without wetting the surface. This self-cleaning effect makes washing faster and helps prevent water spotting.
So do ceramic coatings automatically make your car hydrophobic? Not necessarily. Some premium ceramic coatings are formulated with hydrophobic polymers like silica SiO2. This enhances the coating’s water beading properties.
However, entry-level ceramic coatings use more basic polymers that don’t impart significant hydrophobic qualities. The coating needs to be specifically engineered for water beading for maximum hydrophobics. An added graphene spray coating can boost hydrophobic properties.

Myth 4: Ceramic Coatings Provide UV Protection for Your Paint

Here’s a common misconception not grounded in science. Some people believe the ceramic coating’s durable, glossy shell protects the paint underneath from UV radiation damage. This is simply not true.
Ceramic coatings contain no UV blockers or absorbers. They do not provide any significant UV protection for automotive paint. The UV rays pass right through the clear ceramic layer and can still cause oxidation and fading of the pigments in the base coat.
Waxes and sealants with added UV inhibitors offer more protection against the sun’s damaging rays. So don’t depend on a ceramic coating as a UV blocker. You’ll still need to use dedicated paint protection film or UV-resistant products to prevent sun damage.

Myth 5: Ceramic Coatings Only Work on High-End Cars

One persistent myth is that ceramic coatings are only effective or worthwhile on expensive luxury cars. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Ceramic coatings provide paint protection and easier cleaning for all types of vehicles, from family sedans to luxury sports cars.
The principles of how ceramic coatings work do not depend on the car’s make or model. Bonded to the clear coat, the coating provides scratch resistance, water beading, and gloss enhancement. The only limitation is heavily oxidized or damaged paint may need correction first.
Ceramic coatings are an investment that pays dividends in maintaining any vehicle. Don’t write it off for an average car – the protection benefits apply equally regardless of the car’s price tag. With proper prep, almost any vehicle can benefit from the durable protection of ceramic coating.

Conclusion
Ceramic coatings are a true innovation in automotive paint protection and gloss enhancement. But as a relatively new product category in the detailing world, misconceptions abound about their capabilities and limitations.
Hopefully this myth busting guide provides clarity on what ceramic coatings can and can’t do for your car’s exterior. While extremely durable and scratch resistant, they cannot fully prevent scratches or UV damage, nor are they a permanent one-time application. But their core benefits hold true regardless of car price or prestige.
If you have any lingering questions about ceramic coatings, consult with us. Suco has a team of experienced pros who can advise you on the best coating options for your particular vehicle and intended results. Don’t let the myths deter you – speak to a coating expert to learn if ceramic protection is right for keeping your car looking its best.