Does a Ceramic Coating Require Maintenance? Yes – and Here’s Why

Ceramic coating is one of the most advanced and effective ways to protect automotive paintwork. It shields the surface from dirt, UV rays, and minor contaminants while enhancing gloss and depth. However, to maintain its full potential—especially the hydrophobic effect—it requires proper upkeep. Simply washing your car is not enough. You also need to use the right products and methods.

Washing a Ceramic-Coated Car

One of the main benefits of ceramic coatings is that they make cleaning the car significantly easier. Dirt doesn’t stick to the surface as easily, and water beads off quickly, reducing streaks and water spots. But to preserve these properties, you should follow a thoughtful washing routine.

1. Pre-wash – removing loose dirt and road grime:

Start with a snow foam pre-wash to loosen contaminants.

• For heavy dirt, use an alkaline foam like ADBL Yeti Pearl.
• For regular maintenance, ADBL Yeti (neutral) is sufficient.

2. Main wash – using the right shampoo, two buckets method:

To prevent mineral buildup and preserve hydrophobicity, use an acidic shampoo like ADBL Tangy. It effectively breaks down mineral deposits without damaging the coating.

3. Don’t forget the wheels and details:

• Use ADBL Tire and Wheel Cleaner for regular maintenance.
• For brake dust and iron fallout, apply ADBL Vampire Liquid.
• For grills, emblems, and door jambs, ADBL Typhoon (1:10 dilution) works well and is pH neutral, making it safe for all surfaces.

Coating Maintenance – When and Why to Do It

To prolong the durability and effectiveness of the ceramic coating, it’s recommended to perform a full decontamination service every 3 to 6 months.

1. Chemical decontamination steps:

• Tar and asphalt removal: Vasco Pre Wash or ADBL Tar Remover Thixotropic
• Iron deposit removal: ADBL Vampire Liquid

Final Touch – Protection and Finishing

Once the car is clean and decontaminated, you should restore hydrophobicity and gloss with an extra layer of protection:

• On a wet car: Apply ADBL Wet Coat – a quick ceramic spray that boosts water beading.
• On a dry car: Use ADBL Ceramic QD for gloss enhancement and surface slickness.

For ceramic foam like Wet Coat, application is effortless: apply with a foam lance and rinse thoroughly.

Drying and Tire Dressing – The Finishing Touch

After rinsing, drying is crucial to prevent water spots. Use a plush microfiber towel or a blower for optimal results.

To complete the detail, dress your tires with ADBL Tire Coat, dressing that restores black color, nourishes the rubber, and gives a premium finish.

Conclusion

Caring for a ceramic-coated vehicle isn’t complicated, but it does require proper techniques and the right products. By washing regularly, performing periodic decontamination, and applying top-up protection, you’ll preserve the stunning finish and water-repellent properties for years.

Explore the products mentioned in this guide at CarShine.ie

➡️ [ADBL Yeti Pearl]

➡️ [ADBL Tangy]

➡️ [ADBL Vampire Liquid]

➡️ [ADBL Ceramic QD]

➡️ [ADBL Tire Coat]