Ready for the Shine: How to Prep Your Car for a Ceramic Coating Appointment
You’ve decided to give your car the ultimate protection and gloss with a ceramic coating—great choice. Ceramic coating offers long-term defense against UV rays, contaminants, and light scratches, while giving your vehicle a sleek, glass-like shine. But to get the most out of this premium service, a little preparation goes a long way.
While your detailer will handle the application and professional prep work, there are a few simple steps you can take before your appointment to ensure the coating process goes smoothly and delivers the best possible results.
1. Remove Personal Items
Before bringing your car in, take a few minutes to remove all personal belongings from the:
Glove box and center console
Door pockets and seat-back storage
Trunk and cargo areas
Under the seats
Not only does this help the detailer access all surfaces for interior cleaning (if included), but it also prevents any items from getting in the way during the wash and coating process.
2. Wash Your Car (If Requested)
Some detailing shops offer a full wash and decontamination as part of their ceramic coating service—others may require the car to be reasonably clean upon arrival.
If washing your vehicle beforehand:
Avoid automatic car washes, especially touch-based ones
Use the two-bucket method to reduce swirl marks
Skip the wax or sealant—coating needs a clean, bare surface to bond properly
If you're unsure, ask your detailer what level of cleanliness they prefer when you drop the car off.
3. Note Any Paint Issues
Ceramic coating doesn’t correct existing paint defects—it locks them in. That’s why many shops include or recommend paint correction (machine polishing) before applying the coating.
Before your appointment:
Take note of any swirl marks, scratches, water spots, or fading
Share your concerns with your detailer in advance
Ask whether paint correction is included or recommended in your package
Being upfront ensures your expectations align with the end result.
4. Know What’s Being Coated
Ceramic coating can be applied to more than just paint. Many detailers offer optional protection for:
Wheels and brake calipers
Glass surfaces
Trim and plastics
Interior surfaces (leather, vinyl, and fabric)
Before your appointment, decide which areas you'd like protected so your detailer can plan accordingly—and provide accurate pricing and timelines.
5. Plan for Downtime
Ceramic coating isn’t a quick in-and-out service. Application typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the size of your vehicle and whether paint correction is included.
After coating, your vehicle also needs 12–24 hours in a dry environment to allow the coating to cure properly before being exposed to the elements. Some detailers offer indoor curing or recommend keeping the car sheltered if you're picking it up the same day.
Pro tip: Avoid washing your car for at least 7 days after application to allow the coating to fully bond.
6. Ask Questions and Follow Aftercare Instructions
Your detailer will likely provide specific aftercare instructions. Make sure you:
Know when it’s safe to wash the vehicle again
Understand how to maintain the coating with pH-neutral soaps and gentle wash methods
Get recommendations for maintenance toppers or inspection intervals
Good aftercare helps your ceramic coating last 2 to 5 years, depending on the product used.
Conclusion
Ceramic coating is one of the best investments you can make in your vehicle’s appearance and protection—but proper preparation ensures you get the most value from it. By arriving with a clean, cleared-out car and clear expectations, you make the detailer's job easier and ensure the results are flawless.
Ready for a deep, reflective shine that lasts? Prep your car right—and let the coating do the rest.