Which ceramic coating should I buy?
Quick answer: There isn't one "best" ceramic coating -- choose an accredited, professional-grade system applied by a reputable installer. Preparation matters more than the bottle on the shelf; pick a coating that suits how you use and wash the car (durability, gloss, warranty and budget), and treat bold lifetime claims and cheap DIY kits with caution.
When we compare like with like, we find only small differences in the end result between different brands, and none of them gives a significant advantage over another. Most of the variation is in application, which the end user never sees, and in the small print of the warranty. Because we offer our own warranty on ceramic coatings, that doesn't affect the customer either.
Our shopping list for ceramic coating suppliers includes the following:
- Reliability of supply -- it's no good to us if we have to wait another month for a slow boat from China.
- Reasonable purchasing policy -- some manufacturers want you to sell their product exclusively, and commit to buying huge volumes each year.
- Transparency and support -- we want a point of contact who is available and knows what they are talking about.
- Clear and fair warranty -- we don't like conditions such as annual maintenance top-ups.
- Ease of application -- products that are especially difficult to apply increase the risk of mishaps for no tangible benefit.
So we suggest you choose the ceramic coating based on its lifespan, because that is usually what matters most to you. If you are only keeping the car a few years, pick a 3-year coating. If you have a vintage car you intend to keep forever, choose a 10-year coating that you can top up. Ask your accredited detailer and they will advise on the product that suits you best.