How to Properly Wash Your Ceramic Coated Car: Step-by-Step Guide

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Home » How to Properly Wash Your Ceramic Coated Car: Step-by-Step Guide

Ceramic coatings have taken the automotive world by storm, providing long-lasting protection and an impressive, glossy finish to your vehicle. But what happens after your car has been ceramic-coated? How do you maintain that showroom shine and ensure the coating performs at its best?

At Fast Car, we know the thrill of keeping your pride and joy looking fresh. So we’re diving into the essential steps for giving your ceramic-coated car a decontamination wash to breathe life back into the protective coating. Whether you’re prepping for the next big show or just keeping it sharp for the daily drive, follow our detailed guide to ensure your ceramic coating stays as good as new.

After a few months of road grime, brake dust, and exposure to the elements, your ceramic-coated car may start to lose its hydrophobic beading, and contaminants could become embedded in the surface. A simple rinse won’t cut it. This is where a decontamination wash comes in, restoring the ceramic coating’s performance by removing all the built-up grime without damaging the protective layer.

Let’s walk you through the process, step by step.

Before diving into the wash, you’ll need some essential cleaning products. We’re fans of Gtechniq here at Fast Car, so naturally we turned to their range of wash and decontamination products. These are designed to be compatible with the Gtechniq ceramic coating we previously applied, so we can rest assured we won’t damage or strip the coating.

The first stage of your decontamination wash is to apply a snow foam pre-wash. Snow foam is designed to lift off large particles of dirt, allowing you to safely remove the debris without scratching your car’s surface.

Why Snow Foam Matters

The foam clings to the vehicle, breaking down road grime and dirt, and then slowly drags it down the paintwork. It’s a critical first step that minimizes the risk of scratches during the wash.

While the snow foam removes most of the dirt, there are still stubborn areas, such as the wheels, sills, and wheel arches, that need extra attention.

Even after the snow foam and APC steps, tiny iron particles from brake dust can still cling to your car’s surface. These contaminants need to be removed before proceeding with a contact wash.

Now that most of the dirt and contamination is removed, it’s time for a contact wash. This step requires special attention to avoid scratching the ceramic coating.

Microfiber mitts are much safer than traditional sponges because they trap dirt within their fibers, reducing the risk of dragging contaminants across the paint.

Once the car is clean, it’s crucial to dry it properly to avoid unsightly water spots. Plus, we need the car dry in order to apply the ceramic sealant at the next stage.

Now that your car is clean and dry, it’s time to give the ceramic coating a boost with a ceramic sealant. This step adds an extra layer of protection, enhancing the coating’s durability and water-beading capabilities.

Once the decontamination wash is complete, your ceramic coating will come back to life. You’ll notice the water beading beautifully, showcasing the hydrophobic properties of the coating.

That’s it! Your ceramic-coated car is now clean, protected, and ready for the road. By following these steps, you’ve safely removed contaminants without harming the ceramic layer, ensuring your car looks its best for months to come.

Remember, the key to maintaining a ceramic coating is regular decontamination washes like this, paired with the occasional top-up of ceramic sealant. Whether you’re prepping for the next big car show or just giving your car the care it deserves, this method ensures your ceramic coating will continue to protect and shine.

If you want to see the process in action, don’t forget to check out our full video tutorial at the top of this page!

Happy washing, and keep that shine going strong!

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