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What is ceramic coating and how can it help your car?

protect car paint
Are you sick of trying to keep your car clean and looking like new? It can be a challenge, we know. You face dirt, grime, road debris, sand from the beach, and water spots from the daily rain we seem to face here in Central Florida. It can be a serious challenge to keep your car's paint looking like new and requires a lot of elbow grease on your end. Plus, it's continuous upkeep that you have to stay on top of if you want to keep your car's resale value high. However, our Clermont auto service techs may have the solution - ceramic coating.

Ceramic coating basics

What is ceramic coating? To put it as simply as possible, it's sort of like a longer-lasting car wax. Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that's applied by hand to your car's exterior paint; it's put on similarly to a coat of wax and requires special attention to ensure that it's applied evenly. However, it's different than wax in that it lasts A LOT longer. It's a permanent or semi-permanent bond (depending on the product you choose) and it doesn't break down easily as wax does. It won't come off when you wash your car, and you won't have to reapply it every few months as you do with a car wax. That in itself is a benefit; you won't have to spend an hour in the garage rewaxing your car every few months. However, there are multiple other benefits to ceramic coating and our Clermont auto repair techs are here to explain them to you. Clermont Toyota car care tips

What are the benefits of this product for your Clermont Toyota?

Benefit #1: Your car will be easier to clean. Ceramic coating is hydrophobic so it repels water. This means dirt, mud, and grime won't stick as easily to your car - instead, it'll bead up and slide off without a whole lot of effort (which means a lot more rinsing and a lot less scrubbing on your behalf). Benefit #2: You'll have a lot more protection for your paint and in turn, your car. Ceramic coating repels water, which means it repels moisture (and in turn can help ward off rust and other water-related damage). Additionally, it can protect your car's paint from fading and dulling due to UV rays and oxidization as well as chemical stains (like when you hit a cloud of lovebugs). It can even ward off some small chips and scratches from road debris. Benefit #3: Your car will just LOOK better. Ceramic coating keeps your paint's shine high so you'll always have a glossy look to it like you just drove off the lot.

The different types of ceramic coating and how much they cost

There are many different types of ceramic coating that you can choose from your Clermont Toyota. The different types come with different processes and prices. If you're inquiring about which type of ceramic coating is best for your Car, Toyota of Clermont experts are here to help you. Let's get into the details. 

Two different types of ceramic coating

Professional Grade Ceramic Coatings: 

This kind of ceramic coating is a professional grade for your Clermont Toyota. Professional grade ceramic coatings are ones where you go to a specialist to apply this to your Car. These are usually more expensive than consumer-grade ceramic coatings, although they provide more quality and reliability. In addition, these can last up to 10 years. 

Consumer Grade Ceramic Coatings: 

These are ceramic coatings that you can do on your own. These run to be cheaper than the professional grade ceramic coatings, however, they require more work, and there's more room for possible error. There are also two types of consumer-grade ceramic coatings you can choose if you want to go the do-it-yourself route. Let's get into the details about both of these options. These can last up to one to three years. 
  • Spray Coatings: You can apply this from a spray can directly to your Car's exterior. It's similar to spray on wax, where you spray it on a clean surface and wipe it away with a microfiber cloth. 

  • DIY Ceramic Coatings: These can be purchased by anyone online on Amazon or auto detailing websites. They are more affordable options and require more detailing experience. 

Different areas that you can apply it: 

  • Body Paint 
  • Glass
  • Wheel 
  • Trim 

How much to ceramic coat a car?

Professional Grade Ceramic Coating

  • It can cost from $250 to $3000

Consumer Grade Ceramic Coating

  • Spray coating: $15 to 100
  • DIY Ceramic Coating: $50 to $100 per ceramic coating kit.
However, prices may vary based on location, process, where you're getting it done, and your car model. 

Why it can be worth the money?

Ceramic Coatings are great for protecting your Car's exterior paint and durability. Unfortunately, you may have to pay extra for this to be done to your Car. However, it's worth the money because it adds convenience to everyday driving conditions like mud on your Clermont Toyota. In addition, it protects the integrity of your exterior and sustains a better quality appearance every day and in the long run. Are you looking for a place to get your ceramic coating done? Check out Toyota of Clermont's body shop for this service. 

How does it affect resale value?

If you're looking to trade in your Car or sell your Car, there are a few things to consider. One of those is the condition of your Car. Ceramic coatings on your Clermont Toyota keep your Car's exterior paint maintained and, in return, affects your resale value by eliminating costs. Those costs could include retouching, repairing, or replacing the Car's paint over time. Again, this keeps your Car's value high.  Curious as to how this unique product can protect and restore your car? We've got all the answers you need and can help you decide if this product is right for your ride. Call Toyota of Clermont to chat with one of our auto service techs! We're here seven days a week at (352) 404-7001. You can also swing by to see us at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike!
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