There’s no shortage of opinions when it comes to car ceramic coating. Some are helpful. Many are half-truths. And a few are flat-out myth.
So, today I want to tackle the most common ceramic coating myths head-on and replace them with the truth about ceramic coating, so you can make an informed decision about paint protection… without the hype.
If you’ve heard conflicting claims about ceramic coats, scratch resistance, or whether ceramic coating paint protection is permanent, you’re not alone. These are the common myths about ceramic coating we hear every week.
Myth #1: A Ceramic Coat Prevents Every Scratch
This is the big one… and easily the most damaging myth (pun intended!).
A ceramic coat does not prevent all types of scratch damage. It can help reduce minor scratches and swirl marks, but it won’t stop a rock chip, deep impact, or sharp object from damaging your clear coat.
The truth
Ceramic coating will help prevent light surface scratches caused by washing and drying, but it won’t make your car bulletproof. Any detailer telling you otherwise is selling a misconception.
Myth #2: Ceramic Coatings Last Forever
This myth refuses to die.
Some people believe ceramic coating is permanent on the paint and never wears off. While it’s true that a nano ceramic coating forms a strong, permanent bond to the paint, no coating lasts forever in real-world automotive conditions.
The truth
Ceramic coatings last years, not decades, but then again, most people don’t keep their cars for decades. Longevity depends on the coating product, prep work, and how the ceramic coated vehicle is maintained. High-quality ceramic coating can dramatically extend protection, but it still wears gradually.
Myth #3: You Don’t Need to Wash a Ceramic Coated Car
This one sounds appealing… and yet, it’s completely unrealistic.
Ceramic coatings make a car easier to clean, easier to detail, but they don’t eliminate washing entirely.
The truth
You still need to wash your car. Just maybe not as regularly. The difference is that dirt and grime don’t stick as easily, bird droppings are less aggressive, and washing and drying take far less effort. While it cannot clean itself (!) a ceramic coated car stays cleaner longer.
Myth #4: Ceramic Coating Is Just an Expensive Sealant or Wax
This myth usually comes from comparing ceramic coating to traditional paint protection products.
Wax or sealant sits on top of the paint and breaks down quickly. Ceramic coating chemically bonds to the clear coat, forming a far more durable protective coating.
The truth
Ceramic coating paint protection offers superior longevity, better resistance to UV exposure, and stronger protection and shine than wax or sealant. Same category, very different performance.
Myth #5: Dealer Ceramic Is the Same as Professional Ceramic Coating
This myth catches more new car buyers than any other.
Dealership ceramic packages often involve minimal prep work, no paint correction, and a quick application of a coating product designed for speed, not durability.
The other reason it’s not the same is this: For a similar price, there are more people involved in the process, so the loser is the customer who gets a cheaper product to make sure everyone gets their cut.
The truth
Professional ceramic coating services focus on preparation, polishing, and controlled application. Same term, wildly different result. (If you’re already reading this on this site… you’ve probably worked that out.)
Myth #6: Older Cars Don’t Benefit From Ceramic Coating
Ceramic coating isn’t just for a new car fresh off the lot.
The truth
Older vehicles can benefit enormously from ceramic coating provided proper paint correction and polishing are done first. In fact, the transformation on a well-detailed older car is often more noticeable than on new vehicles.
Myth #7: DIY Ceramic Coating Kits Deliver the Same Results
DIY ceramic coating kits have exploded in popularity, but so have the failures.
The truth
DIY ceramic coating can work if prep, application, and curing are done perfectly. Most issues come from rushed prep work, uneven application, or misunderstanding how ceramic coatings require maintenance. Many people try DIY first… then quietly book a professional ceramic coating once expectations meet reality. Call us at Matt Bull Window Tinting if you need some advice about applying your DIY product. It’s probably worth saying that our facility has the ideal set up for the job. Your garage probably won’t cut the mustard!
Myth #8: Ceramic Coating Makes Paint Protection Film Unnecessary
Ceramic coating and paint protection film are often confused as competitors.
The truth
They serve different purposes. Paint protection film absorbs impact and prevents rock chip damage. Ceramic coating focuses on chemical resistance, ease of cleaning, and long-term surface protection. Many ceramic coated vehicles actually use both.
The Greater Brisbane Truth About Ceramic Coating
Here’s the real takeaway behind all these myths surrounding ceramic coating:
A ceramic coat works incredibly well when expectations are realistic and the coating is applied properly. It’s not magic. It’s not hype. And it’s definitely not just wax.
Understanding the truth behind ceramic coating helps you protect your car properly and avoid disappointment.
What This Means for Car Owners
If you’re weighing up ceramic coating, don’t focus on the loudest claims. Focus on facts, preparation, and experience.
Once you understand how ceramic coating really works, choosing whom to trust with your car tends to become pretty obvious.
(We’ll stop there before this plug becomes too shameless 😄. Heck, just call Matt Bull Window Tinting on 0400 700 154!)
