Paint Protection/Care

[Daedalus0101101]

So just curious as to what other people are doing to protect the paint/surface of the vehicle they have. Out of the three most popular options ( that I have heard of), between PPF, Wax, and Ceramic I am curious if the value is there for the option. I am starting to see some slight scratches, swirls in my paint and while I know that I myself can never get it perfect again ( inexperience) I would like to keep it looking as good as long as possible. I live in a mid-rise apartment complex so my options are to take it and have it hand washed. While hand washing is better than automatic machines, I know that they are a business and looking to turn around on as many cars as possible with minor to no issues. That being said, I know that they wouldn't hand wash a car as I would because they don't own it.

Out of the three, I am considering doing some minor scratch/swirl removal, polish the car and then possibly ceramic coat it, but if regular wax/polishing keeps the scratches and swirls away then its not a bad trade off and costs less.

[John in VA]

A ceramic coating is harder/more protective from scratches/swirls than a sacrificial coating of wax or newer synthetic sealants. A wax or sealant offers water beading and gloss, but not much protection from "abusive washing." There are many detailers that offer hand washes & do it properly (at least where I live!).

PPF offers protection from rock chips, road debris & scratches/swirls from poor wash techniques. The paint is normally prepped to perfection before the film is applied. What you choose depends on your driving/storing habits & budget.

[NervoS]

Talked to my local shop about ceramic and/or ppf. They warned me that ceramic coating is not panacea, it requires care and maintenance ("boosting"). I actually need to learn more about the ceramic before deciding whether I am doing it or just ppf.

[Daedalus0101101]

Maybe I'll start with the least expensive route ( paint/swirl removal) and see how long it takes me to do that and how long it lasts. Irritated, but also have some door dings because of careless neighbors. I know thats going to happen and that PPF probably could have prevented that. One of the downfalls of living in a mid-rise with shared garage.

[TboneS54]

Originally Posted by John in VA

A ceramic coating is harder/more protective from scratches/swirls than a sacrificial coating of wax or newer synthetic sealants.

That's not really correct. It has better chemical resistance, but it doesn't not protect the car from physical marring. That's only PPF.