How to Maintain PPF and Ceramic Coating

PPF and ceramic coating dramatically reduce the work required to keep a car looking new — but they are not maintenance-free. Following this short routine will keep both performing for the full warranty period.

Washing

Hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo, two-bucket method (one wash, one rinse), microfiber wash mitt. Touchless commercial car washes are acceptable if needed. Avoid automatic brush car washes entirely — the bristles can lift film edges over time and dull the ceramic gloss. Wash every 1–2 weeks in summer, every 2–3 weeks in winter.

Drying

Use a clean microfiber drying towel or a forced-air dryer. Avoid chamois and waffle-weave towels that may have collected grit. Dry within a few minutes of rinsing to prevent water spots — Southern Oregon's hard water spots ceramic coatings quickly if left to air-dry in summer.

Bug splatter and bird droppings

Remove within 24–48 hours. Ceramic coating resists chemical etching but doesn't prevent it indefinitely — bird droppings left for a week on a hot hood can etch through both coating and clear coat. A spray-on quick detailer and a soft microfiber removes both safely.

Annual maintenance

We offer a free PPF inspection at the 12-month mark and a low-cost ceramic top-coat at the 18–24 month mark. Both add years of life to the install. We notify clients automatically — no need to track it yourself.

What to avoid

Petroleum-based degreasers near film edges, alcohol-based cleaners on ceramic surfaces, magic-eraser pads, and aggressive polishing on PPF (it removes the self-healing layer). When in doubt, call us — advice is free.