5 Things That Will Ruin Your Ceramic Coating (And How to Avoid Them)

Callum Foster

Whether you’ve just had ceramic coating applied or you’re considering getting your vehicle protected, one thing is certain - proper care matters.


We often say that protection is only as good as how it’s maintained. Ceramic coating is an incredible tool for preserving your paintwork, but it isn't a magic shield. Like anything, it has its limits, and a few bad habits can really reduce its performance and lifespan.


Here are the top 5 things that can ruin your coating, and what to do instead to keep your finish looking as good as the day you picked it up from us.

1. Drive-Thru or Automatic Car Washes

They’re quick, easy, and tempting, especially in the winter. But those big spinning brushes? They’re swirl mark machines.

Worse still, many drive-through washes use harsh chemicals that break down the hydrophobic layer of your ceramic coating over time, making it less effective and dulling the finish.

✅ What to do instead: Stick to a hand wash using pH-neutral shampoo and proper microfibre mitts. Or if you’re short on time, ask us about professional maintenance washes, which we offer in both our Perth and Elgin studios.


2. Not Decontaminating the Paint Regularly

Even if your car looks clean, it's still being hit daily by tar, iron fallout, tree sap, and other invisible contaminants. Over time, these can build up and start to clog your ceramic coating, making it feel rough and reducing water behaviour (you’ll notice it stops beading or sheeting like it used to).

✅ What to do instead: Every few months, use a tar & glue remover and iron fallout remover to deep clean your paint. This will keep your coating clear, slick, and performing like new.


3. Using Household Cleaners on Your Car

We’ve seen it all, from dish soap to window cleaner, even kitchen degreasers. These can strip your coating, stain trims, and leave streaks or damage that’s tough (and expensive) to fix.

✅ What to do instead: Always use detailing specific products that are safe for coated surfaces. If you're unsure what to buy, just drop us a message, and we’ll be happy to recommend products that we use ourselves.

4. Letting Bird Droppings or Tree Sap Sit

Coatings are chemical resistant, but they’re not indestructible. Bird mess and tree sap are acidic, and if left too long, they can etch through even a ceramic coated surface, leaving permanent marks in the paint or film.

✅ What to do instead: Remove bird mess and sap as soon as you spot them using a quick detailer spray or ceramic safe cleaner. Always blot, don’t wipe, to avoid scratching.


5. Neglecting Top-Ups and Boosters

Ceramic coatings like Gtechniq’s Crystal Serum Ultra are designed to last up to 9 years, but that’s with the right care. Without top ups, the top layer can wear down faster, especially in harsh Scottish weather.

✅ What to do instead: Apply a ceramic safe topper like Gtechniq C2V3 or C2V4 every 3-6 months to boost gloss and hydrophobic performance.


Want That Freshly Coated Feel Again?

If your coating is feeling tired, water isn’t beading like it used to, or you're just unsure if it’s still doing its job — we can help. A maintenance detail or light top-up might be all that’s needed to get things back on track.

Final Thoughts

You’ve invested in your vehicle’s protection — and with just a bit of care, that investment can go a long way. Avoiding these common mistakes will help your ceramic coating or PPF look better, last longer, and keep your paintwork in showroom condition for years to come.

Need help with maintenance or want to book a check-up?
📍 Drop into our Perth or Elgin studios
📩 Or message us directly — we’re always happy to help.

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