The Truth About New Car Prep, And Why Dealer Protection Often Doesn't Cut It

Callum Foster

The Truth About "Lifetime" Ceramic Coatings: What You're Really Getting

If you've been researching ceramic coatings online, you've probably come across bold claims like “lifetime protection” or “never polish your car again.” Sounds too good to be true, right? Well… it kind of is.

Let’s break it down: no fluff, no sales pitch, just honest information about what these coatings actually offer, and what you should really expect.


What is a “Lifetime Coating”?

The term “lifetime” can mean different things depending on who’s using it. For some brands, it means the lifetime of the coating itself. For others, it means the lifetime of your ownership. And in a few cases, it might even mean until the coating fails.

In reality, no ceramic coating will last forever, especially without maintenance. They aren’t bulletproof shields. They're high-performance sacrificial layers designed to protect your paint, make cleaning easier, and keep your car looking fresh for longer. But they need care to keep performing at the highest level.


The Catch? Maintenance.

Even “lifetime” coatings will come with a maintenance schedule. It could be a combination of annual inspections, reapplication of toppers, and proper wash techniques. If you miss those, and your warranty can vanish faster than beading on a neglected bonnet.

At Spotless, we’re transparent with our customers. We offer 2-year, 5-year, and 9-year ceramic coatings, and each comes with a realistic breakdown of how long it’ll last with proper care. No gimmicks, no misleading promises. Just products that do what they say they do, for as long as they’re meant to.


So Why Do Some Detailers Push the “Lifetime” Angle?

Marketing. It’s a buzzword. It grabs attention. And yes, there are some genuinely durable coatings out there (we use a few ourselves), but the idea of a “fit and forget” solution that lasts forever just doesn’t match real world driving, weather, and washing conditions.

Your paint is constantly exposed to the elements, road grime, and bird droppings. A ceramic coating can’t work miracles without your help.


The Bottom Line

Ceramic coatings are an amazing tool to help protect and preserve your vehicle. But if someone tells you it’s a one time application that lasts forever, it’s worth digging a little deeper.

If you're ever unsure, stop by our branch or drop us a message, and we’ll talk you through the realistic pros and cons of every option. We’re not here to sell you on “lifetime.” We’re here to help you protect your car properly.


Need advice on what coating suits your car and lifestyle best? Get in touch, we’re always happy to chat.

How We Decontaminate Your Paint Before Coating: A Step by Step Breakdown

By Callum Foster • October 27, 2025
At Spotless Detailing, when customers book in for ceramic coating, one of the most common surprises is how much prep goes into the process before the coating even touches the paintwork. Why? Because ceramic coating is only as good as the surface it bonds to. You can have the best coating in the world, but if it’s applied over embedded contaminants or minor paint defects, it won’t perform or last the way it should. That’s why our team puts such a huge focus on prep work and paint decontamination before every ceramic job. Here’s a breakdown of how we make sure your car’s paint is in prime condition before protection begins.

Ceramic Coating vs. PPF - Which Is Right for You?

By Callum Foster • October 21, 2025
When it comes to protecting your car’s paint, there are two standout options: ceramic coating and paint protection film (PPF). Both are designed to help preserve your vehicle’s finish, but they work in very different ways and choosing the right one depends on your car, your driving habits, and your long term goals. At Spotless Detailing, we offer both options at our Perth and Elgin studios, and we’re often asked which is “better.” The truth is, it depends. Here's what you need to know.

Autumn/Winter Car Protection: Why Now’s the Best Time to Act

By Callum Foster • October 14, 2025
As the nights draw in and the temperatures drop, it’s easy to forget what’s happening to your car’s paintwork under the surface. But if there’s ever a time to protect your vehicle, it’s right now, before the salt, grime and winter abuse kicks in. ❄️ Why Protect Now, Not Mid Winter Once the roads are covered in grit, mud and salt, your car is already on the back foot. Applying protection before exposure helps seal the paintwork while it’s still in good condition, not after the damage is done. Salt and grit wear down gloss and increase the risk of corrosion Cold temperatures make contaminants harder to remove once embedded Rain, sleet and frost reduce the visibility of fine scratches until the sun comes out again in spring, and all is revealed

🚘 Alpine A290 Protected!

By Callum Foster • October 1, 2025
Wee cars get the Spotless treatment too

Keeping That “New Car” Feeling Alive

By Callum Foster • September 22, 2025
There’s nothing quite like that new car feeling. Glossy paint, spotless wheels, and a fresh interior make every drive feel special. The challenge, of course, is keeping that look and feel long after the day you pick it up. The good news? With a few simple habits, you can keep your car looking sharp week after week, preserve its value, and maintain that sense of pride every time you walk up to it.

The Future of Car Protection: Where Detailing Is Headed

By Callum Foster • September 17, 2025
Car care has come a long way from the days of hand waxes and polishing. Today, technology is reshaping how we protect, maintain, and enjoy our vehicles, and it’s only accelerating. At Spotless Detailing, we see these innovations first hand in our Perth and Elgin studios, and it’s clear that the future of car protection is smarter, more durable, and more sustainable than ever before. So, where is detailing headed in the years to come?

Fresh 75-Plates, Fresh Protection at SD Group

By Callum Foster • September 11, 2025
It’s been an exciting start to September here at Spotless Detailing Group , with our workshops in both Perth and Elgin buzzing as customers collect their brand new 75-plate cars . There’s nothing quite like that new car feeling, and we love helping owners make it last.

SD Group - Our 5-Star Reuptation

By Callum Foster • September 4, 2025
At SD Group, we take pride in delivering high quality work and exceptional customer service. Thanks to our amazing customers, we’re proud to hold a 5-star rating on Google🌟 We’ve been fortunate enough to work with some amazing people who trust us with their vehicles, whether it’s a full paint correction, ceramic coating, or paint protection film. Their feedback tells the story of high quality work, attention to detail, and a team that always goes the extra mile. 

Think We’re Too Far Away? SD Group Has You Covered

By Callum Foster • August 26, 2025
At Spotless Detailing, we know that being without your car while it’s in for paint protection or correction can sometimes be inconvenient. That’s why we offer courtesy cars are at both our Elgin and Perth branches, to make our services even more accessible and stress free for our customers.

Is Glass Coating Worth It?

By Callum Foster • July 21, 2025
Living in the UK means dealing with unpredictable weather, rainy commutes, and winter grime - all of which take a toll on your visibility behind the wheel. While most people focus on paint protection like ceramic coatings and PPF, one of the most overlooked upgrades is glass coating, and it might just be the game changer your driving experience needs.