Ceramic Coating Aftercare: How to Wash a Coated Car

A ceramic coating makes a car much easier to keep clean, but it isn't maintenance-free. How you wash and look after the car decides whether the coating keeps performing for its full life. Here's a simple aftercare routine.

The first two weeks

A coating keeps hardening for a while after it's applied.

• Keep the car dry for the first day if you can, and avoid washing it for the first week.
• Remove bird droppings and sap gently with water and a soft microfibre cloth.
• Avoid automatic car washes entirely.

We'll give you the exact instructions for your coating when we finish the job.

How to wash a ceramic coated car

1. Rinse first

A thorough rinse removes loose dust and grit, which is what causes scratches when you wash.

2. Use the two-bucket method

One bucket with a pH-neutral car wash, one with clean water to rinse the mitt. This keeps grit out of your wash water.

3. Wash top to bottom

Use a clean microfibre mitt, working panel by panel. Leave the dirtiest areas, like the lower doors and bumpers, until last.

4. Wheels separately

Use a separate brush and bucket for the wheels so brake dust never touches the paint.

5. Dry gently

Use a large, soft drying towel or an air blower. Coated paint sheds water quickly, so drying is easy.

What to avoid

• Automatic car washes with brushes
• Dishwashing liquid and harsh degreasers
• Abrasive polishes and cutting compounds
• Washing in direct sun or on hot paint
• Old, dirty or rough towels

How often should you wash it?

Every two weeks is ideal for a daily driver, and more often if it's parked under trees or near the coast. Coated cars take far less time to wash, so it's a quicker job than before.

Do you need a top-up product?

A coating-safe spray sealant or detailer every few months can boost water beading and gloss. It isn't essential, but it helps. Ask us which products suit your coating.

Keeping the warranty

Our Gtechniq coatings come with a 5 or 9-year warranty from Gtechniq. Warranty conditions usually include proper maintenance, so keep to the washing routine and avoid harsh chemicals. We explain everything when we hand the car back.

Not coated yet?

If you're still deciding, read is ceramic coating worth it in Sydney? or see how our mobile ceramic coating works.

Common questions

When can I wash my car after ceramic coating?

Wait about a week before the first wash, and keep it dry for the first day if you can.

Can I take a ceramic coated car through an automatic car wash?

It's best not to. Brushes and harsh chemicals wear the coating and leave swirl marks.

What soap should I use on a coated car?

A pH-neutral car wash. Avoid dishwashing liquid and degreasers.

Does the coating need topping up?

Not necessarily, but a coating-safe spray sealant every few months can boost gloss and water beading.