Ceramic Coating a used car

[race24x]

So I have a 2014 Camaro SS black. It has the usual dings etc on the front end. I really like how the ceramic coating came out on my friends Corvette, however even after cleaning up my paint (I worked in a recon department) and wet sanding buffing the front and buffing the whole car, I am not sure about ceramic coating it and would it be worth it. I would do it myself since I have already done the clay bar and buffing (which it seems like is the most of the work). Has anyone done ceramic coating themselves? What did you think? What did you use?

[HAMBO]

I didn't apply my own coating, but from I understand you're supposed to do immediately after compounding / polishing (ie. don't drive the car in between polishing and coating) for best results.

The Adams ceramic coating kit looks like a nice kit if you are looking for a DIY all in one package.

[Joe M 2012 2SS]

I've used several of the different versions on the market. I like Carpro CQuartz, but for ease of use.... Optimum Gloss Coat is the best. It self levels..... making excess removal a breeze.


Unlike many other coatings, if you like using carnauba wax, you can use it on top of it as well.


You should also get a bottle of Carpro Eraser, to wipe down the panel before applying your coating. This will remove any oils, polish residue, and anything that is on the surface that could affect the bond.

[Reichler]

A few weeks ago I applied Adams reformulated 9H paint coating on my 76k mile daily driven 04 GTO that sits outside 24/7. Damn am I impressed with the stuff and how easy and forgiving it was to apply and remove.

It's been 3 weeks since I've washed the car and the paint still looks incredibly clean. Dirt just doesn't seem to want to stick to it much at all.

[rontammy0]

Originally Posted by race24x

So I have a 2014 Camaro SS black. It has the usual dings etc on the front end. I really like how the ceramic coating came out on my friends Corvette, however even after cleaning up my paint (I worked in a recon department) and wet sanding buffing the front and buffing the whole car, I am not sure about ceramic coating it and would it be worth it. I would do it myself since I have already done the clay bar and buffing (which it seems like is the most of the work). Has anyone done ceramic coating themselves? What did you think? What did you use?

Before you do the ceramic coating buy yourself a bottle of the Ceramic Boost from Adams. I was looking at coating my car but saw the Boost is used at the end of the coating process. So I decided to try just the Ceramic Boost by itself. I claybared the car and put a good coat of wax on it. Then applied the Adams Ceramic Boost....the shine is incredible and seems durable. My car stays in the garage but I did my truck with great results. Its not quit the protection on the coating but damn does it shine.

[Reichler]

Originally Posted by rontammy0

Before you do the ceramic coating buy yourself a bottle of the Ceramic Boost from Adams. I was looking at coating my car but saw the Boost is used at the end of the coating process. So I decided to try just the Ceramic Boost by itself. I claybared the car and put a good coat of wax on it. Then applied the Adams Ceramic Boost....the shine is incredible and seems durable. My car stays in the garage but I did my truck with great results. Its not quit the protection on the coating but damn does it shine.

Sure does.

Use it on bare paint and it will last upwards of 2 months. That's what I was using before I decided to coat the car. Love the stuff.

[Joe M 2012 2SS]

FYI......Autogeek is having a 25% off free shipping over $50 sale...….Optimum Complete Prep & Coat kit is $56.24 after discounts and free shipping.


You get the coating, prep spray, and 6 microfiber towels. This is a good deal.

[HAMBO]

Originally Posted by Joe M 2012 2SS

FYI......Autogeek is having a 25% off free shipping over $50 sale...….Optimum Complete Prep & Coat kit is $56.24 after discounts and free shipping.


You get the coating, prep spray, and 6 microfiber towels. This is a good deal.

That is a great deal!

Another option to consider (I've not used it first hand but have heard good things) is Gyeon. DetailedImage is currently doing 15% off and free shipping no minimum on all Gyeon products.

[Whoomba]

I was just coming here to ask this question. Great advice. Is it too much to ask of it or does it help keep the rock dings down? I shoulda put a clear bra on it when it was new but now it would need painting first for that.

[Joe M 2012 2SS]

Originally Posted by Whoomba

I was just coming here to ask this question. Great advice. Is it too much to ask of it or does it help keep the rock dings down? I shoulda put a clear bra on it when it was new but now it would need painting first for that.

No it wont prevent rock chips, I put rock guards behind the front tires several years ago, as I got some chips on the "gill" areas of the rear quarter panels, haven't had a new chip since.

Dr.Colorchip is good for small chips, Langka works better for larger chips.


The best way to reduce rock chips on the front of the car if it's not covered with PPF is to allow 4-5 car lengths or more following distance whenever possible.

If you have the front bumper painted and put PPF on, you'll need to wait until the paint fully cures first, usually about 90 days.

[rontammy0]

Originally Posted by Reichler

Sure does.

Use it on bare paint and it will last upwards of 2 months. That's what I was using before I decided to coat the car. Love the stuff.

Ya...but it cost me almost $100 for 2 bottles shipped to my house. Thats Canadian

[Whoomba]

Originally Posted by Joe M 2012 2SS

No it wont prevent rock chips, I put rock guards behind the front tires several years ago, as I got some chips on the "gill" areas of the rear quarter panels, haven't had a new chip since.

Dr.Colorchip is good for small chips, Langka works better for larger chips.


The best way to reduce rock chips on the front of the car if it's not covered with PPF is to allow 4-5 car lengths or more following distance whenever possible.

If you have the front bumper painted and put PPF on, you'll need to wait until the paint fully cures first, usually about 90 days.

I know we’re hijacking the thread but Langka sounds interesting. I give it a try.