Ceramic coating on Underground … yes or no?

[TulameenGal]

Just ordered my 2026 Hybrid off road Premium. Should I get the Ceramic Coating package? It’s pricey, but with what I’ve read on the durability of the Underground paint we’re thinking it may be worth getting. I typically keep my vehicles for around 15 years and wax twice a year (the Mustang maybe more) and dealer says ceramic coating means no waxing? We live very rural, lots of snow and gravel roads.

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[get.outside.75]

From the dealer? No. From someone that knows what they are doing, maybe. Ceramic coating doesn't help protect against rock chips, only PPF.

 

[Tarekith]

Ceramic coating will not do anything for durability, they are literally only a few atoms thin. It won’t do anything against rocks or scratches.

You don’t need to wax a ceramic coated car, but you do need to apply a sealant topper every 6 months to a year to keep it functioning like it was when freshly applied. I had my last 3 vehicles ceramic coated, but these days I just use Griot’s 3-1 ceramic spray coating every 4-6 months. It’s super easy to apply (I can do the whole 4Runner in 20 minutes), about the same time and effort as a ceramic topper. It also lasts just as long (or longer) as I would go in between applying ceramic coating toppers, so these days I don’t bother with ceramic coatings and just use the Griots. Same looks and functionality but thousands cheaper.

If you DO decide to get a ceramic coating, DO NOT do it at the dealer. They charge you way too much for an inferior product, usually it’s just a cheap spray like the Griots I mention before. Take it to a reputable auto detailer who specializes in ceramic coatings, it will last a LOT longer.

 

[NotApplicable]

Ceramic coating will not do anything for durability

This. Ceramic coating is for cleanliness and shininess, does nothing* for protection.

* I guess you could argue it offers some protection against contaminants by way of making them less able to adhere to the surface, but certainly nothing against physical/kinetic damage.

 

[Mad Ghost]

if you can afford it 1000% do PPF. I PFP my Toyota highlander and it looked brand new 5 years later. Wasn't in the budget on the 4runner and I have a few rock chips after 13k miles.

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