How to maintain your ceramic coating
Ceramic coating is one of the best investments you can make for your vehicle’s long-term appearance and protection — but like any premium protection, it needs proper care to perform at its best. At Hook Detailing, we often get asked how to maintain that glossy, hydrophobic finish over time. Whether you’ve just had a 3-year coating applied or gone all-in with a 9-year graphene system, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maximise its lifespan and keep your car looking freshly detailed every day.
Step-by-Step: How to Care for Your Ceramic Coating
Step 1: Wait Before Washing (Initial Cure Time)
Avoid washing your car for at least 14 days after coating application.
Keep it dry and away from contaminants like bird droppings or tree sap during this time.
Step 2: Use a Contactless Pre-Wash
Rinse the car with water to remove loose dirt.
Use a foam cannon with a pH-neutral snow foam to loosen grime without touching the surface.
Let the foam dwell for 2–5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Step 3: Gentle Hand Wash Only
Use the two-bucket method (one for soap, one for rinse water) or a clean wash mitt with a grit guard.
Choose a pH-neutral car shampoo that’s ceramic-safe.
Wash top to bottom in straight lines (never circles), panel by panel.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry Carefully
Rinse the car completely with clean water.
Dry using a plush microfiber drying towel, gently patting or dragging without pressure.
Avoid air drying or letting the sun dry the water to prevent water spots.
Step 5: Apply a Ceramic Booster (Optional but Recommended)
Every 2–3 months, apply a ceramic-safe topper or booster spray.
This enhances water beading and helps maintain that glossy finish between full details.
Step 6: Remove Contaminants Quickly
Remove bird droppings, bug splatter, and tree sap as soon as possible using a soft microfiber towel and dedicated quick detailer or coating-safe cleaner.
Step 7: Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Tools
Do not use abrasive polishes, waxes, clay bars, or aggressive degreasers.
Avoid automatic car washes with brushes — they’ll damage both the coating and your paint.
Washing & Maintenance Tips
The golden rule of ceramic coating care is: avoid automated tunnel car washes. These can cause micro-scratches and break down the coating prematurely. Instead, use a contactless foam cannon pre-wash followed by a gentle hand wash with pH-neutral soap. Always use clean microfiber mitts and dry the car with a soft, high-GSM drying towel to prevent swirl marks. We recommend washing every 2–3 weeks and topping up with a compatible ceramic booster every few months to refresh hydrophobicity and gloss.
What to Avoid
To get the most out of your coating, avoid harsh chemicals, acidic wheel cleaners, or clay bars unless necessary. Never wash your car in direct sunlight, as this can lead to water spotting. Bird droppings and bug splatter should be removed as soon as possible to prevent etching. For those in coastal areas like Wollongong, it's especially important to rinse off salt buildup regularly, especially after beach visits or rainy weeks.
