If you’ve recently bought or are in the process of buying a new car you know that dealers will try to push all sorts of extras on you, from rust-proofing to so-called “paint protection packages.” The question is, are any of these extra services worth it? In the case of a dealership paint protection package, it’s advised that you pass.
What is a Dealership Paint Protection Package?
Typically, a paint protection package from a dealer is nothing more than a glorified wax job. They just apply a paint sealant and call it a day. While a paint sealant is not the worst thing you can do for your car, it’s not something you need a dealership to do for you and it would certainly be cheaper to do it yourself. Also, a polymer paint sealant will only protect your car for a few months, at best. So why do they charge such a high price for something you could do at home?
Most of the time you are being charged for a warranty against paint chips and scratches, but these dealership warranties can only fix damage after it has occurred. We prefer a preventative solution that protects your vehicle from being damaged in the first place.
Ceramic Coatings, Lifelong Protection
Unlike paint sealants and waxes, ceramic coatings form a permanent bond with your car’s paint. Ceramic coatings offer a much more durable protective layer that can withstand UV rays and other environmental hazards to a greater degree. In addition, they are hydrophobic, making it harder for dirt and debris to stick to them and making them easier to clean. The trade-off for this long lasting protection is that they are not as easy to apply, so it’s best left to the experts.
Take a look at the key differences between a ceramic coating from a detailer and your average dealership paint protection package.
| Ceramic Coating | Dealership Paint Protection | |
| Preparation | • Difficult to apply. Best left to the experts. • 2 step decontamination of paint. • Machine polish paint. • Removal of all oils prior to applying coating. | • Fairly easy to apply. You could do it at home. • Just wash and apply sealant. |
| Protection | • Nano-Ceramic based. • The best car paint protection available. • Super hydrophobic. • Resists UV damage. • Long-lasting. | • Polymer sealant. • Offers temporary protection. Similar to car wax. • Some are hydrophobic. |
| Length | Permanent | A few months at most |
| Warranty | Up to a lifetime warranty available from the coating manufacturers. | Warranty depends on the dealership and warranty company. Usually 5 – 7 years. |
At Details Matter, we have years of experience with ceramic coatings and we only use the best coatings in the business. We are certified installers of Ceramic Pro and Opti-Coat and members of the International Detailing Association, so you’re guaranteed expert service. For more information on our ceramic coating options and how they can protect your new car contact us today.
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