The Ultimate Guide to Ceramic Spray Coating Application and Maintenance

Start by washing the car in the shade. Apply an iron remover to the dry paintwork and wheels. Let it dwell for 3-5 minutes until it turns purple, indicating the dissolution of ferrous particles. Rinse thoroughly. This step is vital in Australia to remove industrial fallout and brake dust that 'bakes' into the paint in high heat.

Using a clay lubricant and a fine-grade clay bar, gently glide over the paint surface. You are listening for a 'scratchy' sound that disappears as the surface becomes smooth. This removes bonded contaminants like sap and overspray that washing cannot touch. A smooth surface is critical for the SiO2 molecules to bond uniformly.

Dry the vehicle using a dedicated large microfibre drying towel. Use compressed air or a car dryer to blow water out of window seals, door handles, and badges. Even a single drop of water running down the panel during the ceramic application can cause 'streaking' or 'spotting' in the final finish.

This is the most critical prep step. Spray an IPA-based prep solution onto a clean microfibre towel and wipe down one panel at a time. This removes any leftover lubricants, waxes, or finger oils. The goal is a 'squeaky clean' surface. If the towel drags, there is still residue present; repeat until the surface is surgically clean.

Ensure the vehicle surface temperature is between 15°C and 30°C. In the Australian summer, this usually means working in the early morning or late evening inside a garage. If the panel is too hot to touch comfortably, the carrier solvents in the ceramic spray will flash too quickly, causing high spots.

Lightly mist your application towel or pad with two sprays of the ceramic sealant. This 'primes' the cloth so it doesn't soak up all the product during the first wipe. Use a low-pile microfibre for application to ensure even distribution.

Work in small sections, approximately 50cm x 50cm (e.g., a quarter of a bonnet). Spray the product directly onto the panel or the towel (refer to specific product instructions). Apply in a cross-hatch pattern—horizontal lines followed by vertical lines—to ensure 100% coverage.

Watch the product on the paint. It will initially look wet, then may begin to 'bead' or look like an oil slick. This is the 'flash' time. In 30°C heat, this can happen in as little as 30-60 seconds. Do not let the product dry completely on the panel.

Using a fresh, clean microfibre towel, gently wipe over the section to level the product. This spreads the SiO2 particles evenly. Use light pressure; you are not trying to scrub it off, but rather to flatten the layer.

Immediately flip your towel to a dry side or use a secondary high-GSM buffing towel to remove any remaining residue. Buff in circular motions until the surface is crystal clear. Check the panel from multiple angles using a bright LED torch to ensure no 'shadows' or streaks remain.

Move to the next 50cm section, ensuring you slightly overlap with the previously treated area. This prevents 'holidays' (missed spots) in the protection. Repeat the process across the entire vehicle, working from top to bottom.

Many modern ceramic sprays are safe for exterior plastics and glass. Apply to these areas using the same method. On glass, it provides incredible water sheeting, while on black plastics, it helps prevent the 'greying' effect caused by Australian UV exposure.

Wait 20 minutes after completion and do a final walk-around with a light. If you find a 'high spot' (a dark, oily-looking smear), try to buff it out with a tiny bit more product on a towel. If it has hardened, you may need a light polish to remove it and then re-apply.

Keep the vehicle completely dry for at least 4 to 12 hours (refer to your specific product's bottle). Avoid driving in the rain or near sprinklers. The SiO2 molecules are cross-linking during this time; moisture interference will weaken the bond and reduce longevity.