Introduction
Ceramic coating is one of the best ways to protect your car’s paint, enhance gloss, and reduce maintenance. But here’s a fact: many car owners ruin the coating within weeks without realizing it.
If you’ve recently got your car coated (or are planning to), this guide is a must-read. At FilmShoppee, we’ve detailed hundreds of vehicles across India — and these are the top 10 mistakes people make after ceramic coating, along with tips to avoid them.
1. Washing the Car Too Soon
Mistake: Washing the car within 48–72 hours after ceramic coating.
Why it’s bad:
The coating needs time to cure and bond properly with the paint. Early washing (especially pressure wash) can weaken the layer or remove it entirely.
What to do:
Wait at least 5–7 days before the first wash. If absolutely needed, use a dry microfiber cloth for light dusting.
2. Using Regular Car Shampoos
Mistake: Using strong or cheap detergents.
Why it’s bad:
Harsh shampoos strip away the hydrophobic layer and reduce shine over time.
What to do:
Use pH-neutral shampoo specially designed for coated cars (available at FilmShoppee outlets).
3. Automatic Car Wash with Rollers
Mistake: Visiting drive-thru car washes with spinning brushes.
Why it’s bad:
These create swirl marks and can damage the coating, especially on edges and curves.
What to do:
Opt for manual washing or touchless jet washes only.
4. Drying the Car with Regular Towels
Mistake: Using kitchen towels, old T-shirts, or bathroom cloths.
Why it’s bad:
They leave micro-scratches and lint, ruining the gloss finish.
What to do:
Use only high GSM microfiber towels (min. 300 GSM or higher) to wipe and dry your car.
5. Parking Under Trees for Long Hours
Mistake: Regularly parking under trees for shade.
Why it’s bad:
Tree sap, bird droppings, and acidic residue can etch through the coating if not cleaned quickly.
What to do:
- Use a car cover if no covered parking is available.
- Clean bird droppings ASAP with a detailing spray.
6. Skipping Top-Up Maintenance
Mistake: Thinking ceramic coating is 100% maintenance-free.
Why it’s bad:
Even high-grade coatings lose performance over time without regular maintenance.
What to do:
- Use a top-up spray sealant every 3–6 months.
- FilmShoppee offers annual maintenance packages for ceramic clients.
7. Applying Wax or Polish on Top
Mistake: Waxing a ceramic-coated car.
Why it’s bad:
Waxes don’t bond with ceramic and may cause patchy results or streaks.
What to do:
Skip waxing. Instead, use ceramic booster sprays if you want extra gloss.
8. Not Cleaning Water Spots Immediately
Mistake: Leaving water drops to dry naturally.
Why it’s bad:
Water contains minerals that can leave stains and spots, especially in hard water areas.
What to do:
- Always dry your car after washing.
- Use filtered water if possible.
- For existing spots, visit a professional detailer.
9. Ignoring Interior Detailing
Mistake: Only focusing on the exterior.
Why it’s bad:
Dusty dashboards, dirty leather, and foggy glass reduce the overall premium feel.
What to do:
Get interior ceramic protection (FilmShoppee offers dashboard, glass, and leather coatings too).
10. Choosing Low-Quality Ceramic Coating
Mistake: Getting cheap ceramic jobs from unverified shops.
Why it’s bad:
Many budget ceramic products in the market are fake or diluted, offering only temporary shine.
What to do:
Always choose a certified applicator with a proven track record. At FilmShoppee, we use only genuine, tested brands and trained technicians.
Final Thoughts – Get the Best from Your Ceramic Coating
Ceramic coating is a fantastic investment only if maintained correctly. Avoid these common mistakes, and your car will continue to look stunning for years.
Want your coating to last up to 5 years with proper shine?
Visit your nearest FilmShoppee Studio
We offer:
- Certified Ceramic & Graphene Coatings
- Free maintenance kits
- Annual service plans
- Expert advice tailored to your car & location