New Car Buyers: Avoid This Costly Ceramic Coating Mistake!
Professional Ceramic Coating vs. Dealership Options: What You Need to Know
When you buy a new car, the excitement of driving off the lot is unbeatable. You want your car to stay in that pristine, showroom condition for as long as possible. To achieve that, you might hear about ceramic coating—either from the dealership or a professional detailer.
As a professional ceramic coating installer, I’ve had countless conversations with car owners who’ve faced this exact decision. Here’s the honest truth: not all ceramic coatings (or application processes) are created equal. Let’s break down the differences between dealership options and professional ceramic coating services so you can make the best choice for your new ride.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a Silica Dioxide (SiO2) based liquid polymer that bonds with your car’s paint to create a protective layer. It shields against environmental damage like UV rays, bird droppings, and tree sap while making your car easier to clean.
It’s not a magic shield that makes your car invincible, but it’s one of the best long-term solutions for maintaining a glossy finish and protecting your paintwork. The key is proper application—something that can vary significantly depending on where you get it done.
What Dealership Ceramic Coating Offers
The Convenience Factor
Dealerships often offer ceramic coating as part of their “premium protection packages.” It’s pitched as a convenient add-on—you don’t have to book a separate appointment, and your car leaves the dealership “protected.”
The Reality of Upselling
The pitch often sounds like this: “For just a little extra, we’ll add this amazing ceramic coating to protect your car!” However, that “little extra” can quickly become a big cost. Dealerships typically talk up these services significantly, and many customers don’t realise they’re paying for something that might not live up to its promise.
The Common Drawbacks
Here’s where things get tricky:
- Generic Products: Most dealerships use mass-produced coatings designed for quick application. These products often lack the durability or effectiveness of professional-grade coatings.
- Limited Expertise: Dealership technicians are usually trained to perform a wide variety of tasks, but ceramic coating isn’t always their specialty. Poor prep or rushed application can lead to uneven coverage or reduced longevity.
- Pricey Packages: The cost of dealership coatings is often inflated to include commissions and overheads, which means you’re paying premium prices for a basic service.
I once had a customer come to me after getting a dealership ceramic coating that barely lasted two months. He felt frustrated that he’d spent so much for so little and wanted a solution that would actually work.
What a Professional Ceramic Coating Installer Offers
Specialised Expertise
When you choose a professional installer, you’re working with someone who lives and breathes ceramic coating. From surface preparation to application, everything is done with precision.
For instance, at High Roller Detailing, we don’t just apply ceramic coating—we inspect every inch of your car’s paint, correct any imperfections, and ensure the surface is perfect before applying the coating. This attention to detail makes all the difference in the final result.
Tailored Products For Your Needs
Professional installers often work with high-quality, specialised products that outperform the generic options found at dealerships.
For example, we use Fireball products, which are renowned for their durability, gloss, and hydrophobic properties. Installers must have their skill level assessed and approved before being certified to install.
A Comprehensive Process
Proper preparation is the backbone of any ceramic coating application. A professional detailer will thoroughly wash, decontaminate, and perform paint correction. This ensures the coating bonds correctly and delivers the best results.
Cost Comparison: Dealership vs Professional
Dealership Costs
Dealership ceramic coating packages often come bundled with extras you might not need, like interior protection or window tinting. While these bundles might seem appealing, they can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 (or MORE!) for a coating that’s often applied quickly, without proper preparation and not built to last.
Professional Costs
A professional ceramic coating service typically starts around the same price range but offers far more value. You’re not just paying for the coating—you’re investing in expertise, high-quality products, and a meticulous application process. A good installer also offers ongoing support for maintenance and a strong warranty.
Real-World Results
The durability and performance of a professionally applied ceramic coating are leagues ahead of most dealership options. A dealership coating might last a year at the absolute best, while a professional-grade coating can last several years with proper maintenance.
I had a customer whose family bought two of the same car. One opted for a dealership coating on their car and the other came to me for theirs. The difference was night and day. They couldn’t believe how much glossier and easier to maintain their professionally coated car was compared to the other. A year later and you can’t even tell the other one was coated.
When to Choose Professional Ceramic Coating
Here are a few questions to ask yourself when deciding:
- Do you want a coating tailored to your car’s needs and local environment?
- Are you looking for the best possible finish and protection?
- Do you want your investment to last for years instead of months?
If you answered yes to these questions, a professional ceramic coating is the way to go.
If you answered no to any of the above, then a dealership option may be for you.
Why Choose High Roller Detailing?
At High Roller Detailing, we specialise in delivering exceptional ceramic coating results. As a Fireball-certified master installer, we use only the best products and follow a meticulous process to ensure your car looks incredible and stays protected.
Plus, we provide aftercare support to help you maintain your coating and keep your car looking flawless.
Conclusion
When it comes to ceramic coating, the choice between dealership options and professional installation comes down to quality, expertise, and long-term value. While dealerships might offer convenience, a professional service delivers the results you want—protection, shine, and peace of mind.
Ready to give your car the care it deserves? Contact us at High Roller Detailing to learn more about our ceramic coating services. Your car will thank you!