New to Detailing Product Guide – Ceramic Coating Edition

by Ian Martinez

So you’ve mastered the Standard Detail services; wash, clay, protection, etc. You are proficient in paint correction and want to start performing ceramic coating. But where do you start? There is a lot of confusion in the industry so use this handy guide to help you choose the best products and tools to get you on the right track. Please note, the coating choices are my personal preference, there are a ton of others out there but these are my favorite retail options available at this time.

Chemicals

Inspection Spray CarPro Eraser Intensive Oil and Polish Cleaner This is used right before applying the coating to remove any excess polishing oils so you will get a good bond to the paint.
Paint Coating Gtechniq CSL Black: Gtechniq CSL and Gtechniq EXO This is a two part coating that last up to 5 years. Super easy to use, easy to remove, insane gloss and slickness.
Wheel Coating CarPro Hydr02, Gtechniq C5 Hydr02 is by far the easiest and works really well, but only lasts a few months. C5 is a great wheel coating and lasts much longer. If you are doing a full car in CSL Black you can also just use that on the wheels as well.
Trim Coating Gtechniq C4 Easy to use, easy to remove from paint/windows if necessary and provides a really deep rich black color.

Tools

Applicator Gtechniq AP1 I like the form factor of this better than the suede applicators, easy to hold in my opinion.
Coating Removal Microfiber The Rag Company Edgeless Pearl Coating Towel Low nap, low cost, just enough bite to remove without smearing all over the place. Color code options available.
Inspection Light Scangrip Sunmatch 3 The handheld form factor is perfect for looking at all the panels in multiple angles to ensure no high spots. Also has multiple color temperate mode to work best for any color paint.
Gloves DI Nitrile Gloves Always need gloves, keeps your hands clean and keeps the finish from getting fingerprints or any oil from you hands.

Ceramic coatings may seem daunting but if you follow procedure and use the proper tools it’s actually pretty easy. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer procedure because if you do it wrong you may have to polish the coating off, and that’s no fun.