Does a new car need coating?
4 Answers
In principle, most car models do not require separate glass film. Generally speaking, vehicles priced above 100,000 RMB come with glass that already provides some level of heat insulation and UV protection, although the effect may not be very noticeable. Some higher-end models even feature built-in heat-insulating glass. The question of whether to coat a new car is quite a dilemma—if you skip it, the car's paint is often soft, and within days, it might be covered in scratches. For most products, don’t blindly follow the sales pitches from shops. Check whether the merchant has authorized certification for the product, and if still unsure, inspect the product before proceeding. It’s worth finding a truly trustworthy professional detailing shop. Coating is more expensive than waxing or glazing, mainly for two reasons: first, the products are different, and second, the protection for the car’s paint lasts longer. In practice, how long these products can actually last is still uncertain—currently, there are only experimental data, no real-world data.
When I first got my new car, I also struggled with this decision. To be honest, ceramic coating is totally worth it for a new car, especially when the factory paint is at its most delicate. This transparent protective layer can prevent acid rain corrosion, protect against scratches from tree branches, and even block over 80% of UV rays. Once I parked under a tree for two weeks - bird droppings crusted on the coating but wiped clean with a damp cloth, leaving zero marks on the paint. Maintenance is simple too; just use some coating booster when washing, no need for monthly waxing like traditional methods. Just make sure to choose a professional shop that uses infrared curing lamps properly - watch them complete the full curing process.
It's advisable for new car owners to include ceramic coating in their vehicle purchase budget. The best time to apply it is when the car's paint is still fresh and unoxidized. This inorganic crystalline layer can last for two to three years. Pay special attention to protecting areas like the hood and roof that are exposed to intense sunlight. Tree sap and insect remains can leave marks if not cleaned off promptly, but with ceramic coating, you'll have much less to worry about. The last time I washed my car, I noticed a vehicle in the next lane with ceramic coating displaying a beading effect under strong light—contaminants automatically forming water droplets and rolling off was particularly fascinating. A quick reminder: avoid taking the car on the highway immediately after coating; wait until the layer has fully cured.
Coating is like applying a tempered glass screen protector to your phone—the newer the original paint, the better the application effect. After two coatings, I found it really saves effort; mud spots from high-speed driving in the rainy season can be easily washed off with a water gun, and regular car shampoo restores the shine. The downside is that the entire car needs polishing during application, and some shops over-polish, thinning the clear coat and damaging the car. Prices range from thousands to tens of thousands, and I recommend opting for mid-range crystal coatings. Remember to avoid abrasive car shampoos, as they can damage the coating layer.
