Should a Newly Purchased Car Undergo Crystal Coating?
2 Answers
It is advisable to apply crystal coating to a newly purchased car if conditions permit. Below is relevant information regarding crystal coating for new cars: 1. Benefits of Crystal Coating for New Cars: Scratch Resistance: The diamond crystal hardness is very high, capable of preventing most minor scratches and possessing elastic recovery properties. Corrosion Resistance: The ultra-fine nano-crystal layer of diamond crystal isolates the paint surface from the external environment, effectively preventing oxidation and resisting acid rain corrosion. No Cracking: Diamond crystal resists UV rays, withstands extreme temperatures, and has strong temperature adaptability, preventing cracking or peeling. Easy Cleaning: The robust fiber network of diamond crystal fills the tiny pores on the car's surface, achieving a mirror-like effect that makes cleaning and maintenance easier. 2. Drawbacks of Crystal Coating for New Cars: High Cost: The average market price is around 2000 RMB. Complex and Demanding Application: Requires higher technical skills from the applicators and must be performed in a dust-free environment. Time-Consuming: Typically takes 2 days to complete. Faster Paint Aging After Discontinuing Coating: Stopping crystal coating results in a lack of brightness and membrane support, causing the car's paint to oxidize faster and lose much of its shine.
When I first got my car, I also struggled with the decision of ceramic coating. Honestly, whether it's worth the money depends largely on your driving environment. For lazy people like me, ceramic coating is highly recommended because it makes the car paint super easy to maintain. After rain, you don't even need to wash the car specifically—water beads just roll off on their own. While PPF (paint protection film) costs at least 20,000 to 30,000 RMB, ceramic coating can be done for just a few thousand. The application process takes about five to six hours, so it's important to find a reliable detailing shop. Remember, the best time to apply ceramic coating is within the first three months of getting your new car, as the paint doesn't require polishing, and the protective layer can adhere directly to the paint. However, ceramic coating lasts only about one to two years, not as long as PPF, but it's far superior to regular waxing, especially in protecting against contaminants like tree sap and bird droppings.