What are the advantages and disadvantages of crystal coating?
2 Answers
The advantages of crystal coating include scratch resistance, corrosion resistance, no cracking, and enhanced brightness; the disadvantages are complex application process and faster paint aging after stopping the coating. Scratch resistance: The diamond crystal has high hardness, which can prevent most minor scratches and has its own elastic recovery ability. Corrosion resistance: The ultra-fine nano-crystal layer of the diamond crystal isolates the paint surface from the external environment, effectively preventing oxidation and resisting acid rain corrosion. No cracking: The diamond crystal is resistant to UV rays, extreme temperatures, and has strong temperature adaptability, preventing cracking and peeling. Its powerful fiber network fills the tiny pores on the car's surface, achieving a mirror-like effect and making it easier to clean and maintain. Enhanced brightness: The diamond crystal has a crystal structure similar to that of a diamond, increasing light refraction and making the car's surface brighter, with a crystal-clear paint finish. Complex application process: It requires higher technical skills from the applicators and must be performed in a dust-free environment. Faster paint aging after stopping the coating: If the car stops receiving crystal coating, the lack of brightness and protective film support will cause the paint to oxidize faster, and the brightness will also decrease significantly.
Last year, I had my beloved car coated with ceramic coating, and the results were stunning: the paint was so shiny it reflected light, water droplets rolled right off in the rain without sticking, and dust didn’t cling, making washing much easier. It also provided some protection against minor scratches and UV aging. However, there were downsides: it cost several thousand yuan to have it professionally applied, and DIY attempts were too risky. After a year, the shine diminished, requiring a reapplication, which felt like a waste of money. Compared to waxing, it saved effort but was more expensive. I’d recommend it only if you have the budget and truly love your car; otherwise, regular waxing is sufficient. Environmentally, some ceramic coatings contain chemicals, so opting for eco-friendly products is better. If you decide to go for it, choose a reputable shop for application and maintain it by washing with a soft sponge to avoid damaging the paint.
