Keep your clients’ cars protected: winter tips for ceramic coating and PPF
As temperatures drop and roads are covered in salt, snow, and grime, vehicle protection becomes more important than ever. For car owners who have invested in ceramic coating and paint protection film (PPF), the winter season can either showcase the true strength of these protective layers or shorten their lifespan if not maintained correctly.
Here’s a professional winter care guide you can share with your clients to help them preserve the shine, durability, and hydrophobic performance of their protected vehicles all season long.
Why ceramic coatings are a winter essential
Ceramic coatings create a durable, hydrophobic barrier that shields automotive paint from the harsh realities of winter driving. From corrosive road salt to frozen slush and grime, this invisible layer helps repel contaminants that would otherwise bond to the clear coat.
Key benefits during winter:
- Salt and grime resistance: Prevents corrosion caused by de-icing chemicals.
- Easy cleaning: Hydrophobic properties make it harder for snow and dirt to stick.
- UV and oxidation protection: Even in cold weather, UV rays can dull paint.
When properly maintained, a high-quality ceramic coating ensures that vehicles remain glossy and easier to clean, no matter how harsh the winter conditions get.
Safe washing techniques for ceramic-coated vehicles
Winter washing requires extra care to avoid micro-scratches and preserve the coating’s performance. Advise your clients to:
- Use a pH-neutral shampoo: Avoid harsh detergents that strip the hydrophobic layer.
- Follow the two-bucket method: One for soapy water, one for rinsing. This reduces the risk of swirl marks.
- Wash with warm water: If possible, this helps loosen salt and grime more effectively.
- Dry with a soft microfiber towel: Never allow water to air dry in freezing temperatures.
- Avoid automatic car washes: Brushes and strong chemicals can degrade the coating and cause micro-marring.
Encourage clients to wash their vehicles regularly during winter, even when it’s cold. The less time salt and grime sit on the surface, the better.
Reapplying ceramic toppers for extra protection
To maintain slickness and hydrophobicity, clients should apply a ceramic topper or SiO₂ spray sealant every few months, especially before and after winter.
These maintenance sprays refresh the coating’s self-cleaning properties and enhance water beading, providing that just-coated gloss. Professionals can offer this as part of a “Winter Protection Package” for returning clients.
How to keep PPF in perfect condition during winter
Paint Protection Film (PPF) is another winter warrior, acting as a physical barrier against rock chips, road debris, and chemical stains. However, even premium films require special care in cold weather.
Here’s how clients can keep their PPF looking flawless all winter:
- Inspect Edges and Seams Regularly
Cold weather can cause slight expansion and contraction of the film. Advise clients to check for lifting or peeling edges, especially around bumpers, mirrors, and wheel arches. Early maintenance prevents moisture or salt from seeping underneath.
- Be Gentle When Washing
When washing a PPF-protected car, avoid using high-pressure water directly on film edges. Instead, rinse at a moderate distance and use soft wash mitts to prevent lifting or tearing.
- Double Up with Ceramic Coating on PPF
For superior protection, many professionals now apply a ceramic coating on top of PPF. This combination adds chemical resistance, UV protection, and enhanced gloss. It also makes winter maintenance easier, as snow, salt, and mud rinse off effortlessly.
- Proper Storage for Seasonal or Luxury Vehicles
If a vehicle won’t be driven often during the winter, storage conditions are crucial. Recommend that clients:
- Store the vehicle in a dry, covered garage.
- Maintain stable humidity levels to avoid condensation.
- Avoid covering with cheap plastic tarps; use breathable car covers designed for coated or PPF cars.
Educate your clients about ceramic coating and PPF, and build trust
For detailers and car care professionals, educating clients about winter protection maintenance can build long-term loyalty and increase service bookings. Offering seasonal check-ups, ceramic topper reapplications, and PPF inspections not only protects clients’ vehicles but also reinforces your expertise as a trusted car care provider.
Encourage your clients to think of ceramic coatings and PPF not as “apply and forget” solutions, but as investments in long-term car preservation, especially during the harshest season of the year.
Join the Luminous network: partnership opportunities available
Car care professionals looking to expand their PPF offering, enhance their reputation, and secure a stronger position in the automotive care industry are invited to contact Luminous to learn more about these exciting partnership opportunities.
For more details on the partnership programs and how to become a partner, visit the Luminous website’s Luminous Car Care Installers Program and Luminous Car Care Dealers Program pages, or contact the Luminous team at info@luminous-me.com. Luminous car care products are available at Al-Rabiya Auto Accessories, our main car care products distributor in the MENA region.
Read more from Luminous about ceramic coating and PPF
The U.S. PPF Market: Key Trends, Regional Hotspots, and the Luminous Advantage
Luminous marks a decade of partnership with Al-Rabiya supporting Middle East car care pros.
Luminous launches new colored PPF line blending custom style with advanced protection
Paint Protection Film History: From Battlefields to Driveways
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