If you're in the process of purchasing a new car from a dealership, chances are you've been presented with a paint protection package as an add-on. As experts in independent paint protection, we often get inquiries about the value of dealership paint protection and how it compares to professional ceramic coating services.
In response to the specific question of whether dealership-applied coatings are worth your money, the short answer is no. However, professionally applied ceramic coatings can offer significant benefits and are worth considering for your vehicle's paint.
To fully understand this distinction, let's break down the factors that make a difference:
- Quality of Product:
Dealership-applied paint protection often falls short due to a combination of factors, including improper preparation, unfavorable working conditions, subpar product quality, and even uncertainty about whether the product is applied at all. In contrast, professional ceramic coatings are applied meticulously, ensuring that the paint is prepared correctly and that the product is of high quality.
- Proper Preparation:
Dealership paint protection tends to overlook essential aspects of paint preparation. It's critical to start with a clean surface, free from contaminants. New cars may have been exposed to various elements during delivery, such as traffic film, industrial fallout, and improper washing methods. Proper paint preparation includes the removal of bonded contaminants, such as industrial fallout and over-spray, ensuring a clean surface before applying protection.
- Imperfection Removal:
Professionals understand the importance of removing imperfections from the paint surface. Dealership paint protection systems often neglect this crucial step, resulting in swirl marks, marring, and even scratches from the first wash. A professional assessment, usually conducted under intense lighting, helps identify and address any defects before applying protection.
- Working Environment:
Dealership environments may lack the necessary lighting to identify fine defects in the paint. Professionals use specialized lighting, including a mix of different colors and brightness levels, to spot and correct imperfections. This meticulous approach ensures your car receives proper protection.
- Product Quality:
Dealership coatings tend to be basic and offer minimal abrasive or chemical resistance. In contrast, professional ceramic coatings provide superior protection against abrasion, swirls, and light scratching. These coatings create a physical barrier that shields the paint, enhancing its longevity and shine.
- Time and Attention:
Dealerships often prioritize speed over quality. New car details at dealerships may take significantly less time, with one individual working on multiple cars simultaneously. In contrast, professional detailing services dedicate the necessary time (typically 24 to 72 hours) for thorough preparation, polishing, and curing of coatings.
In conclusion, dealership-applied paint protection packages often fall short due to inadequate preparation, product quality, and working conditions. Choosing professional ceramic coatings, on the other hand, ensures meticulous attention to detail, high-quality products, and a comprehensive approach to protecting your vehicle's paint. While dealership offerings may seem convenient, investing in professional paint protection guarantees the long-lasting beauty and resilience of your vehicle's finish. So, before you heed the advice of a salesperson who may not fully understand the nuances of paint protection, consider the benefits of professional care for your new car.