What’s Included in a Ceramic Coating Package? A Breakdown

Every Scottsdale car owner knows the struggle of maintaining a pristine vehicle appearance in our challenging Arizona climate. The relentless sun, dust storms, and occasional monsoon rains take their toll on even the most meticulously maintained vehicles. That's why ceramic coating has become such a popular paint protection solution for those who want lasting gloss and hydrophobic properties that stand up to our desert environment.

At Pit Stop Auto Detailing & Vehicle Storage, we've specialized in providing comprehensive ceramic coating packages tailored to the specific needs of Scottsdale drivers since 2007. Understanding exactly what's included in these packages helps you get optimal value and protection for your investment.

The Core of a Ceramic Coating Package: Unveiling the Essentials

Meticulous Surface Preparation: The Foundation of a Flawless Finish

Ceramic coatings enhance and seal your existing paint—they don't hide imperfections. That's why thorough surface preparation is a critical first step in all our ceramic coating packages. Think of it as preparing a wall before applying a clear finish: the final result will only be as good as the surface beneath.

Our surface preparation process is comprehensive and meticulous. We start with a thorough surface decontamination wash to remove embedded contaminants from your paint. Next, we apply chemical decontaminants to eliminate bonded particles like tar and tree sap that washing alone can't remove. We follow this with a clay bar treatment to remove any remaining microscopic contaminants. Finally, we perform a detailed cleaning to achieve a perfectly clean surface that's ready for coating application.

This preparation is non-negotiable for a quality ceramic coating job. A properly prepared surface ensures maximum bonding and longevity of the ceramic coating, giving you the best possible results.

The Application of High-Quality Ceramic Coating: Bonding for Lasting Protection

The ceramic coating itself is a liquid polymer containing nanoparticles that chemically bond to your vehicle's paint. These particles create an incredibly strong, protective layer that becomes one with your paint rather than sitting on top like wax.

Our certified ceramic coating specialists apply the product by hand using specialized applicators and microfiber towels. This meticulous process ensures even coverage and optimal bonding. After application, we carefully wipe the surface and allow proper curing time—a step that can't be rushed.



At Pit Stop Auto Detailing & Vehicle Storage, we exclusively use Gtechniq ceramic coatings, ranging from EXOv5 with up to 24 months of protection to Crystal Serum Ultra and our Platinum Edition, both offering up to 9 years of guaranteed protection.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Services in Premium Packages

Surface Preparation for Enhanced Adhesion

For maximum coating adhesion and longevity, our premium packages include additional surface preparation steps. We use specialized products to remove any oils or residues that might prevent perfect bonding between the coating and your paint. This critical step ensures you get the full durability promised by our ceramic coatings.

Wheel and Trim Coating: Comprehensive Protection

Your vehicle's appearance isn't just about the paint. That's why our higher-tier packages include ceramic coating for wheels and exterior trim. Wheels benefit enormously from ceramic coating, as the hydrophobic surface makes brake dust easier to clean and prevents it from etching into your wheel finish. For trim pieces, coating prevents the fading and chalking that's so common in Scottsdale's intense UV exposure.

Interior Protection Options

While our standard packages focus on exterior protection, we also offer interior ceramic coating as an add-on service. These specialized formulations protect your dashboard, door panels, and other interior surfaces from UV damage and staining. Ask about our New Car Protection service that includes interior protection options.

Paint Protection Film (PPF) Integration

For ultimate protection, many of our clients combine ceramic coating with Paint Protection Film. PPF provides physical protection against rock chips and road debris, while ceramic coating applied over the film enhances its appearance and makes it easier to maintain. Our team can help you decide if this combination makes sense for your vehicle and driving habits.

Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance: Preserving Your Ceramic Coating's Longevity

Initial Curing Period: What to Expect

After application, your ceramic coating needs time to fully cure and harden. Depending on the specific Gtechniq product applied, this curing period typically lasts 24-72 hours. During this time, you should avoid washing your vehicle completely. It's best to keep it dry if possible, with garage parking being ideal for protection. You'll also want to avoid any exposure to harsh chemicals or contaminants that might interfere with the curing process. We provide detailed care instructions and include a follow-up inspection wash two weeks after application with all our coating packages.

Ongoing Maintenance: Easy Cleaning, Not No Cleaning

One of the biggest misconceptions about ceramic coatings is that they eliminate the need for washing. While they make cleaning easier thanks to their hydrophobic properties, regular maintenance is still essential to preserve their performance and appearance.

We recommend regular gentle washing using pH-neutral car shampoo to maintain your coating's performance. The two-bucket wash method is ideal to prevent introducing swirl marks during cleaning. We strongly advise avoiding automatic car washes with abrasive brushes that can damage the coating. For best results, schedule periodic professional maintenance washes with our team, who understand how to properly care for ceramic-coated vehicles.

Many of our clients join our Wash Club after coating installation, ensuring their investment stays in peak condition with professional care.