You are ready to invest in ceramic coating, but your detailer is recommending paint correction first. Is this an upsell, or is it genuinely necessary? The answer depends on your vehicle's current condition and your expectations for the final result.
Understanding the Relationship
Ceramic coating is not a miracle product that hides imperfections. It is a protective layer that bonds to whatever surface exists beneath it. If your paint has swirl marks, scratches, or oxidation, the coating will lock those imperfections in place and often make them more visible due to the enhanced gloss.
Think of it like applying a clear phone screen protector over a scratched screen. The protector does not hide the scratches. It seals them in and makes them more noticeable. Paint correction is like replacing the screen before applying the protector.
The Difference is Dramatic
Paint correction removes swirl marks, light scratches, and oxidation, creating a flawless surface for ceramic coating. The difference between corrected and uncorrected paint under coating is immediately visible.
When Paint Correction IS Necessary
- •Your paint shows visible swirl marks under direct light
- •The vehicle has been through automatic car washes
- •You want the absolute best appearance possible
- •The car is more than 1-2 years old
- •You are investing in a premium coating package
When You Might Skip Paint Correction
- •Brand new vehicle with no visible defects
- •Budget constraints require prioritizing protection over perfection
- •You are satisfied with the current paint appearance
- •The vehicle will be sold soon and you want basic protection
Our Recommendation
For most vehicles, we recommend at least a single-stage polish before ceramic coating. This removes light defects and ensures the coating bonds to a clean, smooth surface. For vehicles with significant swirl marks or scratches, multi-stage correction delivers dramatically better results.