Debunking Common Myths and Misconceptions About Paint Protection

Learn the truth about auto paint protection from the experts

What you will gain from this article:

  • This article is for auto enthusiasts and car owners considering automotive paint protection for their vehicles.
  • We’re dispelling common myths about auto paint protection so you can make an informed decision about preserving your vehicle’s appearance and value.
  • Gain a clear understanding of the truth with these five common myths (and why they’re wrong).

Forget everything you thought you knew about auto paint protection. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, from how paint protection is applied to how long it lasts and what it actually does for your car.

The truth is, automotive paint protection is a necessary step in preserving your vehicle’s appearance and value. It provides a shield between your car’s paint and the elements, helping defend against damage.

But there’s more to it than this. Let’s debunk five common myths about auto paint protection.

Myth #1: Paint Protection is Only for New Cars

Adding paint protection before you drive your new car off the lot is a great idea! But it’s not just for new rides.

Over time, a car’s paint job can become dull and faded. Protecting your paint can prevent further deterioration from sun damage, hard water spots, acid rain, road salts, and more .

While ceramic coatings are clear and impossible to detect with the naked eye, your older car may get a much-needed facelift with a ceramic application. It rejuvenates the car’s appearance while preserving its value and fending off future wear and tear on the exterior.

Bonus points: Ceramic coating also works well for boats, planes, motorcycles, and other recreational vehicles!

Myth #2: Waxing is Sufficient for Paint Protection

When many people think of paint protection, wax is a top-of-mind choice. It’s been around for ages, and it does add some shine and safeguards your auto paint.

While waxing does provide some level of protection against environmental elements and minor damage, it is not enough to offer long-term or comprehensive paint protection.

Wax is organic and tends to wear off relatively quickly, especially in harsh weather conditions or high-traffic areas, leaving the paint vulnerable to damage. You’ll need to reapply it multiple times per year, and unless you’re having a professional apply it, you’ll need to use the right technique to avoid scratches or swirl marks.

Modern paint protection technology offers far more advanced solutions than traditional wax. Ceramic coatings, for instance, provide a durable and long-lasting shield against UV rays, bird droppings, bug debris, mineral deposits, acid rain, and other harmful factors that deteriorate the paint over time.

Myth #3: Paint Protection is Only for Exterior Aesthetics

While maintaining your car’s appearance is a key benefit of paint protection, it’s not just about looks—it’s also about function.

Your car is exposed to a variety of harmful elements every time you drive it, including bird droppings, UV rays, road salts, smog, and tree sap, among others. Over time, this exposure can eat into your paint, dull its shine, fade its color, and even cause small imperfections.

Cilajet defends against oxidation, rust, and hard water deposits, along with other environmental factors that can damage the car’s frame and function.

By creating a shield on the vehicle’s surface, ceramic paint protection helps make your car easier to clean and maintain. It prevents dirt and grime from settling into small cracks or pores in the paint and clear coat so it washes away cleanly. It reduces the need for constant waxing and polishing while retaining that sleek, just-washed look for longer. Plus, ceramic coatings have hydrophobic properties that repel water and make washing your car a breeze.

Myth #4: Ceramic Paint Protection Alters the Vehicle’s Appearance

Some types of paint protection will make your vehicle appear dull or muted. Or, in the case of paint protection films, small defects in the application process could lead to bubbles, tears, or wrinkles, making your paint protection look obvious.

To avoid any noticeable changes, ceramic coating provides the best option. The coating is clear and acts like a tailored suit of armor for your car. It’s applied in an even layer and cures to form a hard shell that adheres to your paint.

Ceramic coating preserves the natural color of the vehicle while enhancing long-lasting shine and gloss. This means your car will retain its original aesthetic appeal while benefiting from increased durability and longevity.

Myth #5: Paint Protection is Too Expensive

Paint protection for your car may be viewed as an unnecessary expense, but in reality, it can save you money in the long run. By investing in paint protection, you’re not only keeping your car looking like new, but you’re also increasing its long-term value.

When it’s time to sell or trade in your vehicle, your car will look shinier and newer than comparable cars without paint protection, which gives the appearance it’s been well taken care of. This is a great way to command a higher price and attract more potential buyers.

Paint protection doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Just one application can last for years, unlike waxes or polishes, which have to be applied frequently.

Choosing the Best Auto Paint Protection

Auto paint protection isn’t complicated (like the above myths might have you believe). It can be one of the best investments you make for your vehicle, ensuring it maintains its shiny new appearance for years.

Ceramic coatings like Cilajet give you superior protection that lasts. With trained technicians to do the heavy lifting, you can have peace of mind that your protection has been applied correctly and enjoy the benefits every time you get behind the wheel. Learn more about Cilajet and find a dealer near you!