My car isn’t brand new any more, is it too late to get it ceramic coated or to protect it with Paint Protection film?

The short answer is no, clear coats don't last forever, but they are resilient. Most of the time, you can restore older clear coats to a like-new or even better condition. While this process requires hours of labor, it can be achieved through a procedure known as paint correction.

Paint Correction: Paint correction is an essential auto detailing process that addresses issues like hazing, minor scratches, marring, swirl marks, and other imperfections on your vehicle's clear coat. Specialized machines and polishing compounds are used to gently eliminate microscopic layers of clear coat until the surface becomes smooth again.

The duration of the paint correction process can vary significantly, ranging from 2 to 20 hours or even longer. Several factors influence the time it takes:

1. Size of the Vehicle: Larger vehicles naturally require more time to correct the paint.

2. Color of the Vehicle: The color can play a role as well. Some colors, like black, tend to accentuate blemishes, while lighter colors may not reveal them as easily, especially under certain lighting conditions. You may save time and money by requesting corrections for imperfections only visible in specific lighting conditions.

3. Age of the Vehicle: The older your vehicle, the more time-consuming the correction process can be. Factors such as multiple washes, prolonged sun exposure, and frequent car washes over the years can add to the correction time.

4. Condition of the Vehicle: Neglecting to protect your vehicle, like leaving bird droppings on the paint for extended periods, can significantly increase the labor involved in paint correction.

5. Clear Coat Hardness: Clear coats vary in hardness, with some being softer and others harder. Nevertheless, all clear coats are correctable. Older vehicles with single-stage paint from the '90s might have oxidation and fading issues that can be challenging to repair. Even if they are repairable, the shine may not last long without applying a ceramic coating for UV protection.

6. Shape of the Vehicle: This doesn't refer to the vehicle's condition but rather its physical shape. Some vehicles have intricate curves and crevices that are difficult to reach and correct. For instance, a Jeep Grand Cherokee will generally require less time for correction than a Chevy Corvette due to the Corvette's challenging-to-reach areas.

After correcting the paint, it's crucial not to skip the next step: applying paint protection film or a ceramic coating. Neglecting this is akin to raking leaves before a hurricane but not clearing them away.

In the case of major chips and scratches, it's advisable to consult with professionals like us before deciding to have any repainting done. They can assess the damage and suggest the best course of action to maintain your vehicle's appearance.