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Ceramic Coating cost guide

How much does ceramic coating cost?

A ceramic coating is a hard, glossy layer that bonds to your paint. It makes washing easier and helps the finish resist water spots and fading. Most of what you pay for is the prep: a careful wash, decontamination and polishing so the coating goes on clean paint. The prices below are for a 2 to 3 year coating on paint in good shape.

Typical price
$480 – $915
Most people pay around $700. About 7 hours of work.
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🛠 Rather do it yourself?Skip the labor bill. Here's the gear for the job:
Ceramic spray coatingClay bar kitIron remover spray
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Microfiber towel resting on glossy car paint

Ceramic coating prices at a glance

JobNewer proExperienced pro
1-year spray sealant, sedan, for comparison$160$325
2 to 3 year coating, sedan$480$915
2 to 3 year coating, SUV$575$1090

Labor and basic supplies. Big parts or appliances you buy yourself are extra. Prices run higher in big cities.

🛠 Do it yourself

Do it yourself or hire a pro?

Consumer ceramic coatings and spray sealants are easy to find and can work well. The hard part is the prep. Coating over swirls locks them in, and high spots that are not wiped off in time can leave dark smudges. If your paint is in good shape and you have a garage, a DIY coating is a reasonable project.

Ceramic spray coatingThe easiest way to add gloss and water beading after a wash.See options on Amazon →Clay bar kitPulls bonded grime off the paint so a coating sticks better.See options on Amazon →Iron remover sprayDissolves brake dust and rail dust before you polish or coat.See options on Amazon →Dual-action polisherRemoves light swirls safely. Practice on a spare panel first.See options on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, RuffQuote earns from qualifying purchases. It doesn't change your price.

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What's usually included

  • Hand wash with a pH-neutral soap
  • Iron remover and clay bar to pull bonded grime off the paint
  • One-step machine polish to boost gloss and remove light marks
  • Panel wipe to remove polishing oils
  • Coating applied panel by panel and left to cure indoors

What changes the price

  • Coating level. Longer-rated coatings cost more and often need more layers.
  • Paint condition. Swirls and scratches need more polishing before coating.
  • Vehicle size. SUVs and trucks have more paint to prep and coat.
  • Add-ons. Wheels, glass, trim and interior coatings are usually extra.

Common questions

How long does a ceramic coating last?

It depends on the product, how many layers go on and how you wash the car. Hand washing and avoiding harsh brushes help it last.

Do I still need to wash my car?

Yes. A coating makes washing easier and dirt slides off faster, but it does not make the car self-cleaning.

Does a coating protect against rock chips?

Not really. A coating is very thin. Paint protection film is the product made to stop rock chips.

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