PPF vs Ceramic Coating: Which Is Right for Your Car?

When it comes to keeping your car and paint in pristine condition, you have a few options. Click here to learn the main differences between PPF vs ceramic coating

The auto sales industry took a hard hit during the pandemic. Luckily, those numbers are starting to return to normal, with nearly 15 million vehicles sold in 2021. 

If you have purchased a new car, you want to ensure your vehicle's paint remains in that fresh-out-of-the-factory look. During your quest, you have likely come across the PPF vs ceramic coating debate.

Before you go any further, we have the ultimate guide for you. Keep reading and learn more about the differences and similarities between PPF and ceramic coating and how you can choose one that is right for your vehicle!

What Is Paint Protection Film?

Paint protection film (PPF), or clear bra, is a transparent polyurethane film that molds over the exterior portion of your car. It can be used in isolated areas, such as:

• Front bumper
• Hood
• Headlights
• Door edges
• Sideview mirrors
• Rocker panels

Or, you can opt for full-body coverage. Why would you want to have a professional team install a PPF? 

Ultimately, it comes down to paint and exterior protection. There are several day-to-day chemicals and elements that wreak havoc on your car's paint. Some of these include:

• Rocks
• Sticks
• Leaves
• Bird droppings
• UV rays
• Gravel

Any one of these can cause scratches, erosion, or other forms of paint damage. Many people assume that leaving bird droppings or leaves on their car won't ruin your paint. 

For example, wet leaves usually contain sap. When left on your vehicle for too long, it leaks this acid onto your paint and erodes the finish. Bird droppings and UV rays work similarly.

What Is a Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coating is often mistaken for a PPF, but they are entirely different products. Ceramic coating is a second layer comprised of quartz and titanium dioxide, which hardens or crystallizes into a clear, hard coating over your vehicle. 

It is a liquid polymer and can be applied on:

• Wheels
• Trims
• Tires
• Entire paint body

Many people think of ceramic coating as a wax job, but it lasts far longer and is more durable than simple waxing. Ceramic coating lasts between 18 and 25 months and provides better resistance against:

• Wash induced marring
• UV rays
• Extreme temperatures
• Bird droppings
• Water spots
• Oil
• Dirt

Lastly, it provides your vehicle with a glossy finish, giving it that "new car look" every time you take it out on the road. 

PPF vs Ceramic Coating Similarities

When debating between PPF or ceramic coating, it helps to look at what you want from vehicle protection. First, let's look at how they are similar. These external applicators have one goal in mind: vehicle paint protection.

Other benefits you will find in ceramic coating or PPF are:

• Fewer paint job repairs
• Protection against UV rays
• Protection against road debris

Low-end paint jobs start around $5,000. For a professional and high-quality paint job, you can expect anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 or more. 

Opting for ceramic coating or PPF could save you long-term repainting costs. However, most dealerships won't use PPF or ceramic coatings on vehicles with previous paint damage. 

It is not meant to fix paint jobs. Rather, it enhances and protects your vehicle's paint.

Ceramic Coat vs PPF Differences

For starters, a ceramic coat uses different chemicals and products than PPF. It hardens and glosses car finishes while PPF adheres to your vehicle but won't accentuate colors and finishes nearly as much. 

Here are some other key differences when debating paint protection film vs ceramic coating:

• PPF uses self-healing properties
• PPF is easy to replace
• PPF lasts for years
• Ceramic coating is hydrophobic

Ceramic coating will give your car a glossier finish than PPF and reduces the amount of cleaning required. PPF has similar benefits, but they aren't quite on the same level. 

The biggest differential is that PPF has self-healing properties while ceramic coating does not. How does this work?

Polyurethane materials have high elasticity and re-mold after damages occur. If you experience a scratch, your PPF absorbs the impact. When exposed to heat, it begins to reshape, making the initial damage unnoticeable. 

As you can imagine, this primarily works on minor scratches and won't protect your vehicle from accidents. 

The ceramic coating does not have this property, although it does an excellent job reducing the amount of wear and tear on your vehicle from UV rays and chemicals. Its other primary sticking point is its hydrophobic properties. 

You will avoid hard water stains and spots with this finish and significantly reduce how much time you spend cleaning the exterior. 

Ultimate Showdown: PPF or Ceramic Coating?

The good news is, you don't have to decide between them! If you want the benefits of both, a qualified mechanic shop can install a paint protection film before applying a ceramic coating. 

You get the benefit of both high-end products without having to make a difficult decision. In the end, you should always install a PPF first and talk to the experts about any paint damages you might have prior to installation. 

And before you go searching the internet for how feasible this is as a DIY project, you will likely save money but risk improper installation and low-quality products. 

It is best to leave this one to the professionals. 

Start Driving in Style

The debate between PPF vs ceramic coating is challenging since both products exhibit quality and long-lasting results. If you want the shine and luxury of a new car look, a ceramic coating might be your best bet. 

Suppose you need ultimate protection against the harsh elements on the road, the self-healing properties of PPF edge it out. However, when you want both luxury and protection, ask about installing both!



To help you out with all your vehicle protection needs, Solar Shade Window Tint has you covered. Contact us today for more specific pricing!