Posted November 21, 2025

When someone purchases a new vehicle, the experience is a whirlwind—papers to sign, numbers flying across a desk, excitement building, and anticipation to drive home in that new car. Somewhere in that stack of paperwork, many buyers unknowingly agree to an add-on labeled something like:

• Premium Protection Package
  Diamond Ceramic Coating
  Appearance Protection System
  Nano/Glass/Quartz Coating
  Paint Sealant
  Five-Year Paint Protection

The names sound impressive—and that’s intentional.

These packages are often marketed as long-term professional ceramic coatings that will protect the paint for years. The price point may range anywhere from $1,000 to $3,500 depending on the dealership and brand.

But here’s where expectations and reality often drift apart.

What’s Actually Being Applied?

Many dealership “ceramic coatings” are not true ceramics at all—they’re often sealants or hybrid products designed for quick application, not long-term protection. Some last only a few months under normal use.

Even when a reputable brand is used, the installation process is rushed:

• Little to no paint preparation
  No paint correction to remove swirls, etching, or defects
  Minimal cure time
  High-volume, low-training labor

The product may be advertised as lasting years, but coatings rely heavily on proper prep and installation—not just the brand name printed on the bottle.

What We’re Seeing on Real Vehicles

Over the last year, multiple vehicles have come through the shop after:

• Accident bodywork
  Warranty claims
  Trade-in inspections
  Routine maintenance washes

Many of these vehicles were only one to two years old and had dealership-installed “ceramic coatings.”

Consistently, there were no hydrophobic properties left.

No water beading. No slickness. No noticeable protection.

In other words—the coating either failed prematurely or was never properly bonded to the surface.

Why This Happens

Real ceramic coatings require:

• Thorough decontamination (iron, clay, tar removal)
  Paint correction to level the surface
  Controlled temperature and humidity
  Proper flash and wipe technique
  Adequate curing time

Skipping or rushing any of these steps dramatically shortens the lifespan of the coating.

Dealership environments are focused on efficiency and delivery—not detailing craftsmanship. The priority is speed and margin, not long-term performance.

Is This a Scam?

Not necessarily—most dealerships aren’t intentionally misleading customers. These packages are structured businesses build into financing models. But the disconnect comes from:

• Lack of education about expectations
  Limited transparency about product performance
  No guidance on maintenance

Buyers often believe they are receiving a premium, long-lasting ceramic coating—when what was applied may behave more like a short-term sealant.

So What Should You Watch For?

If you were sold something labeled:

• Paint Protection
  5-Year Sealant
  Quartz / Nano / Glass / Diamond Coating
  Appearance Protection
  Protective Shield

…it’s worth learning what was actually applied and what care is required to maintain it.

What If You Already Purchased One?

If your coating is failing long before the promised lifespan, most of these products are marketed with warranties.

In many cases, you may be eligible to file a warranty claim.

A visual inspection—often paired with a hydrophobic test—can help determine whether the coating is performing as it should.

Final Thoughts

The purpose of this article isn’t to criticize dealerships—it’s to help car owners understand the difference between:

• A marketed protection package
  vs.
  A properly installed, long-term ceramic coating

Whether professionally installed, dealership installed, or DIY, the key variables remain the same:

✔ Proper surface preparation
✔ Quality product
✔ Correct installation technique
✔ Appropriate curing and maintenance

Education empowers owners to make informed decisions and maintain their vehicles confidently.