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Best Ceramic Coatings For 2022

Contributor
Updated: Dec 2, 2021
Forbes Wheels independently tests and reviews cars and automotive accessories. We may earn an affiliate commission from links on our site. The analysis and opinions are our own.

For vehicle owners who are seeking the best possible shine and protection for their car, SUV, truck or motorcycle’s paint without the hassle of maintaining and regularly re-applying wax, ceramic coating

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Why We Picked It

Adam’s UV Ceramic coating is rated at 9H on the Moh scale of mineral hardness. The scale range rates from 1-10, making the 9H rating extremely durable in even the harshest conditions. Normal clear coat typically rates between 2H and 4H. As an added bonus, the infused patent-pending Ceramic Glow Technology works as an application aide and allows you to see where the coating has been applied.

A little goes a long way–the included 50ml bottle will coat two full-size vehicles, or you can layer two coats on one car for an even more intense shine. A 4oz bottle of surface prep is included along with ceramic boost spray for maintenance. High-quality micro silk applicators, plush towels and a pair of gloves will help you be the master of your detailing craft.


Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It

Chemical Guys’ HydroSlick HyperWax utilizes the latest Silicon dioxide (SiO2) gel technology, also known as Liquid Glass, to offer advanced water repelling properties. It is color safe while keeping your paint protected from oil, solvents, environmental elements and minor abrasions, and can be used on multiple surfaces including glass and plastic trim. Much like wax, it fills in microscopic surface imperfections to create a smooth surface. Depending on driving conditions, one application can last up to one year with regular maintenance, a shorter lifespan than other non-hybrid ceramic products. 


Pros & Cons
Quickest Application
Why We Picked It

With Nasiol ZR53 ceramic coating, there’s no need to take extra time to apply multiple layers. Just one coat can last up to three years with regular washing. Unlike other competitors, ZR53 has a two-layer coating system that features a softer bottom layer under the hard top layer to ensure maximum resistance and elasticity.  

The product begins to harden as quick as 20-seconds after coating which allows for quick application time but also poses a challenge. If you do not work in small sections and buff the treated area quickly, you may have to polish it out and re-apply.


Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It

The Last Coat Black Ice ceramic coating is an easily applied streak-free spray that can be used on painted surfaces, glass, chrome, fiberglass, gelcoat and vinyl. Just 1 oz. of Black Ice will coat an average-sized vehicle with an insane glossy finish that supports a hydrophobic tight water beading pattern. It is best applied with the included applicator and buffed out with the microfiber towel, also included. 

The cure time is 7 days whereas most competitor products cure within 24 hours, however driving in normal conditions after 24 hours is acceptable.


Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It

The CarPro CQuartz 3.0 50ml kit is prime for building up layers for that deep wet look gloss effect, but still performs well and lasts several years with just one coat. Containing up to 70% quartz, the CQuartz coating protects and seals paint from damage and impurities, making it more resistant to bird droppings, wash-induced marring, stains and traffic pollutants. Each kit contains a 50ml bottle of CQuartz coating, a CarPro foam applicator and four suede microfiber cloths. 


Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It

The folks at Torque Detail combined over 20-years of experience in automotive detailing and chemistry to formulate a Ceramic Shine spray that achieves professional results faster than a standard ceramic coating. Their Ceramic Shine spray does exactly that, without the hassle of long cure times and difficult application. Application is as simple as spraying the product on a microfiber sponge and buffing the paint to a shine. It also reportedly wipes off easier than competing ceramic spray products. 

This heavy-duty coating is formulated using Ceramic Coating Nanotechnology similar to the thicker professional 9H Ceramic Coatings. It repels water, dirt, bird droppings and other contaminants and protects paint from sun exposure. Customers report a tendency for this coating to leave streaks behind, but prep work and application environment could be a factor. The most recent complaint is a lack of spray nozzle quality, and a handful of customers report the nozzle having arrived broken. It may be beneficial to have a secondary sprayer handy until the packaging is improved. Unsatisfied buyers have 60 days to contact Torque Detail for a refund. 


Pros & Cons
Best Value Ceramic Coating Kit
Why We Picked It

The PROJE’ Ceramic Complete Care Kit bundles the company’s ceramic coating product with a prep spray to remove old wax and grime and a quick coat waterless wash spray for a boost in shine and protection between treatments.

PROJE’s Nano SiO2 ceramic coating levels out minor scratches and creates a glass-like shield over your vehicle’s paint to protect it from UV rays, weather and contaminants. The included silicon dioxide spray keeps the coating looking fresh with a quick wipe. This ceramic coating can be used on exterior glass, windshield and headlights. The company claims that one treatment can last up to 6-12 months, however several reviews state otherwise, particularly in sunnier states. Using a clay bar to prep the surface before coating will ensure the ceramic coating bonds to the paint. This coating is also wax-safe, and adding an additional quick spray wax coating will lengthen the treatment’s lifespan. 


Pros & Cons


Bestseller No. 1
Nu-Finish NF-76 Liquid Car Polish
  • Nu Finish Liquid Car Polish keeps your car exterior looking new with only one application per year
  • Delivers impressive shine and protection without rubbing or buffing
  • As the only polish available with no wax, the Nu Finish formula is specifically made to protect your car’s paint and clear-coat finish
SaleBestseller No. 2
Meguiar's Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Paste Wax – Creates a Deep Dazzling Shine – G7014J, 11 oz
3,587 Reviews
Meguiar's Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Paste Wax – Creates a Deep Dazzling Shine – G7014J, 11 oz
  • PASTE WAX FOR HIGH SHINE: Luxurious blend of carnauba wax and polymers creates strong, long-lasting protection to preserve your finish with a brilliant reflective shine
  • CLEAR COAT SAFE: Special blend of carnauba and protecting polymers is safe and effective on clear coats and all glossy paint types
  • BETTER GLOW: Improved formula creates an even more brilliant shine and deeper reflections
Bestseller No. 3
Turtle Wax T-223 Super Hard Shell Paste Wax - 9.5 oz (Pack of 1)
  • Legendary Super Hard Shell protection and shine
  • The leading car wax in the world
  • Easy on, easy off formula lasts up to 12 months
Bestseller No. 4
Meguiar's G19220 Ultimate Polish, 1 pt .4 fl. oz.
  • PREPS SURFACE: Pre-waxing glaze that prepares the surface for wax while offering deep reflections and high gloss
  • BEST CAR GLOSS: Conditioning oils add depth of color and maximum gloss prior to waxing, especially on dark colored cars
  • REMOVE SWIRLS: Quickly and gently removes fine swirls and towel marks for mirror-like reflections
Bestseller No. 5
Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax Liquid Cream Car Wax (Safe for all Finishes Including Ceramic Coatings), 16 oz., Banana Scent
10,818 Reviews
Chemical Guys WAC_201_16 Butter Wet Wax Liquid Cream Car Wax (Safe for all Finishes Including Ceramic Coatings), 16 oz., Banana Scent
  • HIGH SHINE FORMULA – Formulated from a blend of natural Carnauba, polymers and resins, Butter Wet Wax delivers an unmatched surface shine and deep wet finish.
  • SAFE FOR ALL FINISHES – Butter Wet Wax can be applied to your car, boat, motorcycle, SUV, truck or RV’s paint, glass, and metal surfaces to clean, shine and protect. You can even use Butter Wet Wax on top of your ceramic coating for an extra layer of shine and protection. Not recommended for matte finishes.
  • JUST LIKE WE NEED SUN SCREEN, YOUR CAR NEEDS PROTECTION TOO – The sun is one of the most harmful enemies of your vehicle’s finish. Butter Wet Wax helps fight UVA and UVB rays to help extend the life of your paintwork.
Bestseller No. 6
3D Speed Car Polish & Wax – 16oz – All-in-One Scratch Remover & Swirl Correction with Wax Protection
2,804 Reviews
3D Speed Car Polish & Wax – 16oz – All-in-One Scratch Remover & Swirl Correction with Wax Protection
  • CORRECT & PROTECT … 3D Speed is a premium all in one clear coat car polish & wax all in one bottle!
  • BRING YOUR PAINT BACK TO LIFE … 3D Speed is an excellent scratch and swirl remover polish and sealant that deliver minor paint correction for small or large surface areas!
  • DEPTH AND GLOSS IN ONE … Restore your paint's color, depth and gloss while also adding a long lasting wax layer protection to the surface!
Bestseller No. 7
Meguiar’s A1216 Cleaner Wax, 16 Fluid Ounces
2,319 Reviews
Meguiar’s A1216 Cleaner Wax, 16 Fluid Ounces
  • CLEANER WAX: One-step liquid wax cleans your paint while you wax
  • HIGH GLOSS SHINE: Rich conditioning oils polish and protect, leaving finish with a high gloss shine
  • SAFE ON ALL GLOSSY FINISHES: Safely and effectively cleans surface contaminants and blemishes from all glossy paint finishes including clear coats and single-stage paint
Bestseller No. 8
SHINE ARMOR Ceramic Coating Fortify Quick Coat Car Wax Polish Spray Waterless Wash & Wax Hydrophobic Top Coat Polish & Polymer Paint Sealant Detail Protection
  • ADVANCED FORMULA 3 IN 1. Our fortify quick coat is your all in one ceramic coating hydrophobic spray. Shine Armor Fortify Quick Coat ceramic car wax provides a waterless wash, coat and shine, all in one convenient product.
  • NO STREAKING, SMEARING OR SCRATCHING. Shine Armor Fortify Quick Coat premium formula ceramic car coating is a gentle and effective car polish for any vehicle! Get a clean, shiny finish without hurting your car's paint.
  • CUTS DIRT, GRIME & GREASE. Our Quick Coat ceramic wax car sealant eliminates dirt, grime & grease instantly! Our signature 3-in-1 formula gives you a waterless car wash, coat and shine for a clean, showcase look.
SaleBestseller No. 9
Turtle Wax 53412 Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Polish and Wax - 14 Fl Oz.
2,662 Reviews
Turtle Wax 53412 Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Polish and Wax - 14 Fl Oz.
  • Paint correct, polish, wax and protect your vehicle in one easy step, removes swirls, scratches, and oxidation with precision polishing agents
  • Super hydrophobic and SiO2 polymers deliver extreme water beading and chemical resistant protection that lasts for months
  • Hydro-activated formula increases depth of color, leaving behind a mirror-like shine and gloss
SaleBestseller No. 10
Nu Finish Paste Car Polish, Better Than Wax, 14 oz.
1,389 Reviews
Nu Finish Paste Car Polish, Better Than Wax, 14 oz.
  • TESTING. Rated #1 car polish by leading consumer testing magazines for protection, durability, gloss improvement and best retail value.
  • RESULTS. Both liquid and paste versions are the only products to have been rated #1 by the leading U. S. consumer testing magazine
  • BUFFING. No heavy rubbing, no heavy buffing formula and can be applied in direct sunlight.


Methodology

To determine the best ceramic coating for your vehicle, we considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple testers.

Product-specific measurements/evaluation methodology:

Forbes Wheels analyzed several highly rated ceramic car care products compile this top-five list. The market is saturated with many different types of ceramic coatings, from Teflon-infused coatings that exhibit an exceptional hydrophobic finish with limited protection, to professional-grade nano coatings. While having an ultra-slick finish is desirable, the purpose of quality ceramic coatings is to provide long-lasting protection against UV exposure, environmental contaminants and light scratches. Our selections were chosen based on these attributes while also keeping the product’s overall value in mind.


Is Ceramic coating good for your car?
Is ceramic coating easy to apply?
How long does ceramic coating last?
What happens when ceramic coating wears off?
How do you maintain ceramic coating?
Should I apply wax to a ceramic coating?
How do I wash my car after ceramic coating?

Tara Hurlin Contributor
I am a content manager for Hagerty as well as a freelance automotive writer and photographer. I’m a car nut immersed in the automotive hobby, and I enjoy driving and wrenching on my custom 1961 Cadillac, 1963 Dodge 400 race wagon, 1988 Mazda RX-7 and 2018 Tacoma TRD Off-Road with Escapade trailer.