[kjb914]

I've never done it to any of my vehicles so I have no idea if it's really worth it - especially seeing that I'm going to be leasing. However, I've heard how dirt and dust seem to wash right off, and even more appealing is getting it applied to the rims due to BMW's and their ridiculous brake dust. I was quoted $1,500 for a 5 year application, which I know sounds crazy seeing as it's a 3 year lease, but the other option is a 2 year application and that is still $1,200.

So first off, is that a normal price? Second - if I wanted to apply it myself, how easy is it put on and what brand does everyone recommend? Thanks!!

[CaptSlow27]

Around $1000 is the going rate for CQuartz pro in the Tristate. Note, pretty much all cars need at least a 1-step polish prior to application. The simple fact is, paint from the factory arrives to the dealer with defects and swirls. Ceramic coating will lock those in. Therefore, a correction is needed. That plus the coating itself is expensive (and some are only available to certified installers, is CQuartz pro or finest). That being said, if you know how to use a D/A and can polish your own car, application of a quality ceramic coating is not hard at all.

[CaptSlow27]

Given the time it takes to do this properly, that is a reasonable price. Just shop around and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

[Koturbo]

C quarts and Gyeon seem to be the two most prominent. Both have excellent results. I have applied the retail versions of both, and have also had the C quartz finest reserve done by a pro, which I believe has the highest SiO2 content available. I think it’s important to understand what a ceramic coating is, and is not:

It is:

A high gloss, slick, hydrophobic, protective layer that will help to reduce fine swirling and marring from dust and other small debris, and will make washing much easier.

It is not:

A ppf film, and will not eliminate scratches, or other heavier marring. It will not hold up to poor washing and paint care techniques, and most of all, it is NOT worth trying to do yourself if you’re skeptical about your capabilities as a detailer.

All in all it’s a great paint protector especially on wheels, but it’s not a miracle. I would still suggest a ppf on at least the front of the vehicle to ensure full protection.

[CaptSlow27]

I agree with Koturbo, but would never advocate for PPF on a lease. You are just giving money to your dealer or the next owner if you don’t plan on buying it out.

[kjb914]

Originally Posted by CaptSlow27

I agree with Koturbo, but would never advocate for PPF on a lease. You are just giving money to your dealer or the next owner if you don't plan on buying it out.

I have to agree with that. If I were buying the car, that's a totally different thing, but I can't justify PPF on a lease.

This is awesome info though. Thank you guys for the input. BTW, what would make it a 2 year application or a 5 year application?? Are there different "levels" of it or is it simply number of coats?

[ThumperMCS]

Quote seems about normal...anywhere from $1000-1500

I too am leasing, but I want it to look good throughout the 3 years, so to me its worth it. Maybe if I got a white, black, or silver I wouldn't be as apt to do it...but the Toronto Red I have is just so vibrant and wet looking, I want it to stay like that the whole time!

[CaptSlow27]

Originally Posted by kjb914

I have to agree with that. If I were buying the car, that's a totally different thing, but I can't justify PPF on a lease.

This is awesome info though. Thank you guys for the input. BTW, what would make it a 2 year application or a 5 year application?? Are there different "levels" of it or is it simply number of coats?

Depends on the company. Don’t give too much credence to the quote years. Mostly marketing BS, especially from company’s that have not been around long enough to put their money where their mouth is.

[2sporty]

Originally Posted by CaptSlow27

Around $1000 is the going rate for CQuartz pro in the Tristate. Note, pretty much all cars need at least a 1-step polish prior to application. The simple fact is, paint from the factory arrives to the dealer with defects and swirls. Ceramic coating will lock those in. Therefore, a correction is needed. That plus the coating itself is expensive (and some are only available to certified installers, is CQuartz pro or finest). That being said, if you know how to use a D/A and can polish your own car, application of a quality ceramic coating is not hard at all.

It is true that you will get your car with swirl marks, but only if the people at the port are told to wash it. Luckily, my car did not come with swirls.

[kzg1969]

there are many options for "ceramic" coatings these days.

1. simple spray on, wash off. Try something like Gyeon wet coat or turtle wax dry and shine

2. a DIY version of the coatings - Gyeon Cancoat for example. More effort to apply and last maybe 6-12month

3. Professional - easily the best and lasts longest. but you know the prices!



try no.1 at home first. It will only last a few washes but will let you know if you want to spend >$1000

[kzg1969]

I would add though, that i have went with PPF and DIY ceramics this time as it is a dark coloured car and the soft paint these days show stone chips real easy

it is a lease car too, but i argue that PPF makes more sense if you just like to look after your cars.

[suby01]

The $1,000 and $1,200 prices you guys already mentioned are like freebees. Lowest price I was quoted for Ceramic Pro was at $1,800. And the detail shop might as well been in a back ally next to a dumpster. Any other reputable shops with any valid Google reviews were at 2K+. But worth every dollar. Hope that helps.

[RustyBitz]

I have Gyeon in my current car, I won't be bothering with the X3M since I won't be keeping it.

[clickclickboom]

I did mine myself. Cquartz UK 3.0.

I wiped down the car with 50/50 iso/water.
Checked for imperfections and fixed any few.
Wiped on the Cquartz in a criss/cross pattern and wiped off.
Then did a second app.
Finished up by applying Reload.

Very easy process. I used 40ml product on the vehicle.

[kzg1969]

^ - I'm going to do somehting similar. Just waiting find the time. Even in a new car i would use Tar and Fallout remover first .... maybe tar is not needed but fallout for sure.

[OldAviatorGOARMY]

Hey there!

Quick question...

Just had my new X4 Ceramic Coated last Wednesday, so 5 days now. Drove up the coast yesterday so a good amount of bugs, and worse, wine tasting with dirt parking area left a good layer of dust.

What is worse, leaving the dust and bugs on for another 2days until its cured for a week, or risk rinsing the dust off with just water at this point???

Thanks in advance to the smart guys out there...

[CZS]

Originally Posted by OldAviatorGOARMY

Hey there!

Quick question...

Just had my new X4 Ceramic Coated last Wednesday, so 5 days now. Drove up the coast yesterday so a good amount of bugs, and worse, wine tasting with dirt parking area left a good layer of dust.

What is worse, leaving the dust and bugs on for another 2days until its cured for a week, or risk rinsing the dust off with just water at this point???

Thanks in advance to the smart guys out there...

After 5 days the ceramic is fully cured and you can absolutely wash the car.

[OldAviatorGOARMY]

Originally Posted by CZS

After 5 days the ceramic is fully cured and you can absolutely wash the car.

CZS,

You've made my day! Thank you!

https://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/image...es/thumbup.gif

[Custom X4M Comp]

Originally Posted by OldAviatorGOARMY

CZS,

You've made my day! Thank you!

https://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/image...es/thumbup.gif

My front end is covered in ceramic PPF film and the rest of the car is ceramic coated.
I paid 1K for the ceramic and $700 for the PPF film. It looks awesome and protects your car, worth every penny.
My car is wrapped and it looks so much more shinier with the ceramic coating.

[Radman_F97]

I'm looking for a ceramic coating in Portland, Oregon. Does anyone have any recommendations for preferred shops?

Thanks

[evanlol1225]

As a guy who owns a coating and ppf shop? If you are getting brand new and the dealer doesn’t put on any waxes - do it yourself since you are leasing.

Now if you called our shop I would tell you can do it yourself but of course going with us gives you assurances and a professional grade product and workmanship which will translate into better durability and benefits. The same goes for pro shops in your area. TBH (1000-1500 is on the low ish side)

But on a brand new bmw that hadn’t been on their lot for a long time you most likely will have minimal swirling, and unless you have a keen eye you probably won’t see much of them if any.

Do a really good wash with some type of stripping soap (Carpro Reset). Dry it good but safely. Wipe it with a prep spray (Gyeon Prep) and coat it. Coatings are easier than ever to apply and people who pay for ceramic pro are getting ripped off paying per layer lol.

DIY Details coatings are catered to, yes, DIYers lol. They have plenty of videos showing them doing it and actually discuss what I just typed up on some of them. Yvan Lacroix the owner is very well known in the detailing world for having his hand in creating many products pros use all day everyday.

[evanlol1225]

Originally Posted by OldAviatorGOARMY

Hey there!

Quick question...

Just had my new X4 Ceramic Coated last Wednesday, so 5 days now. Drove up the coast yesterday so a good amount of bugs, and worse, wine tasting with dirt parking area left a good layer of dust.

What is worse, leaving the dust and bugs on for another 2days until its cured for a week, or risk rinsing the dust off with just water at this point???

Thanks in advance to the smart guys out there...

Use a detail spray and wipe off. No worries necessary.