Ceramic Coating Care Checklist

Post-install care for Polar Tint ceramic coatings (3M ceramic coating / Crystal / Diamond / Eternal). Follow this routine for full warranty protection and maximum coating lifespan.

First 7 days — cure window

Day 0 Install completes. Drive home gently. Avoid touching the panels.

Days 1-2 Do not wash. Do not park under tree-sap-dropping trees if avoidable. Indoor garage parking ideal.

Days 3-5 Coating is curing. Light rain is OK. Avoid heavy contamination.

Days 6-7 Coating reaches full cure. Now safe to wash.

Ongoing — what to do

Hand-wash every 2 weeks. pH-neutral car wash soap only. Two-bucket method (wash bucket + rinse bucket). Microfiber mitt only — never sponges.

Apply booster spray every 3-6 months. Use only the Polar Tint-approved ceramic booster provided at install. Off-brand toppers can void the warranty.

Touchless laser-jet washes between hand washes. OK 7+ days post-install.

Annual inspection (3M ceramic coating tier only). Bring to any Polar Tint location for inspection, which is included in the lifetime tier.

What NOT to do

Don't use automatic brush car washes. Rotating brushes abrade the coating. Single biggest cause of premature degradation.

Don't use ammonia-based cleaners. Destroys ceramic chemistry over time.

Don't apply wax over ceramic. Wax blocks the hydrophobic action. Use only manufacturer-approved booster.

Don't ignore bird waste / bug acid. Even with ceramic, prolonged dwell time can etch paint underneath. Remove within 24 hours.

Don't use harsh wheel cleaners on coated wheels. If the wheels are also coated, ammonia-free wheel cleaner only.

Lifetime Polar Tint Promise: Covers your ceramic coating for the life of the vehicle, transferable on resale, honored at every Polar Tint location.

Need a Polar-approved ceramic booster? Visit your nearest Polar Tint →