You ask, and we answer all your questions about paint protection for your vehicle

Q: What is the best way for me to protect the paint on my new car? I’ve heard some people say to go with the films, and I’ve heard others say to go with the ceramic coating. What do you suggest? – JM, Mentor, Ohio

A: That’s a great question, and we’re glad to help. At the end of the day, you can actually apply both to a vehicle, if you choose, as they both have different strengths depending on what you want to accomplish. However, most of our customers end up choosing one or the other, based on what they hope to accomplish. Let’s take a look at how they work and what they are good at accomplishing.

Paint Protective Films Provide Long-Term Protection

D&S Automotive is proud to use Xpel Ultimate Plus Paint Protective Film to help protect your vehicle from unsightly damage. One of the biggest advantages to a protective film is that it displays self-healing properties, meaning that it will return to its original form after getting hit with a rock or debris that would otherwise chip and damage our paint. The Xpel film also does a great job at preventing small scratches, swirl marks, and hard water spots. The film is applied in sections, so you can choose to do the full front end, partial front end, luggage area, door cups and rocker areas a la carte or do them all.

Ceramic Coatings Enhance the Day-to-Day Appearance of Your Vehicle

D&S Automotive uses Ceramic Pro to provide durability and toughness for your vehicle’s exterior or interior surfaces. This clear, liquid coating transforms itself on the surface and creates a durable yet flexible glass shield when cured. The ceramic coating then shields your car from weather conditions, corrosion, oxidation, UV rays, and more, while providing 3 times the hardness and self-cleaning properties for your vehicle.

What Do They Have in Common?

Both products stop chemical stains and chemical etch marks. Both products prevent oxidation which causes fading, and both are invisible to the naked eye. At the end of the day, each product is designed to keep your vehicle looking newer and help it last longer.

How Are They Different?

The Xpel film is better at preventing “impact” damage from small debris. As described above, if your paint is hit with gravel or gets a small scratch, it will heal itself and the damage will actually go away. The ceramic coat is designed to keep contaminants out of your paint. It makes your car look better after a wash, keeping your car cleaner for longer and making it easier to clean. If you are worried about nicks and scratches, the film is your answer. If you are worried about fading and appearance on a day-to-day basis, the ceramic coat could provide what you are looking for. Again, you don’t have to choose – you can apply both for the ultimate protection for your car’s paint job.

No Matter Your Decision, D&S is Here to Help You!

Our experts can apply both the Xpel Ultimate Plus Paint Protective Film and the Ceramic Pro coating to help your vehicle stay protected in the Northeast Ohio elements. Contact us today to consult with our team, and we’ll see you soon at D&S!