Two very different products that protect your paint in completely different ways. Here's the honest breakdown so you can make the right call.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that bonds to your clear coat. It creates a hydrophobic, UV-resistant, chemical-resistant barrier. Water beads and rolls off. Dirt doesn't stick. Bird droppings and road salt wash away instead of etching. It does NOT prevent rock chips, door dings, or scratches from physical impacts. Think of it as chemical armor.
Paint Protection Film is a physical urethane film applied to your paint. It absorbs rock chips, road debris, and light scratches. It's self-healing — minor scratches disappear with heat. It does NOT provide the hydrophobic or chemical-resistant properties of ceramic coating. Think of it as a bulletproof vest for your paint.
Ceramic coating: $599–$2,499 depending on package. PPF partial front: $1,200–$2,000. PPF full body: $4,500–$8,500. Ceramic coating on top of PPF: add $300–$500.
Our recommendation for NYC drivers: PPF on high-impact areas (hood, bumper, fenders, mirrors) + ceramic coating on the entire car. This gives you physical protection where you need it most and chemical/UV protection everywhere. It's the setup we put on our own vehicles.
Learn more about our ceramic coating and PPF services, or get a quote for your specific vehicle.
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Ready to protect your vehicle? Get a free quote or call us at (808) 556-7589.
