(Spoiler: They don’t compete. They complete each other.)
You’ve probably heard of ceramic coating. And maybe paint protection film (PPF), too.
But what’s the difference?
Which one should you get?
And is that upsell to “do both” just a money grab?
Paint Protection Film is a clear, impact-absorbing urethane film applied directly to your vehicle’s paint.
Think:
PPF absorbs the physical abuse your paint would otherwise take.
It’s ideal for:
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that chemically bonds with your paint (or film) to create a slick, hydrophobic surface.
It doesn’t stop rocks.
But it repels water, dirt, UV rays, and contaminants like nobody’s business.
Ceramic coating helps with:
It makes your car look freshly detailed longer—and makes cleaning faster and safer.
Short answer?
They do different things. And together, they’re powerful.
Feature | PPF | Ceramic Coating |
---|---|---|
Rock Chip Protection | ✅ | ❌ |
Scratch Resistance | ✅ | ⚠️ (only light) |
Water & Dirt Repellency | ⚠️ | ✅ |
Gloss/Sheen Enhancement | ⚠️ | ✅ |
Self-Healing | ✅ | ❌ |
UV Resistance | ✅ | ✅ |
Impact Resistance | ✅ | ❌ |
This is where most confusion comes in.
Some detailers will sell ceramic coating as a protective layer against chips and scratches.
🚫 That’s false.
Ceramic coating is not a physical barrier.
It won’t stop rocks. It won’t stop door dings. It won’t heal scratches.
It just keeps your paint (or film) looking cleaner, glossier, and safer from sun and contaminants.
Ceramic = non-stick pan
PPF = bulletproof vest
They work beautifully together—but they are not interchangeable.
Here’s what the pros (and our Arizona drivers) do:
This combo gives you:
If you’re deciding between the two:
Need help planning which coverage fits your driving style and budget?
We’ll build a custom game plan just for you.
Q: Can I apply ceramic coating on top of PPF?
A: Absolutely. In fact, it’s recommended. It helps the film stay cleaner, longer.
Q: Do I need both PPF and ceramic coating?
A: If you want total protection—yes. But we can help prioritize based on your needs and budget.
Q: Can ceramic coating stop rock chips?
A: No. That’s a myth. Ceramic coating won’t absorb impact like PPF does.
Q: How long does each one last?
A: PPF lasts 7–10 years. Ceramic coating typically lasts 2–5 years, depending on the brand and maintenance.
Q: Can I get ceramic now and add PPF later?
A: Yes, but we don’t recommend it. The coating has to be removed before PPF is applied. It’s better to apply film first, then coat.