All-purpose cleaner or APCs is always a go-to for any car owner. Be it removing stains, wax coating, or even simple cleaning.
But, if you have a ceramic coating, you will have second thoughts. To your ‘Is APC safe on ceramic coating’ question circling your mind, the answer is a bit confusing. APC is safe and also unsafe for ceramic coating. Why? There are factors like the chemical composition, APC density, testing before application, application method, and care afterward that ensures the safety of your ceramic coating.
Going in depth will give you a clear idea.
Is All-purpose cleaner Safe to Use on Ceramic Coating?
While a ceramic coating might seem a whole lot strong like the china on your cupboard, they are not. A silicone-based coating that doesn’t let all those bug splatter, or bird poo attacks harm your car paint, that’s all it can do.
Most APCs are very harsh. This is why you need to be extra careful while using them on your ceramic coat. It’s like incurable diseases, prevention is key. Getting these factors in line will safeguard your coat.
Chemical Composition
The first and foremost factor is to know which APC is right for your car. Not all cleaners can be used on a ceramic coat, it might even take it off. So read the ingredients and their instructions carefully before you use them in your car. Here are a few ceramic-friendly APCs you’ll find in the market.
- Meguiar’s Ultimate Wash & Wax
- Turtle Wax Hybrid Ceramic Car Wash
- Optimum No Rinse
- Chemical Guys Citrus Wash & Gloss
APC Density
APCs come with their full-on dense and raw power out of the factory. Which is why it’s instructed to dilute them before using them. And when you are using your ceramic finish, be extra cautious.
Testing Before Application
Testing always saves a life. In this case, your coating. So use a little bit of cleaner on the car surface and check if the coating is harmed or not. If it’s all good, proceed with the whole car.
Application Method
You know how to apply all-purpose cleaners, but with a ceramic coating, you might have to cut down on the ‘leave it on for a long time’ method. Otherwise, your coat might come off along with the dirt and mud. Also, make sure to wash and coat with a ceramic protectant after you are done.
Pro Safety Tips
- Never apply a cleaner without testing it.
- It’s a bad idea to apply APC in a hot car or under the sun.
- Leaving APC on for a long time will damage the car coating.
- Remember to rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaner residue and dry your car with a microfiber cloth.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Can Paint Protection Film be applied over ceramic coating?
Well, the ceramic coating has the texture of a silky smooth surface. This keeps all the dirt and nasty insect splatters away and is easy to clean off. Trying to apply a Paint Protection Film or PPF won’t work as the ceramic coating is oily and won’t stick anything on it.
Can I use any soap on ceramic coating?
Yes, you can. But not any soap. There is special soap that is made for ceramic coating just like cleaners. Using them won’t damage the coating. If you use regular car soap, the coating will start to damage gradually.
What should you not do after ceramic coating?
After a ceramic coating, avoid automatic car washes, harsh cleaners, soaps, and direct sunlight cleaning or keeping your car exposed to it. This will damage the coating.
Conclusion
Ceramic coatings will give your car a shiny look and protect it from natural splashes, bugs, and other smaller harms. But it’s not all mighty. All-purpose cleaners on the other hand can remove even the hardest wax protection. So make sure you use it with caution.