What a coating package should include and guarantee

A ceramic coating transforms how your car sheds water, resists scratches and keeps its shine—but only if the installer wraps every stage in a real guarantee and proves what's actually included. Too many people sign up believing they've bought long-term protection, then discover six months in that the coverage was vague, the workmanship wasn't promised, or the warranty has loopholes that swallow the claim. Knowing exactly what should be in a package and how a credible guarantee looks will save you money and disappointment.

What the package must spell out in writing

A proper ceramic coating service is not just "apply product to your car." The quote or agreement should itemise the prep work, the coating layers, the curing process and any finishing touches. Ask your installer to break down what they're doing: will they clay bar the paint? Strip old wax or sealant? Sand or polish areas that need it? How many coats of ceramic go on? Will they apply a top coat or just the base? What happens during the curing window—do you need to avoid water for 48 hours, or two weeks?

Many installers gloss over prep because it's labour-intensive and invisible to the eye. This is where corners get cut. A package that mentions "full preparation" without detail is a red flag. You want to see the actual steps listed: wash, clay bar, machine polish (or hand polish if the paint is in good condition), wipe down with isopropyl alcohol or a prep spray, then coating application. If it's not written down, it probably didn't happen or happened halfway.

The guarantee should cover application, not just the product

Ceramic coating fails in two ways: the product itself degrades (rare with reputable brands), or the installer botched the application. A guarantee that promises "the coating will last five years" is worthless if it doesn't say who's responsible when it doesn't. Read carefully for what's actually covered.

A robust guarantee will typically state that the installer warrants the prep was done correctly, the coating was applied correctly, and the product will perform as specified—provided you follow care instructions. It should name the specific coating brand and version used, so you can verify independently. If something goes wrong—adhesion failure, uneven finish, rapid breakdown—they'll either recoat the affected area or refund the service fee.

Watch for exclusions. Some warranties don't cover damage from car washes with harsh brushes, parking under trees, or acid rain—these are environmental factors, not installation failure. That's fair. But if the warranty excludes "any visible flaws at inspection" or gives the installer sole discretion to decide if a fault is their problem, you're not protected; you're just hoping they're honest.

Durability claims must be honest and testable

You'll hear "five years, ten years, lifetime." These numbers sound good but need context. A five-year guarantee typically means the coating will hold up with proper care—regular gentle washing, no abrasive cleaners, waxing only if the installer approves. If you take your car through an automated brush wash twice a week, that five-year lifespan shrinks fast, and the installer will point to the warranty fine print to deny a claim.

Before booking, ask your installer exactly what "five years" or "ten years" means to them:

• Does it mean the coating prevents water spotting and swirl marks, or only that it doesn't peel off?
• What maintenance routine keeps it valid—monthly wash only, quarterly top-ups, annual inspection?
• If the coating degrades unevenly, does the whole car get recoated or just the problem areas?
• Can you transfer the guarantee if you sell the car, and does the new owner get the same protection?

Getting it in writing before the work starts

Insist on a written document—an invoice, quote or service agreement—that lists what's included and what's guaranteed. Don't rely on verbal promises or WhatsApp chats, even from someone friendly. When the time comes to claim, you need proof of what was promised.

The document should include the installer's contact details, the date the work will be done, the date the guarantee starts and ends, and the process for making a claim (do you email photos, or does the installer inspect the car?). If there's a deductible or excess, it should be stated. Ask what recourse you have if they don't respond to a claim—can you dispute it through your bank or a small claims court?

A reputable installer will welcome this level of clarity because they stand behind their work. When you're ready to book, look for someone on Strove who can walk you through their exact package and hand you a written guarantee before you commit.