If you’re purchasing a new vehicle, someone has certainly mentioned depreciation. You’ve probably factored it into your decision when choosing which car will hold the most value the longest. According to Progressive, many cars lose up to 20% of their value in the first year, and 15% more each year after that until around year five. Those numbers can be discouraging, but you can take measures to retain more value in your vehicle.
Start by considering the add-on services and products your dealership offers during the purchase process. Some of them will help your vehicle maintain its value, making them a long-term investment, not a luxury. Ceramic paint coating is one of those.
What Is Ceramic Paint Protection?
When lead was removed from automotive paint, the paint’s flexibility and durability were diminished. Ceramic paint-coating technology can return some of those qualities, making paint less vulnerable to damage and allowing damage that does occur to be repaired more easily.
Ceramic coating starts as a liquid polymer that chemically bonds to molecules in your vehicle’s paint. It creates a protective, glass-like layer on painted surfaces. This anti-static barrier repels small particles, seals out oxidative elements from the environment, and resists degradation from extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
How Does Ceramic Coating Add Value?
Resale prices are up to 15% to 20% higher for treated vehicles compared to non-treated ones. The exact reasons for this will vary by vehicle and buyer, but they include:
Appearance — Maintaining your vehicle’s like-new exterior appearance with ceramic paint treatments means you’ll avoid fading, oxidation, scratches, and other common paint issues that make a car look old and tired. Your car will be more attractive in a competitive market, and buyers won’t be thinking of immediate repair costs.
Maintenance — Ceramic coating repels dirt and pollen and provides a protective barrier for things like tree sap and road salt, keeping your car cleaner with less frequent washing. Since a proper ceramic coating can last for years, this is a drastic reduction in maintenance over time — for you and the next owner.
Security — Your car’s exterior appearance will give potential buyers an impression of how you cared for it overall. Professional paint protection will show your commitment to preserving its value, inspiring confidence that the vehicle will be a worthy investment.
Conclusion
The up-front cost of professional ceramic coating may feel unnecessary, especially when you’re already looking at a big purchase. But by protecting your car from the elements, preserving its appearance, and reducing maintenance, consider ceramic coating a weapon against depreciation and an investment in long-term resale value.