The Hidden Truth About Ceramic Coating Prep

Updated 03-18-2025

A shocking 70% of ceramic coating failures stem from improper surface preparation. That’s right—most coatings don’t fail because of the product itself but due to contamination left behind during prep. When a ceramic coating doesn’t bond directly to clean, decontaminated paint, it won’t last, won’t protect, and won’t deliver the results you expect.

Think about it: a high-performance ceramic coating forms a chemical bond with your paint. But what happens if there’s leftover grime, wax, or oils in the way? The coating sits on top of those contaminants instead of bonding directly to the surface, leading to premature failure, reduced durability, and lackluster hydrophobic performance.

This article will walk you through the correct wash and prep process using hyperCLEAN Cleanse, ensuring your vehicle’s surface is truly ready for ceramic coating application. By following this step-by-step process, you’ll achieve professional results, and long-lasting ceramic coating that performs better, and enhances your vehicle’s gloss and protection.

Step 1: Pre-Wash to Remove Heavy Contaminants

Before making contact with your vehicle’s paint, a pre-wash is critical to break down surface grime and road debris. This step minimizes the risk of dragging contaminants across the surface, which can cause scratches and swirls. 

Use hyperCLEAN TRX on lower panels, wheel wells, and heavily soiled areas to break down grease and road film. Allow it to work for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a pressure washer or strong hose stream. This process removes the heaviest grime before moving into a contact wash, reducing the chance of damage during the wash process.

If your vehicle is extremely dirty, consider a second pre-wash application. Mud, salt, and excessive road grime need extra attention, especially in colder months or for off-road vehicles. Skipping this step increases the chances of trapping contaminants in your wash mitt, which leads to micro-marring and unnecessary swirl marks in your paint.

Step 2: The Contact Wash with hyperCLEAN Cleanse

Unlike pH-neutral soaps that maintain existing protection, hyperCLEAN Cleanse is formulated to strip away waxes, sealants, and contaminants, leaving the paint bare and ready for a ceramic coating. 

Use 2-3 oz in a foam cannon or 1-2 oz in a bucket with clean water. Apply generously, allowing the product to sit momentarily before washing. We use multiple towels or mitts and never go back to bucket with dirty mitt requently to avoid reintroducing dirt, then make sure all product residue is completely removed to prevent interference with the coating’s bond.

For optimal results, wash your vehicle using straight-line motions rather than circular ones. This technique reduces the chance of swirl marks. Pay special attention to high-contact areas such as door handles, side mirrors, and the front bumper, as they accumulate more road debris and require thorough cleansing. 

Also, always rinse thoroughly to ensure Cleanse is completely removed before moving on to decontamination.

Step 3: Iron Decontamination for Maximum Purity

Even after washing, microscopic iron particles from brake dust and industrial fallout may remain embedded in your paint. These contaminants can cause long-term damage and weaken a ceramic coating’s bond. 

Use hyperCLEAN Fuego by spraying it across the entire vehicle, focusing on lower panels. Let it dwell for 2-4 minutes—you’ll notice purple streaks as iron particles dissolve—then rinse thoroughly with a strong stream of water. Skipping this step can lead to premature failure of your ceramic coating.

If your vehicle has excessive iron deposits, you may need a second application of Fuego. Gently agitate affected areas with a microfiber towel or soft wash mitt to further assist the decontamination process. Vehicles driven in urban environments or high-traffic areas tend to accumulate more iron fallout and may require iron removal more frequently.

Step 4: Final Surface Prep with hyperCLEAN Wipe

The last step before coating application is removing any remaining residues, oils, or unseen contaminants with hyperCLEAN Wipe. Even after a thorough wash, microscopic oils and residues can be found on the paint, preventing the ceramic coating from bonding correctly. 

Spray Wipe liberally onto the surface of the paint  and gently wipe each panel, flipping the towel frequently to avoid streaking. Inspect the surface to make sure you have a completely clean, residue-free finish. At this point, your vehicle’s paint is completely bare and ready for ceramic coating application.

For best results, use two towels—one for the initial application of hyperCLEAN Wipe and the second to buff away any remaining product. This two-towel method ensures no residue is left behind, and helps eliminate streaks on darker-colored vehicles. Work panel by panel, ensuring every section is fully prepped before moving on.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Prepping for Ceramic Coating

Skipping the pre-wash will have you grinding dirt into the paint during the wash. Using dish soap will leave behind unwanted residues that interfere with bonding. Rushing the process allows for contamination that weakens coating durability. Skipping the final wipe can leave oils or other residue that causes premature coating failure.

Another common mistake is washing in direct sunlight. Heat can cause water and products to dry too quickly, resulting in water spots and streaks. Always work in a shaded area and use deionized water when possible to minimize mineral deposits. 

Additionally, using the wrong towels can leave lint and fiber residue behind—invest in high-quality, low-pile microfiber towels for a streak-free finish.

The Foundation for a Long-Lasting Ceramic Coating

The longevity and performance of a ceramic coating depend entirely on how well the surface is prepped. hyperCLEAN Cleanse, TRX, Fuego, and Wipe work together to create the perfect foundation for ceramic bonding. 

By following this proven method, you’ll ensure your ceramic coating adheres properly, delivers the best possible gloss, and provides long-lasting protection. Don’t take shortcuts—prep the right way, and your ceramic coating will reward you with years of durability and easy maintenance.

Proper preparation isn’t just about making the ceramic coating look better—it also ensures the coating lasts as long as possible. A poorly prepped surface can shorten the lifespan of a ceramic coating by up to 50%. Investing time in washing and decontaminating your vehicle properly will save you money in the long run by maximizing the coating’s durability and performance.