At Lightning Detail, we often get asked:
“Should I wax my ceramic coated car?”
Our answer is simple: No, and here’s why.



Ceramic Coating vs. Car Wax: What’s the Difference?

Ceramic coatings are advanced, long-lasting protective layers made from nanotechnology that bond chemically with your car’s clear coat. Once applied, they create a hard, hydrophobic (water-repelling) barrier that protects your vehicle from:

• UV rays
• Chemical stains
• Bird droppings
• Road grime
• Water spots

Wax, on the other hand, is a much older form of protection. It’s organic or synthetic and sits on top of the paint, offering a soft, short-term shine and minimal protection.

Why Waxing a Ceramic Coated Car Is a Bad Idea

1. It Interferes With the Coating’s Properties

Ceramic coatings are designed to be slick and self-cleaning. When you apply wax on top, it masks these features, especially the water-beading and dirt-shedding behavior. Instead of enhancing the performance, you’re dulling it.

2. It Doesn’t Add Real Protection

Wax isn’t strong enough to add meaningful protection over ceramic. In fact, it may attract dust or degrade faster, creating buildup that actually makes your car look worse over time.

3. It Can Be a Waste of Time and Money

Ceramic coatings last for years with proper maintenance. Adding wax might sound like “extra love,” but it’s unnecessary and counterproductive. You're paying for premium performance, let it shine on its own!

What to Do Instead

If you want to maintain your ceramic coated car the right way:

✅ Use pH-neutral soaps and ceramic-safe shampoos
✅ Dry with soft microfiber towels
✅ Apply a ceramic booster spray every few months if needed
✅ Get regular maintenance washes from a pro (like us!)

Bottom Line

Waxing a ceramic coated car does more harm than good. It can interfere with the coating, dull its performance, and lead to unnecessary costs. Instead, focus on proper maintenance that supports your investment, not undermines it.

Trust the Shine to Lightning Detail

Whether your car just got ceramic coated or needs professional maintenance to keep it glowing, Lightning Detail is here to help. Our expert team knows exactly how to care for your coating.

Book your maintenance wash or ceramic inspection today.
Pittsburgh, let’s keep your shine pure, protected, and powerful.

👉 Schedule Now or call us at 412-580-7818

-Jim