How long after a ceramic coating before I can wash my car?

Wait a full 7 days before the first wash and avoid rain or sprinklers for 24–48 hours so the coating can fully cure.

What is covered under your ceramic coating warranty?

Coverage runs 2–5 years depending on the package and covers loss of hydrophobic performance and gloss under normal use, provided the recommended maintenance wash cadence is followed.

How often should I wash a coated vehicle?

Every 2 weeks using a pH-neutral shampoo and the two-bucket method. Avoid automated brush car washes — they void coating warranties.

Is paint correction permanent?

Defects we remove are permanently removed, but new swirl marks can appear from improper washing. Pair correction with a ceramic coating and proper wash technique to preserve results.

Policy

Warranty & Vehicle Care

Last updated: June 17, 2026

Every service we deliver is backed by a written guarantee. The instructions below protect that finish — follow them and your coating, correction, or film will look its best for years.

Coverage

Ceramic Coating

2–5 Years

Loss of hydrophobic (water-beading) properties
Premature gloss degradation under normal use
Coating failure not caused by chemical, mechanical, or accident damage

Paint Correction

Workmanship Guarantee

Defect removal documented at delivery
Free touch-up on any missed defect reported within 7 days
Does not cover new defects introduced by washing or environmental damage

Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Up to 10 Years (Manufacturer)

Yellowing, cracking, peeling, or bubbling per manufacturer terms
Self-healing surface performance
Installation workmanship by Merchants of Shine for 1 year

Merchandise

30 Days

Defects in materials or stitching
Manufacturing flaws on apparel and accessories
Excludes normal wear, improper care, or laundering damage

Aftercare Timeline

The first week is critical. The coating chemically bonds and fully cures during this window.

First 24–48 Hours

· Keep the vehicle dry — no rain, sprinklers, or wash
· Do not park under trees (sap, pollen, bird droppings)
· Avoid touching the paint surface

Days 3–7

· Light moisture exposure is okay; still no washing
· Wipe any contaminants gently with a clean microfiber and distilled water
· Avoid covered car covers that trap moisture

After Day 7

· Hand wash only using a pH-neutral shampoo
· Use the two-bucket method with separate wash and rinse mitts
· Dry with a clean, plush microfiber towel — never chamois or terry

Maintenance Recommendations

Maintenance wash every 2 weeks (weekly during pollen season)
Quarterly decontamination wash with iron remover and clay treatment
Annual inspection and ceramic top-up at our Atlanta studio
Spot-clean bird droppings, tree sap, and bug residue within 24 hours
Never use dish soap, glass cleaner, or abrasive sponges on coated paint
Avoid automated tunnel washes and stiff-brush self-serve bays

What Voids the Warranty

Use of automatic brush or tunnel car washes
Application of waxes, sealants, or polishes over the coating
Damage from accidents, collisions, vandalism, or hail
Chemical etching from gasoline, brake fluid, or industrial fallout left untreated
Repainting, wet sanding, or compounding by a third party
Failure to perform the recommended maintenance wash cadence

Filing a Claim

Email concierge@merchantsofshine.com with your invoice number, the vehicle's VIN, and photos of the issue. We respond within two business days and schedule an in-person inspection at our Atlanta studio at no charge.

Questions?

Call (866) 231-1242 or text our concierge — we are happy to walk you through proper wash technique before your first maintenance cycle.