Is ceramic coating worth it in Seattle?

Yes—Seattle’s constant rain, grime, and de-icers make coatings ideal. They simplify washing, protect against etching, and preserve gloss.

Does a ceramic coating make my car scratch-proof?

No—coatings are scratch-resistant, not scratch-proof. They help reduce swirls, but PPF is best for rock chips.

How long do ceramic coatings last?

It depends on the package. Silver lasts several years, Gold and ION last 7–10 years with maintenance, and Ultimate ION provides maximum durability.

What is Ceramic Pro ION?

Ceramic Pro ION uses ion-exchange technology to create a denser, stronger layer with superior gloss, hydrophobics, and abrasion resistance.

How does ION compare to traditional ceramic coatings?

ION offers stronger chemical and abrasion resistance with fewer layers required, outperforming traditional coatings in durability.

Can ceramic coatings and PPF be combined?

Yes—drivers often add PPF for impact zones and apply ceramic coatings for gloss, UV resistance, and easier cleaning.

Do ceramic coatings require paint correction?

Yes—coatings bond best to a polished surface. APC includes decontamination and a single-stage polish with every package.

How do I maintain a ceramic coating?

Wash with pH-neutral soap, avoid abrasive brushes, and schedule periodic inspections. Maintenance boosts coating longevity.

Where can I get ceramic coatings in Seattle?

APC Auto Spa installs Ceramic Pro coatings, including ION, at our Tukwila and Monroe locations.

Ceramic Coatings

Q: What is a ceramic coating?

A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that bonds to your paint, creating a durable sacrificial layer that resists UV, chemicals, and light scratches.

Ceramic Coatings Made Simple

At APC Auto Spa, we know the world of ceramic coatings can feel overwhelming - different names, packages, warranties, and technologies. This page breaks it down in plain language so you can understand what each option does, how Ceramic Pro ION is different, and which package makes sense for your situation and budget.

Why Seattle Drivers Choose Ceramic Coatings at APC Auto Spa

Your car or truck is one of your biggest investments. In the PNW, constant rain, road grime, tree sap, pollen, and UV Rays take a toll on paint fast. A ceramic coating acts as a sacrificial clear coat, preserving your factory finish while locking in protection now - before damage sets in. Once paint is etched or scratched, correction can be expensive. Protect early and keep in looking new for years.

As a Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, APC Auto Spa offers ceramic coating services at both our Seattle store in Tukwila and our Snohomish store in Monroe. Only Elite Dealers can install Ceramic Pro ION, the next generation of ceramic coatings. That means when you choose APC Auto Spa, you're getting technology, training, and warranties you won't find anywhere else.

What is a Ceramic Coating?

A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to your car’s paint, wheels, and glass. Once cured, it bonds to the surface and creates a protective layer. This makes your car easier to clean, more resistant to chemical damage (like road salt or bird droppings), and shinier than wax or sealants. Unlike wax, it doesn’t wash away in a few weeks.

What it does:

Adds a glossy, candy-like finish
Shields against UV fading and chemical etching
Makes washing easier because dirt and water slide off
Lasts for years, not months
Acts as a sacrificial layer to protect your factory clear coat

What it doesn’t do:

Stop rock chips/deep scratches (that’s what Paint Protection Film is for)
Eliminate the need for washing (you’ll still need to clean your car, but it’s much easier)

Why Ceramic Pro ION is different?

Most ceramic coatings stack layers of a 9H-rated product. Ceramic Pro ION is different—it uses ion exchange technology, which means the base and top layers fuse together at a molecular level. Negative and positive ION's are drawn to each other creating a harder, more chemical-resistant shield that’s smoother and slicker than traditional 9H coatings.

Benefits of ION:

Stronger resistance to chemicals and etching
Higher hardness and slickness
Easier maintenance and cleaning
Only available through Ceramic Pro Elite Dealers like APC Auto Spa in Seattle (Tukwila) and (Snohomish) Monroe
Functions like a sacrificial clear coat to preserve your factory paint finish

Which package is right for you?

Silver: Best for show cars, garage-kept vehicles, and weekend drivers who hand wash and want long-lasting gloss without daily exposure.

Gold: Best for long-term ownership on cars and trucks driven regularly but cared for - great balance of lifetime coverage and value.

ION: Best for daily drivers and family vehicles facing Seattle’s tough weather and wanting easier maintenance.

Ultimate ION: Best for work trucks, off-road SUVs, tunnel wash users, and anyone demanding the strongest ceramic coating available.

Ultimate Armor: Best for drivers who want all-in protection - rock chip defense with film plus ceramic for lifetime gloss and durability.

Maintenance & Warranty

Every Ceramic Pro package requires annual maintenance to keep the warranty valid. If you skip it, your warranty reverts to a shorter coverage period. Maintenance is a professional check-up and light reapplication that ensures your coating keeps performing like day one.

Skipping maintenance means you lose long-term warranty coverage - don’t let a simple missed visit cost you years of protection.