Policy · Updated November 11, 2025

Ceramic Coating Warranty

Every coating we install is warrantied for the full rated life of the tier you bought, and we will recoat repaired panels for free. This page is the complete policy, in full, so there is nothing to discover later.

Warranty duration and eligibility

The warranty period directly corresponds to the rated longevity of the coating purchased and applied:

  • 3-Year Ceramic Coating: 3-year warranty coverage
  • 5-Year Ceramic Coating: 5-year warranty coverage
  • 8-Year Ceramic Coating: 8-year warranty coverage

The warranty begins on the exact date the coating is applied. No grace period or delayed start date applies.

This warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original owner and the originally coated vehicle. If the vehicle is sold, traded or transferred, the warranty automatically terminates.

What the warranty covers

This warranty covers the performance of the ceramic coating itself: specifically, protection against premature coating failure. If, within the covered period, the coating fails to perform as intended under normal use and with proper maintenance, Cole’s Auto Detailing will inspect and, if applicable, reapply the coating to the affected area(s) at no cost to the client.

What coating failure means

A ceramic coating is considered to have failed if:

  • The surface no longer exhibits hydrophobic (water-repelling) behavior under normal conditions.
  • Contaminants bond excessively to the paint, despite proper washing and care.
  • Gloss and slickness are permanently lost because the coating no longer bonds with the paint.
  • The coating no longer offers chemical resistance or surface protection when properly maintained.

This warranty does not cover the accumulation of dirt, water spots or contamination that temporarily affects performance but can be restored through proper maintenance or decontamination.

How a warranty claim works

  1. Initial contact. You contact Cole’s Auto Detailing with your name, original service date (if possible) and vehicle details, describing the concern and symptoms.
  2. Preliminary review. We review the reported issue and schedule an in-person inspection, either at our facility or, if you prefer, a mobile visit.
  3. Full wash and decontamination. The vehicle undergoes a full hand wash and decontamination to remove iron fallout, tar and mineral buildup.
  4. Coating evaluation. After decontamination, the surface is examined for hydrophobic response, gloss and tactile slickness. If the coating resumes normal performance after cleaning, it is deemed intact and functioning properly.
  5. Reapplication, if failure is confirmed. If the coating has genuinely failed within the warranty period and proper maintenance has been verified, we reapply the coating to the affected panel(s) at no cost, covering both labor and materials.

All warranty inspections and work are performed by Cole’s Auto Detailing or an authorized representative. Outside services or independent testing are not recognized as valid for warranty claims.

Maintenance requirements

To keep full warranty coverage, the vehicle must be properly cared for throughout the warranty period. The coating’s longevity depends on correct washing and upkeep:

  • Hand wash only; no tunnel or brush car washes.
  • Use a pH-neutral automotive shampoo.
  • Use a microfiber wash mitt and the two-bucket method, or any other scratch-free wash method.
  • Dry only with clean, soft microfiber drying towels or compressed air.
  • Avoid abrasive tools, brushes or harsh chemicals.
  • Wash every 2–4 weeks, and at minimum once per month.
  • Remove bird droppings, tree sap, tar or bugs promptly with water and a soft towel.
  • Do not leave heavy debris or contaminants on the vehicle for extended periods.
  • Do not apply unapproved waxes, sealants or ceramic sprays that could alter the coating’s performance.

For 8-year coatings: the coating must be boosted or professionally maintained by Cole’s Auto Detailing at least once per year to keep the warranty active. Our maintenance plans are built for exactly this.

Damage coverage: free recoating after repair

If your vehicle experiences body damage, paint repair or panel replacement that removes or compromises the coating, Cole’s Auto Detailing will recoat the repaired or replaced area free of charge, up to three panels per incident.

  • The damage must involve repainting, refinishing or replacement of body panels.
  • The repair must be completed by a professional body shop or manufacturer-approved repair facility.
  • Proof of repair or replacement must be provided.
  • Coverage applies up to 25% of the vehicle’s total surface area or three panels per incident, whichever is less.

If the damage exceeds this amount, or the entire vehicle requires recoating, normal service rates apply to the additional areas.

What the warranty does not cover

This warranty applies only to verified coating failure under normal use and proper maintenance. It does not cover issues resulting from neglect, misuse or external factors outside our control, including:

  • Neglecting to wash the vehicle regularly (every 2–4 weeks).
  • Use of automatic, tunnel or brush car washes.
  • Washing with abrasive tools, dirty towels or unapproved chemicals.
  • Applying waxes, sealants or coatings not authorized by Cole’s Auto Detailing.
  • Environmental neglect: tree sap, salt, bugs, bird droppings or industrial fallout left on the paint for extended periods.
  • Damage caused by impact, accidents, road debris or vandalism beyond normal wear.
  • Swirl marks, scratches, rock chips or etching caused after application.
  • Paint failure due to manufacturer defect or poor previous repainting.
  • Any work, alteration or polishing performed by an unauthorized party.
  • Improper storage, neglect or long-term exposure to harsh environments without maintenance.

Any of the above voids warranty coverage immediately.

Limitations

This warranty covers only the ceramic coating product and its performance when properly maintained. It does not extend to the underlying paint, clear coat or other vehicle surfaces. Cole’s Auto Detailing’s responsibility under this warranty is limited to reapplication of the coating to the affected areas, as determined by inspection.

Cole’s Auto Detailing reserves the right to deny claims that result from neglect, improper maintenance or unauthorized third-party work. All warranty decisions are made at the sole discretion of Cole’s Auto Detailing after inspection and evaluation. By proceeding with a ceramic coating installation, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood and agreed to these terms.

Questions or a claim

Call or text (415) 238-8036 or email info@colesautodetailing.co. We address every issue promptly, and we would rather hear about it early.