Exterior How-To's | |
Interior How-To's | |
Drying How-To's | |
Latest Innovations | |
Ceramic How-To's | |
Detailing University |
Keeping your car’s exterior looking pristine doesn't have to be a hassle. Our "Hydro" line of ceramic coatings offers a durable layer of protection that boosts shine, repels contaminants, and keeps your ride looking fresh.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying a temporary ceramic coating that cures quickly and lasts about a year, using some of the best products from our Chemical Guys Hydro line.
Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned car enthusiast, follow these instructions to take your car’s look to the next level.
Prepare Your Gear
Here’s a list of essentials for your ceramic coating:
- HydroSlick Ceramic Coating Hyper Wax
A tough ceramic coating in a gel formula that boosts shine and shields against UV rays and contaminants. - HydroView Ceramic Glass Cleaner & Coating
A 2-in-1 cleaner and ceramic coating for glass surfaces, ensuring clarity and water repellency. - HydroShield Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Ceramic Shine Coating
Perfect for bringing back the shine and protecting trims, tires, and plastic surfaces. - HydroSpin Wheel and Rim Ceramic Coating and Quick Detailer
Gives your wheels and rims a high-gloss, protective finish. - Workhorse Professional Grade Microfiber Towel 3-Pack
Soft, non-abrasive towels for buffing and cleaning. - Premium Grade Microfiber Applicators
Ideal for applying ceramic coatings evenly.
Step 1: Prep the Surface

Preparation is key when applying a ceramic coating. For a detailed guide, check out our blog How to Prep For Ceramic Coating.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Wash Your Car: Use a specialized cleaner, such as Clean Slate to remove any old coatings or residues that could damage the ceramic bonding.
- Clay Bar Treatment: Once your car is squeaky clean, use a clay bar treatmentto remove any embedded impurities in the paint.
- Inspect and Polish: Check your car’s paint for swirls or imperfections and polish if needed. Remember, ceramic coatings lock in the paint’s current condition, so fix any flaws first.
- Work in the Right Environment: Make sure you're in a shaded, well-ventilated area, free from direct sunlight and dust, for the best results.
Step 2: Ceramic Coat Your Paint

HydroSlick Ceramic Coating Hyper Wax is a super-easy gel that provides top-notch protection, killer shine, and crystal-clear clarity.
First, give the HydroSlick bottle a good shake to mix it up. Put a few drops (like three or four) on a Premium Grade Microfiber Applicator. Work in small sections so it goes on evenly and doesn’t dry out too fast.
Spread HydroSlick in straight lines, not circles, to avoid swirl marks. Overlap your strokes a bit to make sure you cover everything.
After you’ve applied it, let it sit for a minute or two. Then, grab a green Workhorse Professional Grade Microfiber Towel, fold it into quarters, and gently buff off any extra HydroSlick. You’ll get a streak-free, super glossy finish.
Work in a shaded, dry spot. Let the coating cure for two to three hours to achieve the best durability and protection.
Step 3: Coat Your Glass with HydroView

HydroView Ceramic Glass Cleaner & Coating is your all-in-one solution for cleaning and protecting your glass surfaces, inside and out. It gets rid of dirt and dust while making water bead right off for better visibility when you're driving.
Start by spraying HydroView onto a blue Workhorse Microfiber Towel or directly on the glass. Wipe the glass in straight lines to clean off any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. This will give you a crystal-clear surface and apply the ceramic coating simultaneously.
Flip your towel to the clean side and buff off any leftover residue for a streak-free, polished look. HydroView’s hydrophobic magic keeps water, dust, and pollen from sticking to the glass, keeping it cleaner longer. Work in a shaded area for best results.
Pro Tip: If the glass is really dirty, clean it first with a regular glass cleaner, such as Streak Free Window Cleaner, before using HydroView.
Step 4: Protect Your Trim and Tires

HydroShield Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Ceramic Shine Coating keeps your tires and trim looking fresh and protected from rain without that greasy shine. Its hydrophobic properties make it super resistant to water and dirt, so your trim and tires stay clean for months.
Start by spraying a little HydroShield—just two sprays—onto a Premium-Grade Microfiber Applicator. Don’t spray directly on the surface to avoid overspray and accidentally damaging the paint.
Use straight, even strokes to work HydroShield into the trim or tire surface. Cover everything to ensure consistent protection.
When you’re done, wipe off any extra with a clean, black Workhorse Microfiber Towel for a smooth, dry-to-the-touch finish. For best results, work in a shaded area and let it cure for two to three hours.
Wondering why we always recommend different color Workhorse Microfiber Towels? Check out our blog on "How to Use the Microfiber Towel Workhorse Color Code System."
Step 5: Ceramic Coat Your Rims with HydroSpin

HydroSpin Wheel and Rim Ceramic Coating and Quick Detailer is your go-to for keeping your wheels looking awesome with durable ceramic protection.
Start by putting a few drops of HydroSpin onto a Premium Grade Microfiber Applicator.
Dab HydroSpin onto the wheel in a few spots to spread it out, then work it in with straight, even strokes. Make sure you cover all areas, including those tricky corners, for full protection.
Let HydroSpin sit for a minute or two to "flash" and bond with the surface. Then, use a clean black Workhorse Microfiber Towel to gently buff off any extra product, revealing a smooth, glossy finish.
For best results, work in a shaded area and let HydroSpin cure for two to three hours before hitting the road.
By following these simple steps, you’ll achieve professional-grade results at home, making your car look and feel like new. Start your ceramic coating journey today and enjoy the benefits of long-lasting protection and shine!
Happy Detailing!
Frequent Questions About How to Apply a Ceramic Coating to Your Car’s Exterior
Can I apply a wax coating over HydroSlick?
Absolutely! Once HydroSlick is fully cured, you can layer it with your favorite wax for extra shine. For some great options, check out our Car Waxes and Sealants Collection.
How do I wash my Microfiber Applicators that are used with HydroSlick?
Wash your Microfiber Applicators immediately with Microfiber Wash Cleaning Detergent to stop the ceramic coating from curing on the fabric. For more microfiber care tips, check out our blog on How to Clean Microfiber Towels the Right Way.
How often should I reapply HydroSlick?
HydroSlick can last up to 12 months, but you can reapply it whenever you feel it's needed.
What car wash soap should I use to maintain my ceramic coatings?
HydroSuds Ceramic Car Wash Soap is a fantastic pick for keeping your ceramic coatings in top shape while giving your car a premium wash.
How do I know when the ceramic has “flashed”?
You'll know the ceramic has "flashed" when you see a rainbow-like effect on the surface. Don't let it sit too long; buffing it off will get more challenging.
Can I apply HydroSlick over existing wax?
No. Before applying HydroSlick, ensure the surface is entirely free of waxes, sealants, or contaminants. This will ensure that it bonds appropriately.