PPF Clear Bra vs. Ceramic Coatings - What's the difference?
PPF CLEAR BRA or CERAMIC COATING
How do I Choose?
When it comes to protecting your vehicle’s paint, the two best options are Paint Protection Film (PPF) and/or Ceramic Coatings and at Xclusive Autoworks, we offer both with premium products and expert craftsmanship. And after all these years, I get asked the same question over and over again.. "What is the difference?" ...
PAINT PROTECTION FILM (CLEAR BRA or PPF)
Brands we are FULLY certified to install and warranty: STEK Dynoshield, STEK Dynomatte, LLumar Platinum, PURE Colored PPF
WHAT DOES IT DO???
- Provides a thick, invisible layer of impact protection
- Defends against rock chips, scratches, road debris, and staining
- Self-heals from light scratches with heat or sunlight
- Available in gloss, satin (stealth), and solid color finishes
- Think of this like a screen protector on your phone, BUT for the delicate paint on your car!
WHY CHOOSE LLUMAR OR STEK?
- STEK Dynoshield delivers extreme high gloss and hydrophobic performance with great clarity and long term performance.
- STEK Dynomatte offers a stealth satin finish with self-healing protection. Matches BMW Frozen finishes.
- LLumar Platinum is known for excellent optical clarity and stain resistance. American made film that has been on the market for 10+ years. One of the oldest and most reputable American manufacturers.
💵 Cost:
- Starts around $2200 for full nose coverage
- Full-body wraps range from $6500–$9,500+
- PURE Colored PPF and custom installs range from $7500-$12,000
🕒 Install Time:
- 1–2 days for partial coverage
- 6+ days for full body
🧽 Maintenance:
- Treat the film as if it were paint with the exception of using Carnauba based waxes as these can stain and congest the films.
- Use pH-neutral car shampoo and high quality microfiber towels
- Avoid automatic car washes or high pressure washers
- We recommend applying CQUARTZ Skin on top for added protection & easier cleaning
Ceramic Coating (CARPRO CQUARTZ)
Brands We Offer: CQUARTZ UK 3.0, CQUARTZ Professional, CQUARTZ Skin, CQUARTZ FINEST RESERVE, DQUARTZ PRO
WHAT DOES IT DO???
- Insane Gloss as the coating creates a glass-like protective layer that enhances shine and makes washing effortless
- Easy Washing because CQUARTZ Ceramic repels water, dirt, bird droppings, and UV rays
- Prevents oxidation and chemical staining
- Adds a deep, candy-like gloss that lasts at least 5 years in our experience
WHY CHOOSE CQUARTZ/DQUARTZ?
- UK 3.0: Industry-trusted with over 12 years of testing on the market, and guaranteed to last many many years under heavy abuse.
- CQUARTZ Professional: Exclusive to trained installers, longer protection, strong chemical resistance, high gloss, very hydrophobic
- CQUARTZ Finest Reserve: The most well known flagship coating—only available through certified elite shops. Extreme high gloss and the most hydrophobic coating on the market. Strong scratch and stain resistance. This a product we have helped R&D since 2012 and 500+ of our customers can attest to it's performance.
- Skin: Designed specifically to bond with PPF and vinyl for added durability and flexibility. Adds strong hydrophobics on top of PPF.
💵 Cost:
- Entry-level coatings start at $1,095
- Higher-end professional coatings range from $1,500–$2,500+
🕒 Install Time:
- 1 day for Level One coatings
- 2–3 days for professional-grade multi-layer applications
🧽 Maintenance:
- Wait 5–7 days before washing with any soaps. Water/rain and rinseless wash is okay.
- Wash every 2–3 weeks with pH-neutral shampoo (CarPro Reset is our go-to)
- Avoid tunnel washes and use ceramic-safe drying methods
COMBINE THE TWO FOR THE BEST PROTECTiON
This is without a doubt THE most popular option among our clients!
- PPF on high-impact zones like bumpers, hood, and doors
- CQUARTZ Ceramic Coating on top for extra gloss, slickness, and easier maintenance
This combo gives you the physical protection of PPF with the long-term cleanliness and shine of ceramic.
Still unsure which is right for you? We’ll help you build a protection package that fits your needs, budget, and vehicle. We use only premium films, certified coatings, and never cut corners, OR CARS 😅 —because your car deserves the best.
