Introduction
Car dealerships often offer additional services to protect your vehicle. One of these services is dealer applied paint protection. But what exactly is it, and is it worth the investment? In this article, we’ll dive into the details of what dealer applied paint protection is, how it works, and whether it’s worth the cost.
What is Dealer Applied Paint Protection?
Dealer applied paint protection is a service offered by car dealerships to protect your vehicle’s paint from damage. The protection is typically applied as a clear coat over the existing paint. The idea is that the clear coat will help prevent damage from things like bird droppings, tree sap, and other environmental hazards.
How Does it Work?
The clear coat used in dealer applied paint protection is usually a polymer or ceramic coating. These coatings create a barrier between the paint and the environment, helping to prevent damage. They also make the paint more resistant to scratches and swirl marks.
Is it Worth the Cost?
Dealer applied paint protection can be expensive, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. Whether or not it’s worth the cost depends on a few factors. If you live in an area with harsh environmental conditions, such as near the ocean or in an area with a lot of trees, it may be worth the investment. Additionally, if you plan on keeping your car for a long time, the added protection may help maintain its value.
The Pros and Cons of Dealer Applied Paint Protection
Pros
The biggest advantage of dealer applied paint protection is that it can help prevent damage to your vehicle’s paint. This can help maintain its appearance and value. Additionally, the protection can make it easier to clean your car and keep it looking new.
Cons
The biggest downside to dealer applied paint protection is the cost. It can be expensive, and the protection may not last as long as you’d like. Additionally, some people have reported issues with the clear coat yellowing or peeling over time.
Alternatives to Dealer Applied Paint Protection
Waxing
One alternative to dealer applied paint protection is regular waxing. Waxing your car a few times a year can help protect the paint from environmental hazards and make it easier to clean. However, waxing doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a clear coat.
DIY Coatings
Another alternative is DIY coatings. There are a variety of ceramic coatings available for purchase that you can apply yourself. These coatings can be less expensive than dealer applied paint protection, but they can also be more difficult to apply correctly.
Conclusion
Dealer applied paint protection can be a good investment if you want to protect your car’s paint from damage. However, it can be expensive and may not be worth the cost for everyone. There are alternatives available, such as regular waxing or DIY coatings, that can offer some level of protection at a lower cost. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to invest in dealer applied paint protection comes down to your personal priorities and budget.
