There’s something special about a freshly detailed car that turns heads. That deep, glossy shine, the slick finish that beads water like magic, and the satisfaction of knowing your car is protected from the elements. But let’s face it – keeping that showroom finish is no easy feat, especially with Australia’s unpredictable climate, and we don't all have the time and money to spend thousands on a professional coating. This is where a DIY ceramic coating comes into its own, where waxes and other sealants don't.
Whether you're a weekend enthusiast, a first-time DIYer, or a seasoned detailer, there's a ceramic coating that matches your needs, budget, and skill level. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits, application process, and our top product recommendations so you can achieve professional-level protection and finish – all from the comfort of your garage.
What is a Ceramic Coating, and what are its benefits?
1. Long-Lasting Protective Layer
A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that chemically bonds with your car’s paintwork to create a semi-permanent protective layer. Most are based on silicon dioxide (SiO₂), which forms a hard, glass-like finish. Once cured, it shields your car from UV rays, road grime, chemical contaminants, bird droppings, water spots, and more. Just be aware, plenty of ceramic coatings love to brag about being "scratch resistant”. Ceramic coatings may help to prevent water spots etc, but your paint isn’t turning into bulletproof armour anytime soon!
2. Provides Next-Level Gloss and Depth
Ceramic coatings don’t just protect your paint – they enhance it. Ceramic coatings provide that unmistakable gloss–rich, wet-looking paint that amplifies depth and clarity.
Colours look deeper. Metallics sparkle more. Pearls shift brighter. A well-applied ceramic coat brings out the best in your paintwork and keeps it locked in.
3. Offers Easier Maintenance
With their slick, hydrophobic surface, ceramic coatings make maintenance a breeze.
Water sheets off, taking dust and grime with it. Bugs, bird poo, and dirt are less likely to stick. Even after a road trip or rainy day, a quick rinse often brings your car back to life.
DIY vs. Professional Coatings
Now here’s the million-dollar question: Should you go the DIY route or leave it to the pros? Professional ceramic coatings — often only available through trained, certified detailers — offer industry-grade formulations with extreme durability (up to 5+ years) and sometimes even warranties. But they come at a price, usually ranging from $1,200 to $2,500 per vehicle, depending on the level of paint correction required.
While it is hard to beat a professional coating when it comes to paint and gloss protection, DIY ceramic coatings have come a long way in the past decade. Brands like Gyeon, GTechnic and Duragloss now offer user-friendly kits that you can apply in your own garage — no white lab coat required.
DIY Ceramic Coating Pros:
- Budget-friendly ($80–$160 per kit)
- Apply at your own pace and at home
- Similar levels of water beading, UV protection and gloss to professional coatings, just over a shorter period of time
- Beginner-to-advanced options available
Cons:
- Requires surface prep and some patience
- Shorter lifespan (1–3 years typical)
- No professional warranty (but plenty of personal satisfaction!)
For many, the trade-off is worth it. If you’re confident in your ability to follow instructions and prep your car properly, DIY ceramic coatings are absolutely worth the investment. You get to protect your car and take pride in doing it yourself.
Top DIY Ceramic Coatings Available in Australia
Best Value for Money
Gyeon Q² CanCoat
Looking for the quickest way to get into ceramic coatings? The Gyeon Q² CanCoat is your ideal entry-level product.
Why you'll love it:
- Spray onto the provided microfibre towel, wipe on and wipe off — it’s that simple.
- 1 Bottle can be used up to 10 times (depending on the size of your car), meaning you are spending less than $8 per application!
- Adds instant gloss and hydrophobicity in just minutes.
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Incredibly versatile - can be applied on paint, trim, rims, metal, carbon fibre or PPF/vinyl.
- Perfect for topping up existing coatings or as a standalone for up to 12 months of protection.
- Ideal for maintenance use or quick weekend refreshes.
Heads-up: If you spray too large an area at once, it can be tricky to level, so work in smaller sections for best results. While this is a good rule to follow with the following products, as this is the only spray-on coating, it is easy to get carried away with applications.
The Great All-Rounder
Duragloss Enviroshield Ceramic Coating System
A tried and true product for those looking for excellent value, ease of use, and reliable protection. The Duragloss Enviroshield Ceramic Coating is ideal for beginners and experienced Home detailers alike.
Why it's great:
- Extremely easy to apply with forgiving wipe-off.
- Offers an affordable solution for long-lasting paint protection.
- Great option for first-timers or time-poor detailers looking for a more traditional style coating.
This kit strikes the perfect balance between price, performance, and application ease — a winning combo for anyone new to DIY coatings.
The Popular Choice
Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light
This coating has earned its reputation over the years of real-world use. Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light is a favourite among DIYers and professionals alike for its proven performance and durability.
Why it's a classic:
- Been around for years — trusted and tested in Australian conditions.
- 36 Months protection
- Easy enough for experienced DIYers to apply, with results that rival pro jobs.
Crystal Serum Light is for those who want durability, performance, and the backing of a well-known, reputable brand.
Our Pick for Best Performance
Gyeon MOHS
If you're after the best combination of durability, shine, and resistance, Gyeon MOHS is the top-tier choice. It's been a long-time favourite in the detailing community for a reason.
Why it’s the standout:
- Up to 48 Months of protection when applied in two coats.
- Resistant to water spotting and chemical etching.
- Next level water beading, something you truly have to see to believe.
- The first on this list to come with its own applicator pad for ease of use.
It's perfect for intermediate to advanced users who want premium-level results and are comfortable with a slightly more involved application process from a brand known for its constant innovations.
For the truly advanced DIY Detailer
Gyeon Syncro EVO Light
Ready to level up? Gyeon Q² Syncro EVO Light is a premium, dual-layer ceramic coating system offering elite protection and a show-stopping finish.
Why it’s next-level:
- Two-component system for unparalleled longevity and self-cleaning.
- Lasts up to 4+ years, making it the longest-lasting coating on our list.
- Designed for experienced DIYers seeking professional-level results at home.
This is the pinnacle of DIY ceramic coatings — if you have the skill and patience, the results will speak for themselves.
For those looking for specialised coatings for Trims, Rims, Interiors, Matte and PPF finishes, Car Care Products has some amazing choices available for all of the above and more. Subscribe to our socials and Newsletters to keep up to date with specialised product tips and tricks.
How do I get the most out of my DIY coatings?
Your Coating is only as Good as your Prep work
If there’s one rule in ceramic coating, it’s this: preparation is everything. Coatings lock in the finish of your car for years. If your car's finish is as close to perfect as possible, you are locking in those imperfections for the long term.
Here’s what you need to do before any coating goes on:
- Properly wash your car, including a thorough Prewash
- Decontaminate the surface using iron remover & clay bar
- Polish or correct any defects in your car's paintwork (especially recommended for older cars)
- Wipe down with GYEON Prep or a similar product to ensure any lingering residue has been removed.
Post-Coating Care: Keep It Looking Fresher for Longer
Even the best coating needs a little TLC. Here’s how to keep yours performing:
- Wash with gentle, pH-neutral car shampoos or soap
- Avoid automatic brush washes, buffing and polishing as this will just strip the coating off completely.
- Dry with a high-quality microfibre towel to avoid marring
- Using top-up sprays like WetCoat every 2-3 months can also extend the life of your coating
Ceramic coatings are incredible, but they aren't bulletproof. The better you treat your coated car, the longer it will keep turning heads.
Final Thoughts: Is DIY Ceramic Coating Worth It?
Absolutely. DIY coatings are no longer intimidating science projects – they’re smart, efficient and deliver serious results.
For the cost of a weekend, a bit of elbow grease and a small amount of patience, you can protect your car for up to 5 years, reduce future wash times, and enjoy that jaw-dropping gloss every time you hit the road.
Want help choosing the right product or tools? Visit our Car Care Products Australia store online or drop into our Leichhardt or Brisbane showrooms, where our team of detailers are more than ready to help.
Ceramic coating doesn’t have to be complicated – just effective. Let’s get your car looking its best.
