False! Ceramic coating does not prevent rock chips. A ceramic coating is designed to increase the ease of cleaning and caring for your car’s paint. It is not designed to protect it, despite competitive claims to the contrary that reference 9H hardness. To protect your car’s paint from chipping, try 3M Paint Protection Film (PPF).

A ceramic coating, such as 3M Ceramic Coating, reduces the surface friction of your car’s paint. In simpler terms, it makes the paint more slippery. In so doing, it makes washing away dirt, debris, salt, and other contaminants easier. However, ceramic coating is not a protective layer on top of your car’s paint that would prevent chipping. That is what 3M Paint Protection Film is designed to do.

3M Paint Protection Film, otherwise known as PPF or clear bra, is an 8 mil (.008”) thick clear urethane that is installed on the painted surfaces of your car (hood, fenders, doors, roof, trunk, bumpers, mirrors, etc.) to help prevent paint damage from normal everyday driving. The film is installed by a 3M certified professional and computer-cut based on the year, make, model, and trim level of your car. When done properly by an authorized installer, it is practically invisible and warrantied by 3M Company for ten (10) years.

It is not uncommon to apply 3M Ceramic Coating on top of 3M Paint Protection Film. A double application gives you the best of both worlds. PPF helps to protect your car’s paint from small impact damage while the ceramic coating makes it easier to clean and maintain your PPF. Installing 3M Ceramic Coating on top of 3M Paint Protection Film is one of the best methods of preserving the condition of your car’s paint without sacrificing any 3M Company PPF warranty coverage.

Please note that it is not recommended to apply 3M Ceramic Coating on just any paint protection film. Be sure to ask your 3M Automotive Dealer prior to application.