Why can't I use an automated car wash?

Automated car washes — including touchless options — use harsh alkaline and acidic chemistry strong enough to strip ceramic coatings, plus abrasive brushes that cause physical marring. Using one will void your warranty and may require full paint correction and re-application to restore.

What about bird droppings and tree sap?

Remove these within 48 hours. While a ceramic coating provides strong initial resistance, extended contact allows the acids in these contaminants to etch through the coating and into the clear coat beneath. Rinse or carefully wipe them off as soon as you notice them.

What pH-neutral shampoos do you recommend?

We provide a detailed care guide with your coating that includes recommended pH-neutral shampoo brands, specifically formulated not to strip ceramic coatings. Following the guide is important for keeping your warranty valid.

Do ceramic coatings protect against scratches and rock chips?

Your coating will protect against mild scratching or marring during routine washing, but it's not designed to guard against substantial impacts. For rock chip and scratch protection, Paint Protection Film (PPF) is the recommended solution — we're happy to advise on combining both.

Can I wax or seal over my coating?

No. Ceramic coatings are the top layer of protection — adding wax or sealant on top can interfere with performance and will void your warranty. Use only the approved maintenance products listed in your care guide.

What warranty does SQKY provide?

SQKY provides an in-house 12-month warranty, inclusive of a complimentary 12-month performance inspection. All SQKY ceramic coatings are also backed by a 4-year performance rating from the manufacturer.

How is SQKY's warranty different to a manufacturer warranty?

Most manufacturer warranties require you to navigate complex claim forms, provide extensive maintenance records, and wait weeks for a decision — with claims denied the vast majority of the time. SQKY's guarantee means we come to you, inspect the coating ourselves, and re-apply it if needed. No runaround — just local accountability.

What happens during the 12-month inspection?

We visit your location and perform a visual inspection of the coating's hydrophobic properties and overall condition. This does not include washing or detailing work — it's purely to assess coating performance.

What if the coating fails the inspection?

If we determine the coating has failed due to a product defect or installation issue, and you've maintained it in accordance with the care guide, we'll re-apply the affected panels at no cost to you.

Making a Warranty Claim

Before we can assess the coating, we need to decontaminate the surface to ensure we're evaluating the coating itself — not surface contamination masking the result. If the coating is assessed to be performing as expected, our decontamination wash is $250.

What if I don't complete the 6-month decontamination?

We highly recommend a 6-monthly decontamination wash. Bonded contaminants left untreated degrade the coating's performance over time, and we may require evidence of regular maintenance for any valid warranty claims. We offer a decontamination wash service for $250.

What if I miss the 12-month inspection window?

You can still schedule an inspection, but it may no longer be complimentary. Contact us and we'll work out a time that suits.

Can I extend the warranty beyond 12 months?

Not currently — but consistent maintenance (regular hand washing and 6-month decontamination) will keep your coating performing well for up to 4 years.

What if I sell the vehicle?

The warranty is specific to the original client and vehicle combination and does not transfer to a new owner.

Can I make a claim if I move to another city?

SQKY's warranty is valid within Melbourne metro only. If you relocate interstate, we may be able to recommend a trusted detailing partner for inspection purposes — however, any re-application would need to occur in Melbourne where we're based.