Drive & Shine: Best New Car-Care Products of 2020

It should come as a surprise to absolutely no one that automotive culture has—and continues to—greatly benefit from the Age of Information. Technological innovation allows us to go faster and further than ever before, with the added bonus of burning less fuel in the process. But did you know that these advancements also hugely impact how we clean our cars?

It’s true! Never before have professionals and weekend warriors had access to such space-age level cleaning products to correct and protect their rides—and it continues to evolve every day. “Nearly all of our experts agree that the marketplace is experiencing technology-driven changes that are occurring at breakneck speed,” writes Douglas McColloch, SEMA News Senior Editor. “Two trends that have driven the marketplace in recent years have been the continued popularity of vinyl wraps—which allow owners to make a statement at a fraction of the cost of a custom paint job—and the proliferation of silicon-based (e.g., ceramic) coatings and clear films as alternatives to traditional wax-based applications.”

We chatted with professional vinyl wrap restylers a few years ago when we saw custom wraps beginning to grow in popularity. (Check that out here.) Today, we’re taking a look at five of the best new car-care products of 2020. As you could guess, ceramic coatings dominate the list.

What’s the Deal with Ceramics?

First things first, why the obsession with ceramic coatings? Well, if you’re an auto enthusiast—and you haven’t been living under the rock the last few years—chances are you’ve heard quite a bit about the advancements in this area. In fact, at each SEMA show, we see more manufacturers jumping on board, with big brands all offering a special formula for ceramic coatings.

While each brand has its own kind of ceramic coating, most are SiO2 based. Let’s take a minute to unpack what that means.

SiO2 refers to Silicon dioxide, also known as silica, which is often found in nature in the form of quartz. Silica-based sealants act differently than traditional wax, explains Rod Authority. “Once they’re applied and have cured, silica-based sealants are extremely resistant to water, soap, and of course, environmental pollutants. This is because they actually bond with the painted surface”—unlike wax, which just sits on top. This bonding makes them more durable, as they can stand up to harmful UV rays, environmental contaminants (think: air pollution and acid rain), and harsh soaps.

Additionally, these silica-based ceramic coatings are really easy to apply. In fact, most require little more than a spray-rinse-dry application. This, combined with their affordability and higher durability, has many users saying traditional waxes are obsolete. (However, if you’re a fan of old-school car-care products and genuinely enjoy a Saturday afternoon spent waxing your classic ride, I wouldn’t be too worried about them being pushed out of the market just yet.)

Best New Car-Care Products of 2020

Okay, enough chit chat, let’s jump into some of the top NEW detailing products and hit a few notes on why you should consider picking up one (or all) next time you hit the auto parts store.

Adam’s CS3 Ceramic Infused Spray Coating

In addition to silica-based coatings entering the market, we’ve seen another trend emerge over the last few years, as well: consolidating several products and purposes into one application. Adam’s CS3 does just that—cleaning, shining, and protecting—for a true all-in-one experience. Additionally, this product is a waterless wash, which not only makes it easier to use, but also well-suited for drought-stricken areas where hosing down your ride can earn you a hefty fine.

Designed to be used on coated and uncoated vehicles, Adam’s CS3 “cuts through dirt, dust, grease, and grime” to “add depth, gloss, slickness, and clarity,” advertises the company. We also like that it offers quick clean-up and reliable hydrophobic performance, at a super affordable price. Plus, it’s made in the USA! Pair it with Adam’s bright blue waffle-weave Waterless Wash Towel for the best application.

Mothers CMX 3-in-1 Polish and Coat

As you know, Mother’s swings quite a big stick in this industry—and has for some time. The brand is no newcomer to ceramic coatings, introducing its CMX line of ceramic washes, preps, polishes, and coatings over a year ago. However, Mothers recently entered the all-in-one game as well, adding its CMX 3-in-1 Polish and Coat to the roster.

Now, detailers know that there are no miracle products. Even as good as ceramic coatings are, they still require some prep work before being applied. This product simply makes ease of the process, saving you the hassle of sorting through different applications to tackle those steps.

Mothers CMX 3-in-1 uses cutting-edge abrasives to remove minor imperfections and scratches on any coated or uncoated painted surface. It also lays down a special, high-powered acrylic SiO2 ceramic foundation for optimal coating adhesion and a lasting bond. This helps protect against future contaminants. “Best of all, this formula does not contain waxes or oils that negate surface adhesion, so coatings can be applied immediately after use,” adds the company. “Use independently or follow with Mothers CMX Ceramic Spray Coating to further enhance your paint’s color, gloss, clarity and ceramic protection.”

Chemical Guys 3-Some Hydro Line Kit

Chemical Guys has been turning out some of the best detailing and car care products in the industry since 1998. They advertise themselves as “more than just a brand,” and they’re not exaggerating. With a worldwide following, insanely robust product line, hundreds of how-to videos, and their own learning facility called Smart Detailing University, these guys have created a lifestyle. Which brings us to another trend emerging in the car-care industry: appealing to Millennials.

“For a variety of reasons, the car-care market has become something of a generational phenomenon,” writes SEMA News in its 2016 check-in with the segment’s growth. “Marketing campaigns, product placement, and car shows all point to the idea that a Baby Boomer spending hours in his garage working on a ’57 Chevy is the classic customer. In an effort to break that stereotype and acquire new customers, some companies are working on solutions to accommodate consumers that extend beyond the parameters of the classic-car owner, aiming at a relatively untapped market—the Millennial generation.”

Popular with beginners and professionals alike, Chemical Guys are big on crafting “solutions” rather than formulas. Their new 3-Some Hydro Line kit is the only bundle to make our list.

Tying together the company’s Hydroslick, HydroCharge and HydroSuds, this comprehensive bundle delivers “epic water beading, brilliant crystalline shine, and durable protection,” says Chemical Guys. Simply prep the surface, apply the HydroCharge ceramic spray coating and buff to a shine. After that cures, use the HydroSlick to seal the pores of your car’s paint and create a durable shield against water spots, UV rays, and Mother Nature herself. Then you simply maintain that superior shine with the gentle HydroSuds Ceramic Car Wash Soap.

IGL Coatings Ecoshine Renew F4

Okay, let’s put the ceramic thing to rest. IGL Coatings is a brand that many casual detailers might not know. However, most professionals will tell you that while a bit pricier, the quality and innovation coming from this top-tier Malaysian-based coating specialist is worth the few extra dollars.

Unlike those who are perfecting the art of ceramic protection, IGL is taking a different route. Up to this point, fans of the Ecoshine lineup have had access to the F1 Compound, F2 Polish, and F3 Finish. Now, IGL offers the fourth entry, the F4 Renew.

This product is a graphene-infused nano solution that refreshes body paint without stripping away all the layers. (IGL says that you can even try it out on vinyls and wraps.) While the Ecoshine Renew can be used with the other products in the F Series for better performance, it works as a standalone as well, improving hydrophobicity and increasing the smoothness of paint in just one step.

Meguiars M122 Surface Prep

Coatings, coatings, coatings. What about removing polish residue and compounds?

Just because you apply a good coating doesn’t mean you automatically get the best results. Shine, quality, and durability are all characteristics that rely on prep work. Missing even the smallest detail can drive you absolutely nuts when you’re looking to get the perfect sheen off your ride. So why not set yourself up with a proper surface prep to help guarantee that luster you’re looking for?

Meguiars M122’s versatility comes from its ability to function as a safe pre-paint corrector that removes contaminants, as well as an inspection spray that reveals your car’s true paint condition so you can easily spot defects. “M122 also acts as a lubricating agent that will quickly and safely remove all compound and polishing residue and oils,” explains Meguiars. Cost-effective and easy-to-use, “this is the ideal product to safely strip the surface and leave the finish completely bare so you can obtain maximum adhesion for ceramic coatings or touch-up paint.”

What’s your take on these new car-care products of 2020? Let us know in the comments.