rosskoss

Paint is pristine and all. What is the first thing you do in terms of protecting the paint and finish?

I don't want to do a wrap or anything...but I do know that some of the automotive detailing products, waxes, protectants etc. have come a long way in terms of capability and performance. Any recommendations as to what I might apply to the car after it's first car wash?

KennyFSU

Ceramic coating is a popular option.

CarSpotter

Nowadays car detailing studios offer nano-ceramics and solid wax that can preserve that paint, but they still won't substitute the film, which lasts longer and has better effect.
If you're concerned about stone chips and scratches on the front bumper, hood, or side mirrors, consider applying a transparent protective film (clear bra) to these areas for added protection - those places are really vulnerable.

BayeauxLex

PPF then ceramic coating

KennyFSU

OP said he didn't want to do a wrap so I didn't suggest PPF, which is basically a clear wrap.

Striker223

Full paint correction, PPF, then top it with ceramic. I would do the nose cone/all leading edges at minimum

mmarshall

Before you do anything else, the single MOST important thing you can do is not to drive on winter-treated roads. Salt, gravel, road-debris, and abrasives are what causes most of the damage.

BayeauxLex

I personally would at least PPF the front.

arentz07

If you don't like rock chips and etching, get PPF. I procrastinated getting PPF indefinitely on my IS 500, and while I try to be careful and avoid rock chip situations, I still have quite a few in my almost-11,000 miles with the car. I decided that it is ok, since my car is not a museum piece. But, I also do wish I had protected it a little better. I may get it paint-corrected later on and deal with it then.

KennyFSU

Oh I wholeheartedly agree and am a huge fan of PPF; just going by the OP's criteria.

BayeauxLex

My last two cars I trailered them back home cause I was afraid of putting them on the highway in fear of rock chips without PPF.

PPF, like that commercial says, “I put that ***** on everything”

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

more important rosskoss, what car did you get?

the topic of your post though is catnip for forums like this, lol

Margate330

Yes sir you are correct!

C'mon, where's the pics?

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

agreed here.

SW17LS

I will not buy another car without a full PPF install on the whole front end. This is the 4th car I have had that done to. If I wind up with a dark colored car next time I am going to have the whole car done.

Then a ceramic coating.