Ceramic Coating Prices — Nelson
Transparent, upfront pricing with no surprises. Select your services below for an instant estimate, or scroll down to understand what goes into the cost.
What Factors Into the Cost of Ceramic Coating in NZ?
Ceramic coating prices vary more than most people expect. Here's what actually drives the number — so you know exactly what you're paying for.
1. Coating level and longevity
The biggest variable. A professional entry-level coating might protect for 1–2 years; our 5-year coating is the most popular balance of cost and performance; and our 9-year professional coating uses a premium product that carries a manufacturer warranty. The product cost alone is significantly higher at the top tier — professional-grade coatings aren't available to the public or non-accredited installers, and the price reflects that.
2. Vehicle size
A small hatchback and a full-size SUV require very different amounts of product and time. We size vehicles into four categories — small, medium, large, and XL — and the price scales accordingly. A large SUV or ute will typically cost 40–50% more than a small car for the same coating level.
3. Paint correction
Ceramic coating is a protective layer — it locks in whatever the paint looks like underneath. If your paint has swirl marks, light scratches, or oxidation, we'll recommend a single-stage polish before coating. This adds time and cost, but it means you're sealing in a clean surface rather than permanent defects. For most cars, a single-stage correction is enough. We assess this during the inspection and will never recommend correction you don't need.
A minor correction is included as standard in our process — the pricing above reflects paint that is in reasonable condition.
4. Paint condition and preparation
Every car gets a full decontamination wash before coating — iron fallout removal, clay bar, and a final panel wipe. This is included in the price. Vehicles with heavy contamination, tar build-up, or particularly neglected paintwork may require additional prep time. We'll flag this during the initial inspection.
What's always included
- ✓ Full decontamination wash
- ✓ Clay bar treatment
- ✓ Panel inspection under dedicated lighting
- ✓ Minor paint correction
- ✓ Professional coating application
- ✓ Curing in your own garage
- ✓ Post-job walkthrough and care instructions
- ✓ Free follow-up clean
Common Pricing Questions
Is the calculator price what I'll actually pay?
In most cases, yes. The calculator is based on our real pricing. The only reason the final quote would differ is if your vehicle needs more prep work than typical — heavy contamination, significant paint correction, or unusual vehicle geometry. We confirm everything before any work starts.
Why is professional ceramic coating more expensive than a DIY kit?
Professional coatings are a different product class entirely. They're not available to the public, require accredited installer training, and bond to the paint at a chemical level that consumer products can't replicate. The product cost alone for a 9-year coating is several hundred dollars — before labour. DIY kits typically last 1–2 years; professional coatings last 3–9 years with proper care.
Do you charge extra for travelling to me?
No travel surcharge within Nelson city, Richmond, or Stoke. Motueka and outlying areas may incur a small travel fee — we'll confirm this upfront when you enquire.
Can I get just the coating without paint correction?
Yes. If your paint is in good condition — particularly on a newer vehicle — correction may not be needed. We'll inspect it first and give you an honest assessment. We won't recommend it if you don't need it.
Why Choose Glossworks?
Professional quality with transparent pricing
Gtechniq Accredited
Accredited installer for Gtechniq Crystal Serum — manufacturer warranty registered in your name.
Mobile Service
We come to you — coating applied and cured in your own garage throughout Nelson and the Top of the South.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. Know what you'll pay before you book — and if anything changes, we'll tell you first.