How much does ceramic coating cost in Port Stephens?
Ceramic coating at Harford Auto Studio starts from $1,350. Every tier includes full paint correction before the coating is applied.
How much does paint protection film (PPF) cost?
PPF starts from $2,800 for the Track Pack (bonnet, bumper, guards, headlights), $4,500 for the Daily Pack (adds doors and rocker panels), and $7,200 for Full Armour (every painted panel). PPF colour change wraps start from $9,500. All include a 10-year XPEL manufacturer warranty.
How much is window tinting?
Window tint starts from $295 for the Standard package, $495 for Premium ceramic film, and $795 for the Elite (includes windscreen + headlight tint). All come with manufacturer warranty.
How much does detailing cost?
Detailing starts from $295 for our Refresh package, $495 for the Signature Detail, and $895 for the Showroom tier (includes paint correction and ceramic sealant).
What deposit is required to confirm a booking?
We require a 20% deposit to confirm any booking over $500. The balance is paid at handover by bank transfer, debit/credit card or cash.
How long does ceramic coating last?
Our coatings deliver 5 to 9 years of protection depending on the package. Every package includes full paint correction before the coating is applied.
When can I wash my car after a ceramic coating?
Leave the car for 7 days while the coating cures. After that, hand-wash only with pH-neutral soap. Avoid drive-thru car washes — the brushes will damage the coating over time. We provide a full aftercare kit and guide at handover.
Should I ceramic coat a brand new car?
Absolutely — a new car is the ideal candidate. Factory paint isn't perfect: we correct it to its best state, then lock that in for years. The longer you wait, the more contaminants bond to the paint, making correction harder and the coating less effective.
Will ceramic remove existing scratches?
Every package includes paint correction first — light scratches, swirls and hazing are corrected before the coating goes on. Deeper scratches that have penetrated the clear coat may require panel-specific correction or PPF protection instead.
What's the difference between PPF and ceramic coating?
PPF is a clear, self-healing film that physically absorbs stone chips, swirls and scratches. Ceramic coating is a chemical layer that locks in gloss and repels water/dirt — but doesn't stop physical damage. Most premium clients install both: PPF on high-impact panels, ceramic over the top.
Will PPF affect my insurance or resale value?
No. PPF is invisible when installed correctly and removable, so it doesn't change your insured value. Many clients fit PPF specifically to protect resale — the original paint underneath stays in showroom condition for the life of the film.
Can scratches in PPF be repaired?
The XPEL film we use has a self-healing top layer — minor scratches disappear in the sun's heat. Deeper damage may require a panel re-fit, which is covered for 10 years under the XPEL manufacturer warranty.
How do I clean a car with PPF?
Wait 48 hours after install before washing. Use pH-neutral soap and a soft microfibre mitt. Avoid pressure washing within 30cm of film edges. Otherwise treat it like normal paint — the film is designed to handle daily use.
Is window tinting legal in NSW?
Yes — at the correct visible light transmission (VLT) levels. For daily-driven vehicles in NSW, front side windows must allow at least 35% VLT. Rear side and rear windows can be darker. We install to legal NSW standards and confirm specifications at booking.
How long does window tint take to cure?
Don't roll your windows down for 3 to 5 days after install. Small water bubbles during cure are normal — they evaporate as the film sets. Full cure typically takes 7 days in summer, longer in winter.
Will tint affect my reception or GPS?
No. The TerminaX ceramic film we use is metal-free — it doesn't interfere with mobile signals, GPS, satellite radio or keyless entry. Cheaper metallic films can cause signal issues; ours don't.
How long will my car be with you?
Detail: 1 day (9 AM drop-off, 4 PM pickup). Ceramic coating: 2 to 3 days. PPF: 3 to 7 days depending on coverage. Window tint: same-day install on most vehicles. We confirm the exact window at booking.
Do you offer mobile service?
No — all work is completed in our climate-controlled studio at 8 Shearwater Drive, Taylors Beach. The dust-free, temperature-controlled environment is essential for premium coating and film installation.
What areas do you service?
We service all of Port Stephens — Taylors Beach, Nelson Bay, Salamander Bay, Anna Bay, Soldiers Point, Raymond Terrace and Medowie. We also welcome clients from Newcastle and the broader Hunter region.
Do you work on all vehicles?
Yes — daily drivers, weekend warriors, EVs, exotics, and fleet vehicles. From hatchbacks to hypercars. We've worked on everything from Toyota dailies to Lamborghinis across our 500+ jobs.
How do I book a service?
Three ways: call or DM 0409 251 505, message us on Instagram @harfordautostudio, or fill out the contact form on our website. We reply within one business day during Mon-Fri 9-4.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes — branded gift vouchers are available for any service or value. DM us on Instagram or call 0409 251 505. Perfect for new-car gifts, birthdays, or a partner's daily.
What is Harford Care?
Harford Care is our annual care membership program. Three tiers from $45/month, including maintenance washes, coating inspections, member discounts and priority booking.
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