Once I get the new rims on in a week and I clean it I will give you some photos. I have it protected and coated in ceramic and that shine is unbelievable. It really makes me happy. Then I park it at work and come back 8 hours later and it's covered in pollen :(
Coated in ceramic? I am unfamiliar sorry. Very novice in this area.
Basically there are companies like CQuartz, IGL Kenzo, Ceramic Pro that apply basically a harder layer of clear on your car. It makes it easier to wash, makes water bead up on it and protects the clear coat and paint from scratches. It also usually adds a ton of shine to the car. I would just hop on youtube and google IGL Kenzo or CQuartz and have a look. It doesn't last forever but it's pretty awesome. I never use my windshield wipers now as a long as you are over like 60-70KM it will all come flying off.
What did that run to have that completed? Cost wise.
Did you coat the wheels and plastic trim as well? I'm debating doing the self applied ceramic coating because it's lot cheaper but worried once it starts to fade I'm into a whole day of polishing and stuff to remove and re apply. Initially I was looking at some nice sealant + wax you apply every 3 months or so that Reddit auto detailing steered me too. Don't mind doing the waxing work personally find it enjoyable.
Try splash guards too?
Ceramic coating does NOT protect from scratching. It's MARGINALLY harder than clear.
I literally have the same exact bubbling problem, due to the reflectivity and gray skies during the buying process I did not notice it. It's just some very small amount of the front, but you know how that is it's just going to get to become a bigger problem.
Cost me $1,000 for a one stage paint correction and the full ceramic with a five year warranty.
The wheels are done. Plastic trim does not hold onto ceramic very well so I would write that off. If you enjoy waxing you will basically get the same benefits. Since I don't have a house or a driveway I am pretty limited on what I have access to. I would say the results are pretty similar. The only other benefit I have is in the winter snow and ice doesn't really stick. It's kinda cool.
This is all true and I hope I didn't give the impression that it would prevent scratching. I really did it for the water beading effect and the ease of cleaning. The paint correction definitely affects the shine after. The photo in my profile is right after it was done and it already had dust on it for example.