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Frequently Asked Questions

What is paint correction?

Paint correction is the process of machine polishing your vehicle to remove or significantly reduce swirl marks, oxidation, water spots, light scratches, and other paint defects. The goal is to restore clarity, gloss, and depth while preserving the integrity of your paint.

Will paint correction remove every scratch?

Not always.

Many scratches can be dramatically reduced or completely removed, but deeper scratches that extend through the clear coat cannot be safely eliminated without repainting.

At Aura Surface Works, we prioritize preserving your paint over unnecessarily removing material.

Can you fix deep scratches or missing paint?

We can often improve the appearance of light scratches and minor chips through polishing or a touch-up fill, but scratches that go through the clear coat and expose bare metal or primer can't be corrected by polishing — that damage needs an actual repaint from a body shop. For body work and repaints in Ottawa, we recommend Astra Motors near Findlay Creek, a full-service shop that also handles vehicle sales and mechanical service. Reach them at (613) 822-4748 or astramotors.ca.

What is ceramic coating?

A ceramic coating is a professional-grade protective layer applied to your vehicle's exterior surfaces.

Benefits include:

Enhanced gloss and depth
Excellent water beading and self-cleaning properties
Easier maintenance
UV resistance
Chemical resistance
Long-lasting protection compared to traditional waxes or sealants

Does ceramic coating prevent scratches?

No.

Ceramic coatings are not scratch-proof or rock-chip proof.

While they provide excellent chemical protection and make washing easier, they cannot prevent damage from impacts, improper washing, or abrasive contact.

How long does ceramic coating last?

Longevity depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and storage.

Professional coatings installed by Aura Surface Works are backed by a one-year workmanship warranty, with coverage extendable to up to three years through our recommended bi-annual maintenance inspections.

How often should I wash my coated vehicle?

We recommend washing every 2–4 weeks using a high-quality pH-neutral shampoo such as CarPro Reset.

Regular washing prevents contamination from bonding to the coating and helps maintain its hydrophobic performance.

Can I use an automatic car wash?

We strongly recommend avoiding brush or cloth-contact automatic washes.

These washes can introduce swirl marks and scratches, reducing the appearance of your vehicle.

If hand washing isn't possible, a touchless wash is the preferred alternative.

Do I need to wax a ceramic coated vehicle?

No.

Ceramic coatings replace traditional waxes and sealants.

Routine washing and occasional professional maintenance are all that is typically required.

How long does paint correction take?

Most paint correction services require between one and two days, depending on:

Vehicle size
Paint condition
Number of polishing stages required
Additional services requested

We'll provide an estimated completion time when your appointment is booked.

Can you polish a freshly painted vehicle?

Aura Surface Works follows a strict policy regarding freshly painted vehicles.

We will not compound, polish, ceramic coat, or install paint protection film on freshly painted panels for a minimum of 30 days, or longer if recommended by the body shop or paint manufacturer.

This protects the curing process and your investment.

Do you offer mobile detailing?

Some maintenance and detailing services may be available on-site depending on the location and service requested.

Paint correction, ceramic coatings, and other specialty services are typically completed at one of our dedicated work locations to ensure proper lighting, environmental control, and consistent results.

How much does detailing cost?

Every vehicle is different.

Pricing depends on:

Vehicle size
Paint condition
Service selected
Time required
Additional requested services

How much does headlight restoration cost in Ottawa?

Headlight restoration starts at $150, which includes sanding, machine polishing, and a ceramic sealant for protection. For longer-lasting results, we also offer a PPF option starting at $300. Final pricing depends on the extent of oxidation and your vehicle.

How long does headlight restoration last?

It depends on the protection option chosen. Our ceramic-sealed restoration typically lasts about a year before oxidation starts to return. PPF-protected headlights last significantly longer, usually 3 to 5 years, since the film physically shields the lens rather than relying on a chemical barrier.

Do you offer mobile headlight restoration?

Yes. Headlight restoration is one of the services we bring directly to you, no shop visit required. We serve Ottawa and the surrounding area, including Barrhaven, Richmond, Greely, and Nepean.

Ceramic coating or PPF for headlights, which is better?

Both protect against UV damage and oxidation, but they trade off differently. Ceramic sealant is more affordable and still meaningfully extends clarity, typically around a year. PPF costs more upfront but lasts 3 to 5 years since it's a physical film rather than a chemical coating. We can help you choose based on budget and how long you want the results to last.

Can you restore badly oxidized or foggy headlights?

In most cases, yes. Headlights ranging from light hazing to heavy oxidation can typically be restored through sanding and machine polishing. Damage on the inside of the lens can't always be fully corrected since it isn't accessible from the outside. We'll let you know upfront if a headlight has limitations before starting.

Why is your headlight restoration more than a $60-80 quote?

Cheaper headlight jobs are usually a quick hand-polish that only masks the haze temporarily, often fading within a few months. Our process includes wet sanding to remove the oxidized layer, machine polishing, and a UV-protective seal (ceramic or PPF), which is why the results last a year or longer instead of a few weeks.

Why choose Aura Surface Works?

Aura Surface Works focuses on quality over volume.

Every vehicle receives professional products, careful inspection, and attention to detail. We believe in preserving your vehicle's finish rather than chasing unnecessary correction, and we stand behind our workmanship with transparent policies and honest recommendations.

Our goal is simple: deliver results we'd be proud to put our own name on.

Still Have Questions?

We're always happy to help.

Contact Aura Surface Works for personalized advice, service recommendations, or a no-obligation quote.