Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light Review

Now that I’ve started reviewing pro-grade ceramic coatings, I think it’s important for me to test out some products that are top sellers on Amazon. Many car enthusiasts and amateur detailers look for ceramic coatings on Amazon, and that can sometimes lead to people using cheap products that are actually harmful to their surfaces and clear coats.

Is that the case for Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light? That’s what I wanted to find out.

How Strong is the Product?

The first thing I look for in reviewing a new ceramic coating is its tensile strength, which is directly related to how well it repels water and other contaminants. It’s also related to the surface shine – a stronger coating will have a deeper, brighter shine on all exterior painted surfaces.

When I tested Crystal Serum Light (CSL) on my brother’s 2020 Toyota Highlander, I coated half the hood with the coating and left the other half untreated. Crystal Serum Light formed a relatively thick surface coating and the shine was deep and bright.

But application day is only the first test. Through the first 3 weeks I did observe a few scratch and swirl marks on the bumper – and you really shouldn’t get those with the highest quality ceramics. When compared to Nexgen Carbon Flex or Adam’s Graphene Ceramic Coating, I could see a noticeable difference in both the shine and protection. My brother told me he still sees swirls and minor scratches when he washed his car, so overall I will give CSL a 7/10 rating for strength. It’s not in the absolute top-tier, but still provided protection and shine that’s a cut above the worst products and all ceramic spray-on coatings.

How Long Does It Last?

Longevity is a crucial factor for any car detailing enthusiast when testing a ceramic coating. CSL claims to offer an impressive 5 years of protection when applied correctly. This extended protection period positions it as one of the more durable coatings available. However, achieving this longevity requires sticking carefully to the application instructions they say.

Since testing it on the Highlander, it’s been 2 years now and CSL is living up to its longevity claims. It earns a score of 8/10. Even though some minor scratches are visible when you look long enough, still the glossy finish and water beading are there, and it deserves an 8 for them.

Benefits Compared to Competing Products

When pitted against competing ceramic coatings, CSL stands out with many benefits. As a professional-grade product, it manages to deliver 80% of the professional serum’s performance while keeping a more budget-friendly price point. This makes it an attractive choice for both new and seasoned detailers. It costs around $79

In terms of gloss and protection from some contaminants, CSL can be mentioned as a top-tier paint protection solution. Its performance in these critical areas makes it a compelling option in a market filled with various ceramic coatings.

Down-sides of the Product

While CSL excels in multiple aspects, it’s essential to acknowledge potential downsides. The application process demands precision, and even a slight deviation can result in a challenging removal process. The requirement for indoor application and specific temperature conditions might pose practical challenges for users who need access to suitable facilities.

Moreover, the strict adherence to guidelines during the application is a downside for those who prefer a more straightforward coating process. Taking these factors into account plus the scratch issues CSL earned a customer service score of 7/10. Even though the ceramic coating is known for a better visual appearance for your car’s paint and is not as protective from contaminants as PPF.

Customer Service

Customer service is a critical aspect of any product experience, especially for amateurs trying out a ceramic coating at home. For CSL, Gtechniq offers support and guidance, and I was impressed with their helpfulness and deep product knowledge. When you sell mostly on Amazon, it’s important to make sure your customers can navigate the nuances of application and troubleshooting.

While the product itself is solid and strong, having reliable customer service adds an extra layer of assurance for users, especially those who are into ceramic coatings for the first time. Overall I’m giving Gtechniq a 7/10 customer service rating.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Strength and Durability: For CSL could be said that it is one of the strongest and durable professional ceramic coatings available.

Longevity: When applied correctly it can achieve a 3+ year protection in my opinion even though very few ceramics out there can last 5 years. It is one of the best coatings regarding longevity.

Gloss Enhancement: The thick combined ingredient formation contributes to high gloss levels, providing a visually great finish.

Budget-Friendly Professional Grade: Offering a professional ceramic coating at a more affordable price makes CSL a very attractive option for anyone. In some cases, it costs half the price of other professional ceramics.

Cons:

Precise Application: The need for precision during application may be challenging for you if you prefer a more straightforward coating process.

Indoor Application Requirement: The requirement for indoor application and specific temperature conditions might limit practicality for you if you prefer coating your car outside.

Potential Challenging Removal: Incorrect application can lead to a challenging removal process, they suggest you use a 1,500-grit sandpaper.

Would I Purchase It Again?

Considering the overall performance and the delicate balance it strikes between strength, value, and longevity, I would purchase CSL again. The 8/10 value score reflects its competitive pricing compared to other high-end ceramic coatings, making it an attractive option for you if you’re seeking professional-grade results without a hefty price tag

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light proves to be a great option in the world of ceramic coatings. Its strength, longevity, and value make it a valuable addition to any detailer’s toolkit or those caring for their car. While it demands precision during application and comes with specific requirements, the results speak for themselves, establishing CSL as an attractive choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike. So, if you’re looking to elevate your paint protection game, CSL might just be the one solution you’ve been searching for.

Read our comprehensive Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light review to uncover the secrets behind its popularity. Discover the strength, longevity, and value it brings to your car care routine