2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Protected with Ceramic Coating in Cornelius, NC

Project Details

Vehicle: 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Color: Midnight Black Metallic
Service Type: Professional Ceramic Coating Application
Goal: Enhance gloss, improve long-term paint protection, and simplify maintenance
Installer: Champion Window Tinting
Service Location: Cornelius, North Carolina
Project Area: Lake Norman Region

Why This Toyota Tacoma Needed Ceramic Coating Protection

This brand-new Tacoma TRD Pro had a flawless black finish, and the owner wanted to keep it that way. Between Carolina sun, pollen, and road dust, the factory clear coat just wasn’t going to hold up without help.

What stood out most was how thoughtful the owner was. He didn’t want the biggest or most expensive package, he just wanted the right one. At Champion Window Tinting, we  walked through the options, explained the care process, and focused on what would truly make a difference without overselling anything.

In the end, ceramic coating made the most sense. It delivered what this Tacoma needed: deeper gloss, protection from swirl marks and UV damage, and a slick finish that’s easier to wash and maintain, all without compromising that rugged TRD look.

Ceramic Coating Services Completed on This 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

This project at Champion Window Tinting focused on preserving the Tacoma’s factory gloss and making it easier to care for in real-world North Carolina driving conditions. The owner was looking for real protection that wouldn’t change the appearance, just enhance it. Our team completed a full ceramic coating process that helps shield the paint from everyday elements like UV rays, pollen, and light scratches.

• Full exterior wash and paint-safe surface cleaning
  
  
• Clay bar decontamination to remove embedded contaminants
  
  
• Light polishing to refine the finish and prep the clear coat
  
  
• Ceramic coating applied evenly across all painted panels
  
  
• Final gloss check and panel wipe-down before vehicle delivery
  
  

These steps made sure the coating bonded properly, stayed visually clean, and delivered the kind of long-term durability the owner expected from Champion Window Tinting.

Our Process for Ceramic Coating This 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

This Tacoma came in looking sharp, but like every new vehicle, it still needed a full prep before the ceramic coating could do its job right. Black paint is unforgiving, it shows everything. So we took the time to walk through each step carefully. Nothing rushed. No shortcuts. Just the way we’ve always done it.

Step 1: Contact Wash and Decontamination

At Champion Window Tinting, we started with a contact wash using a pH-neutral shampoo, two-bucket method, and soft microfiber mitts. The goal was to strip away surface dust, road film, and any light residues from transport or dealership prep. Even with low mileage, new trucks often arrive with contaminants already sitting on the clear coat.

Once clean, we applied an iron remover across the lower panels, doors, and tailgate to eliminate embedded metallic particles that aren't visible but can interfere with coating performance. After that, we went over the entire body with a clay bar, working in straight lines with plenty of lubrication to pull up any remaining grit the wash didn’t catch.

This step leaves the surface smooth and completely bare, essential for the coating to bond properly.

Step 2: Paint Inspection and Machine Polish

Under LED shop lighting, we inspected every panel from multiple angles. The black paint on this TRD Pro was in good shape overall, but there were light swirl marks on the doors and faint marring on the tailgate, likely from automatic washes or towels used at the dealership.

To correct that, we performed a light one-step polish using a dual-action polisher paired with a soft foam finishing pad. This wasn’t about heavy correction,  just refining the surface for better gloss and clarity. We masked off badges, rubber trim, and edges to avoid contact with the polisher and kept our movements controlled to avoid heat buildup.

After polishing, we wiped each panel down with a dedicated panel prep solution to remove all remaining oils and dust. The truck now had a uniform, swirl-free finish, ready for coating.

Step 3: Coating Prep and Application

With the paint fully prepped, we moved to the coating stage. We used a high-solids professional ceramic coating designed for long-term durability, UV protection, and enhanced hydrophobic behavior.

Application was done one section at a time. Each panel was coated using a suede applicator in crosshatch patterns to ensure even coverage. After allowing a short flash time, we leveled the coating using a clean, folded microfiber towel. We inspected for streaks or high spots immediately, then followed with a secondary leveling towel to leave a crisp, clean finish.

We coated all painted surfaces, including the hood, roof, fenders, bed sides, tailgate, and even small trim areas. Each section was given time to settle before moving on, and nothing was rushed.

Step 4: Final Curing and Gloss Check

Once the application was complete, we allowed the coating to cure in a controlled indoor environment. During this time, we avoided unnecessary touching or contact with the panels.

After the coating had time to bond, we completed a full gloss check under multiple light sources, checking panel transitions, door edges, and tight corners to confirm everything cured evenly.

We removed masking from trim, wiped down the windows, cleaned any residue from emblems, and dressed the tires for a clean, finished look.

By the time we were done, the Tacoma’s black paint had taken on a rich, mirror-like shine, slick to the touch and protected from the daily wear it will see in North Carolina roads and off-road trails alike.

Final Result – A Clean, Deep Gloss and Protection That Lasts

Once the ceramic coating settled, this black Tacoma took on an entirely different presence. The finish was smoother, deeper, and noticeably richer than when it rolled in. Every panel had that crisp, glossy reflection you can only get from proper prep and a professional coating.

The owner immediately noticed how much cleaner the truck looked and how the paint had that slick, just-detailed feel, without needing weekly washes. Swirl marks were gone, water now beads instantly, and the surface is protected from UV rays, road dust, and the everyday elements that wear down black paint fast.

Now fully coated by Champion Window Tinting, this Tacoma is ready for daily driving, weekend trips, and everything in between, with a finish that’s built to last.

Client Review — Verified Google Feedback

I had a great experience with Ed when I got ceramic coating done for my car. He took the time to clearly explain what my car needed and what I should (and shouldn’t) do to take care of the coating. I really appreciated that he didn’t try to upsell me on more expensive packages, but instead focused on what made the most sense for me. Professional, honest, and knowledgeable — highly recommended!”

Review link  : 

The feedback says it all. From start to finish, this project was about delivering real value without pressure. Clear communication, transparent recommendations, and honest results, that’s what we aim for every time at Champion Window Tinting.

Why Champion Window Tinting Is Trusted Across Lake Norman
Over 20 Years of Hands-On Experience

We’ve been protecting vehicles in Cornelius and surrounding areas since 2001. With two decades of real-world knowledge, we understand what ceramic coatings need to hold up against Carolina heat, humidity, and daily driving. Our process is never guesswork. It’s proven, panel by panel.

Certified Ceramic Coating Installers

Every ceramic coating at Champion Window Tinting is installed by trained, certified professionals. We follow industry standards and use premium tools and prep systems to ensure proper bonding and finish. No rushed jobs. No compromised results.

Transparent Service, No Upsells

Our work speaks for itself. And so do our clients. We take the time to explain what your vehicle actually needs and help you avoid unnecessary upgrades. This Tacoma project is a perfect example. No pressure. Just honest protection that fits the vehicle and your goals.

Locally Owned and Trusted Since 2001

We’re not a mobile crew or pop-up detailer. We’re a family-owned shop with a physical location in Cornelius and a reputation built on consistent, high-quality work. From Huntersville to Mooresville, drivers know us by name and trust us with their vehicles year after year.

Other Services Available at Champion Window Tinting

• Paint Protection Film (PPF)
  
• Ceramic Coating
  
• Automotive Window Tinting
  
• Commercial Window Tinting
  
• Residential Window Tinting