Gtechniq began in 2001 when our founder, Dr. Drew Gill, a quantum physicist, set out to engineer surface protection that actually performed at a measurable level. Instead of reworking traditional waxes or polymers, he approached automotive surfaces the same way he approached complex materials research. By studying surface energy, durability, gloss retention and chemical resistance, he created a new category of protection based entirely on hard science.

More than twenty five years later, that same scientific approach continues to shape every product in the Gtechniq system.

This guide breaks down the six most important coating technologies in our line C1 Crystal Lacquer, Crystal Serum Light, EXO, C4 Permanent Trim Restorer, C5 Wheel Armour and HALO Flexible Film Coating.

Gtechniq C1 Crystal Lacquer

C1 is Gtechniq’s original ceramic coating. It uses a quartz based structure that bonds directly to paint and cures into a hard, durable layer.

Key Characteristics

• Pure quartz based formula for high hardness
• Excellent resistance to micro marring
• Crisp reflections and strong clarity
• Long term durability

C1 is ideal for single stage paint and softer clear coats and is often used as a foundation layer.

Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light

Crystal Serum Light, or CSL, is our most popular enthusiast level ceramic coating. CSL uses a composite structure that balances hardness with flexibility, giving it strong chemical resistance and a smooth, glossy finish.

What Makes CSL Special

• Composite ceramic matrix for balanced protection
• Strong resistance to wash chemicals and etching
• Slick surface feel with deep gloss
• Excellent real world durability

CSL is the most common base layer for multilayer systems because it delivers high performance with user friendly application.

Gtechniq EXO

EXO is a hydrophobic top coat designed to enhance gloss and provide exceptional water behavior. While CSL and C1 focus on structure and durability, EXO focuses on ease of maintenance and visual impact.

Benefits of EXO

• Very slick feel that helps reduce dirt adhesion
• Intense hydrophobic performance
• Rich gloss enhancement
• Acts as a sacrificial layer above C1 or CSL

EXO can be used alone, but it performs best when paired with a base coating.

Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer

C4 is engineered specifically for exterior plastics and chemically bonds to the material rather than sitting on top of it.

Why C4 Works

• Permanent bond to plastic
• Restores original depth and color
• Long term UV protection
• Maintains factory style matte finish

C4 is perfect for textured trim, mirror bases, fender plastics, vents and wiper cowls.

Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armour

C5 is designed to withstand the high heat and contamination found on wheels and brake calipers.

What Sets C5 Apart

• High temperature stability
• Strong resistance to brake dust buildup
• Suitable for painted, alloy and powder coated wheels
• Makes maintenance easier and faster

C5 is one of the most popular wheel coatings in the detailing industry because of its durability and simplicity.

Gtechniq HALO Flexible Film Coating

HALO is engineered specifically for PPF and vinyl surfaces. Unlike paint coatings, HALO is designed to flex with the film and bond to its unique chemical structure.

Why HALO is Different

• Safe and optimized for PPF and vinyl films
• Enhances gloss and clarity on gloss film
• Maintains the intended appearance on satin and matte film
• Improves hydrophobic performance and surface slickness
• Helps reduce dirt buildup at film edges

For matte PPF, HALO should always be applied to full panels to ensure a uniform finish.

How These Technologies Work Together

Here is a simplified way to understand the full system.

• C1 – Hard quartz based protection for paint.
• CSL – Balanced ceramic coating with chemical resistance and gloss.
• EXO – Top coat for slickness and strong hydrophobic performance.
• C4 – Permanent protection and restoration for exterior trim.
• C5 – High temperature ceramic formula for wheels and calipers.
• HALO – Flexible coating for PPF and vinyl surfaces.

With these six technologies, nearly every exterior surface on a vehicle can be protected long term.

The Gtechniq Heritage

Everything we create still reflects the mindset of Dr. Drew Gill. Our chemistry must be proven, measurable and grounded in real science. That is why Gtechniq coatings are trusted on vehicles ranging from daily drivers to hypercars and concours level restorations.

If you have questions about which system is right for your vehicle, the Detailed Image team and I are always available to help guide the decision.