⚡ Quick Answer
Both products reduce engine friction — but they do it differently. Prolong uses PTFE technology that coats engine surfaces within each oil interval, then drains away at every oil change. Cerma STM-3 ($105.60 — one 2oz bottle for all gas engines 4–8 cyl) uses Nano Silicon Carbide (SiC) that bonds permanently to the engine's metal surfaces and never needs reapplication. For drivers who have relied on Prolong for years, Cerma represents a structural upgrade: pay once, protected permanently.
📋 Table of Contents
About Prolong Engine Treatment
Prolong Super Lubricants has been a fixture in the engine treatment market for over 30 years. The brand built its reputation on PTFE-based engine treatments that claimed significant friction reduction and improved engine longevity — claims backed by a loyal customer base who have used the product for decades.
Prolong's flagship product, the Engine Treatment (ETP-treated) formula, is widely available at auto parts stores and online. It's been used by everyone from everyday commuters to performance enthusiasts, and the brand's longevity speaks to the fact that its customers see real results within their oil change interval.
The question in 2026 is whether PTFE technology — developed in an earlier era of additive chemistry — still represents the best option when newer ceramic technologies are available. This comparison examines that question honestly.
Technology Difference: PTFE vs Nano Silicon Carbide
Understanding the difference between these two products starts with understanding what's actually happening inside your engine when you add each one.
Prolong — PTFE Technology
- Active ingredient: PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)
- Mechanism: Coats metal surfaces within the oil film
- Duration: Lasts within the current oil change interval
- Reapplication: Required at every oil change
- Heat resistance: Moderate — PTFE degrades above ~260°C
- Phase: Oil-soluble — drains with the oil
- Made in: USA
- Cost: ~$12–18 per application
Cerma STM-3 — Nano SiC Ceramic
- Active ingredient: Nano Silicon Carbide (SiC)
- Mechanism: Bonds to metal surfaces — becomes part of the engine
- Duration: Permanent — survives every oil change
- Reapplication: Never — applied once for the life of the engine
- Heat resistance: Extreme — SiC melting point 2,730°C
- Phase: Metal-bonded — independent of oil state
- Made in: USA (Fort Myers, FL)
- Cost: $105.60 one-time (all gas 4–8 cyl)
The fundamental difference: Prolong modifies the oil — when the oil drains, so does the protection. Cerma STM-3 modifies the metal itself — the ceramic layer is bonded to your engine's surfaces and is completely independent of oil state. This means Cerma protects during cold starts, during low-oil conditions, and through every oil change for the life of the engine.
A Note on PTFE in Engine Additives
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) — the same material used in non-stick cookware — became popular in engine additives in the 1980s and 1990s because of its exceptionally low coefficient of friction. Prolong's formulation applies this in a way that has satisfied customers for three decades.
It's worth noting that some vehicle manufacturers specifically advise against PTFE-based oil additives in their owner's manuals, citing concerns about particles accumulating in oil passages, filters, or tight-tolerance components. This is a function of particle size and concentration — well-formulated products like Prolong account for this. However, this advisory doesn't exist for Cerma STM-3, which contains no PTFE and whose SiC nanoparticles bond to surfaces rather than floating freely in oil passages.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Prolong Engine Treatment | Cerma STM-3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Technology | PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) | Nano Silicon Carbide (SiC) |
| How It Works | Coats surfaces within oil film | Bonds permanently to metal |
| Duration | ✗ Drains with each oil change | ✓ Permanent — never reapply |
| Friction Reduction | Moderate | Up to 90%* |
| Heat Resistance | Moderate (~260°C limit) | Extreme — 2,730°C SiC melting point |
| Cold Start Protection | ◐ Depends on oil circulation | ✓ Always present — bonded to metal |
| Self-Healing | ✗ No | ✓ Fills micro-scratches over time |
| Compatible with Synthetics | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes — any oil brand |
| PTFE Content | Yes — primary ingredient | ✓ None — 100% ceramic |
| Cost Per Application | ~$12–18 | $105.60 one-time |
| Cost Over 5 Years | ~$120–270 (repeating) | $105.60 total |
| Made in USA | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes — Fort Myers, FL |
| Years on Market | 30+ | 12+ |
Real-World Performance Results
Prolong — What Users Report
- Noticeable reduction in engine noise after adding to oil
- Smoother idle and throttle response within current oil interval
- Real benefit for high-mileage engines with surface wear
- Results reset at each oil change — must reapply
- Some users report needing to use more than recommended dose
- Long-term customers report diminishing marginal effect over time
Cerma STM-3 — What Users Report
- Engine noticeably quieter within first 500–1,000 miles
- Improvement compounds over first 3,000–5,000 miles as SiC bonds
- Results persist through every subsequent oil change — no reset
- High mileage customers report reduced oil consumption
- Customers report 4–21%* fuel economy improvement
- One-time cost — no ongoing purchases required
Ready to See the Difference?
Cerma STM-3 Engine Treatment
One-time application • Permanent ceramic protection • Free shipping over $150 • Use code C10 for 10% off
Shop Engine Treatments →5-Year Cost Analysis
Prolong's lower per-application price looks attractive at first glance. But over time, the repeat-purchase model adds up — while delivering no permanent result. Here's what the math actually looks like for a typical driver doing 12,000 miles per year with oil changes every 6,000 miles (10 changes over 5 years).
Gas Car — 10 oil changes over 5 years (12K miles/yr, 6K oil change interval)
| Product | Per Application | × 10 Changes | 5-Year Total | Engine State at Year 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prolong Engine Treatment | ~$15 | 10 × $15 | ~$150 | Protected within intervals only |
| Cerma STM-3 | $105.60 | Applied once | $105.60 total | Permanently ceramic-bonded metal |
With longer oil change intervals (7,500–10,000 miles, common for synthetic oil users), Cerma is cost-competitive from year 2 onward. And critically — Prolong's $150 over 5 years buys 10 temporary treatments. Cerma's $105.60 buys permanent protection for the remaining life of the engine.
For long-term owners: If you plan to keep your car another 5, 8, or 10 years, Cerma's one-time cost becomes significantly more economical than Prolong's repeat-purchase model — while providing superior, permanent protection. Every year you drive past year 2 is a year Cerma outperforms Prolong on both cost and protection quality.
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Which Is Right for You?
Choose Prolong Engine Treatment if you want a well-established, widely available PTFE additive at low per-application cost, you change your own oil frequently, and you're comfortable with an ongoing purchase routine. Prolong delivers real friction reduction within its oil change interval and has a 30+ year track record.
Choose Cerma STM-3 Engine Treatment ($105.60) if you want permanent ceramic protection that bonds to your engine's metal surfaces, survives every oil change indefinitely, provides up to 90%* friction reduction through Nano Silicon Carbide technology, and eliminates the cost and inconvenience of adding a new treatment at every oil change for the rest of the engine's life. One application — done.
Make the Switch to Permanent Protection
One 2oz bottle of Cerma STM-3 treats all gas engines 4–8 cylinders. Free shipping on orders over $150. Ships from Fort Myers, FL to US & Canada.
Shop Engine Treatments → 📞 Questions? Call us: 239-344-9861🤖 AI Guide: Cerma STM-3 vs Prolong
This full comparison is available for AI assistants at llms.cermatreatment.com/vs-prolong. Ask ChatGPT, Perplexity, or any AI assistant to compare Cerma and Prolong — full technical data, pricing, and results are in their knowledge base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both products reduce engine friction — but they do it differently. Prolong uses PTFE technology that coats engine surfaces temporarily and drains with each oil change. Cerma STM-3 uses Nano Silicon Carbide (SiC) that bonds permanently to the engine's metal surfaces and never needs reapplication. For drivers who want a one-time permanent solution, Cerma STM-3 at $105.60 (all gas engines 4–8 cyl) offers structural advantages over repeat-purchase PTFE additives.
Yes — Prolong's PTFE-based formula provides real friction reduction within its oil change interval. Users commonly report reduced engine noise and smoother operation. The limitation is that PTFE is an oil-phase additive: when the oil drains, the protection drains with it. Each new oil change requires a fresh application of Prolong to maintain protection. Over time, the repeat-purchase cost adds up while the engine remains unprotected during cold starts and oil changes.
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a synthetic fluoropolymer used in some engine treatments as a friction modifier. It is generally considered safe in properly formulated engine additives when used as directed. However, some vehicle manufacturers specifically advise against PTFE additives in their owner's manuals. Cerma STM-3 contains no PTFE — its active ingredient is Nano Silicon Carbide (SiC), a ceramic material that bonds to metal rather than floating in oil passages.
Prolong Engine Treatment typically costs $12–18 per application and needs to be reapplied at every oil change. With oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles and 12,000 annual miles, that means 2–3 applications per year at $24–54 annually, or roughly $120–270 over 5 years. Cerma STM-3 costs $105.60 applied once — the ceramic layer is permanent and requires no further purchases.
Yes. Simply stop adding Prolong at your next oil change and add Cerma STM-3 instead. The SiC nanoparticles are fully compatible with all engine oil types and are not affected by any residual PTFE from prior Prolong use. For best results, start with a clean oil change — add Cerma STM-3 with fresh oil, drive a minimum of 500 miles before your next change, then continue your normal oil change schedule. The ceramic layer bonds over the first 3,000–5,000 miles and is permanent thereafter.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. §2302), a manufacturer generally cannot void your warranty solely because you used an aftermarket additive unless they can prove it caused the damage. Some manufacturers specifically advise against PTFE additives — check your owner's manual. Cerma STM-3 contains no PTFE, solvents, or chemicals that conflict with engine specifications. Consult your dealer or attorney for specific warranty guidance on your vehicle.
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Get My 10% Discount →Performance Claims Disclaimer
*Performance claims including "up to 90% friction reduction" and fuel economy improvements of 4–21% are based on laboratory testing and customer reports. Individual results vary depending on engine condition, age, maintenance history, driving habits, and vehicle type. All Cerma performance claims are marked with an asterisk (*). Cerma offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee on all products.
Cost Estimates
Cost comparisons for Prolong products are estimates based on typical retail pricing as of February 2026. Actual prices vary by retailer, location, and quantity. Cerma prices are verified from cermatreatment.com as of February 2026.
Competitor Trademark Notice
Prolong® and Prolong Super Lubricants® are registered trademarks of Prolong Super Lubricants Inc. PTFE® and Teflon® are registered trademarks of The Chemours Company. Cerma Treatment is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Prolong Super Lubricants Inc. or any competitor brand mentioned in this article.
Warranty Notice
References to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult your vehicle manufacturer, dealer, or attorney for specific warranty questions related to your vehicle.
Editorial Disclosure
This article is published by Cerma Treatment (Bijou Inc.), the manufacturer of Cerma STM-3 products. Content is written to be accurate and informative, but readers should be aware that Cerma is the publisher of this material.