Frequently Asked Questions About Paint Protective Film (PPF)

You've got questions about paint protective film. We've got answers. Check out this roundup to get clarity about PPF options and services.

Buying a new car has always been a significant investment, but new vehicles cost more today than ever before. If you want to get yourself a new ride, you'll have to spend around $47,000 on average.

After spending so much money, you'll want to keep it looking pristine as the day you bought it. Few things can ruin the pleasure of rolling around town in a new car like an ugly scratch or ding.

The good news is cosmetic damage is entirely preventable thanks to paint protective film technology. Paint protection film (PPF) can keep your car looking brand new for years.

Read on to have all your PPF questions answered.

What is Paint Protection Film?

Paint protection film is a polyurethane layer applied to your car's paint work. It's entirely transparent, so it won't change the way your vehicle looks.

This technology, also known as a clear bra, can prevent cosmetic damage incurred from road debris. Minor scratches and dings will be a thing of the past. However, you should keep in mind that PPF won't protect your car from serious damage.

PPF also keeps your car safe from the elements. It stands up to rain, snow, hail, and the sun's UV rays. These kinds of things all affect the integrity of your paint.

Where Can I Apply Paint Protection Film?

You can apply these paint protective products to virtually any painted surface of your car. This includes the hood, the roof, and your fenders.

When you install PPF, you'll want to cover the high-impact areas like the front and rear fenders, the hood, side-view mirror housings, and your side panels. These areas are most susceptible to damage from road debris.

You can also cover your headlights with paint protection film, although some detailers might recommend against it.

How Much Does PPF Cost?

The total cost of applying paint protection film depends on a few variables. Expect to pay around $1,000 on the low end and up to $8,000 on the high end.

The factors that affect the price include how much of your car you wish to cover with PPF and the kind of film you use.

If you decide to cover your entire car, it'll be more expensive than just covering your high-impact areas. Higher-end films also cost more than low-quality films but provide much more advanced protection. 

Can I Remove PPF?

Paint protection film can be removed without damaging your car's paint job. The process is simple but fairly labor-intensive. For best results, take your car to your detailer and have the work done professionally.

How Long Does PPF Last?

Like its cost, the longevity of your PPF depends on a few factors.

The first is its quality. Low-end PPF can last for a few years, but you'll get up to ten years of use out of a high-quality PPF. 

Another factor that affects the lifespan of your paint protection film is your driving habits. If you regularly drive down poorly-maintained roads kicking up rocks and other debris, your protective system won't last as long as it would in ideal conditions.

Does Paint Protection Film Fix Itself?

You may have heard PPF referred to as a "self-healing" film. If a scratch isn't deep enough to fully penetrate the film, it will return to its original state.

This happens at the microscopic level when the PPF is exposed to heat. Paint protection film has elastic qualities, and heat causes the particles that compose it to return to their lowest energy state. In the case of PPF products, it's flat and smooth. 

Can I Wash My Car After Applying PPF?

You should absolutely continue to wash your car after PPF installation, but you'll have to keep a few key things in mind.

PPF takes about a week to fully adhere to your vehicle, so you'll want to wait at least that long before washing your car. If you don't you run the risk of ruining the application.

You should also avoid using abrasive cleaning chemicals. These can damage the paint protection film. 

Hand-cleaning with a microfiber cloth is the preferred way to wash a car with a paint protection film, but you can also use a pressure washer. Just take extra care to avoid directing the spray at the edges of the film.

Does PPF Have a Warranty?

Many paint protective products feature a manufacturer's warranty. LLumar Platinum Paint Protection Film comes with a ten-year warranty, which provides plenty of peace of mind.

What Problems Will Paint Protection Film Experience?

Some PPF products experience yellowing and peeling, but you can take steps to prevent them from happening. You also may experience issues if you attempt to install PPF on your own.

The yellowing found on PPF comes from using inferior adhesives. Over time, the sun causes the adhesive to oxidize, which leads to the unpleasant yellowing effect.

Avoid yellowing by opting for a high-quality PPF product like the one offered by Llumar. Their acrylic adhesive won't oxidize.

Peeling is another issue that plagues some paint protection film installations. Low-quality films struggle to stick to your car and will eventually begin peeling away from the paint. Air bubbles may also form underneath the layer of PPF.

The best way to avoid any problems with your clear bra installation is to have it installed by a professional automotive detailing shop. They'll do the job right, so you won't have to worry about peeling, air bubbles, and falling victim to poor-quality materials.

Keep Your Vehicle Safe With a Paint Protective Film

Paint protective films will protect your car from cosmetic damage, helping it retain its showroom beauty. Over the years, it will prove to be a worthy investment.

Some PPF products experience issues, but you can avoid those by opting for a premium film brand like Llumar and hiring a professional detailer to install it.

Ready to get your paint protection film? Sunstopper Window Tinting, a Llumar Select Pro detailer, is here to serve you. With the best PPF material on the market, you'll drive with confidence knowing your car is protected. Schedule an appointment today.