Paint protection film (PPF) for your car: is it worth it?
Paint protection film (PPF) is a transparent layer placed over parts of a vehicle that are vulnerable to chips, rocks and other road debris.
PPF was developed during the Vietnam War by US firm 3M - after it was tasked by the US government to make a film to protect helicopter rotor blades from shrapnel and other debris.
Also known as 'helicopter tape', PPF is made of urethane. The original tape was not designed to improve the aesthetics of helicopters - in fact it lent them a dull, cloudy appearance.
Other general names for PPF:
Car Scratch Protection Film
Rock Chip Protection
Clear Bra
Clear Mask
Invisible Shield
Clear Wrap
Why might I invest in PPF?
Regular motorway driving
Driving on a road with loose chips/gravel is far more damaging at high speeds than lower speeds. If you often drive on the motorway, your bodywork may benefit from paint protection film.
If you live near poor roads/tracks
Paint protection film may be a good option if you live near poorly-maintained roads with gravel, chips and other debris on them, or if you often drive on gravel tracks - perhaps because you live in a rural area.
Self-healing properties
PPF products have "self healing" properties: if your film gets scratched, you can apply a little heat (such as from a hair dryer) and the unwanted marks will vanish. This feature is possible due to the use of elastomeric polymer on the surface of the PPF, which as well as possessing self-healing properties, helps mold and seal over the bodywork.
Film configurations for your driving style
Film types/configurations can vary depending on your driving style/environment. Protection film may be placed on the bonnet and on high traffic areas such as wing mirrors - or it may be placed on the entire surface area of a vehicle.
Choosing which parts of the car to cover
If you don’t opt for full-vehicle PPF, you might choose which areas to protect, including: side mirrors, leading-edge bonnet; full bonnet; bumpers; rocker panels, fender panels; door handle cavity; and boot ledge.
It's not just rocks and chips...
Today’s PPF also protects against threats like acid rain, UV exposure, bird droppings and mineral deposits.
Is there normally a warranty for PPF?
Most paint protection film comes with a 10 year warranty.
Some of the main PPF brands are:
Suntek paint protection
Xpel Ultimate
Xpel paint protection film
Llumar Platinum
3M Pro Series line
Is PPF the same as vinyl coverings?
Vinyl is a heavier material that affords more protection, but it is not as transparent as PPF and cannot self-heal.
What paint protection film won't do
It probably won't enhance your vehicle's shine, although it won’t diminish it either. Such a product is also unlikely to help keep your car clean any more effectively than having an unprotected paint job.
Can I fit PPF myself?
While there's no reason why you can’t attempt to fit PPF by yourself, hiring an experienced PPF fitter will help ensure the final finish looks smooth and professional.
How much does it cost?
In the US PPF application services cost from $1500 to $4,000, depending on the make and model (i.e shape and size). For example, a Lamborghini Aventador will take longer to cover in PPF than a Mini!