Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install paint protection film myself?
The manufacturer strongly recommends that paint protection film be installed by a fully trained and certified, professional certified installer. These are skilled certified installers in applying the film around compound curves, challenging grillwork, wheel openings, bumpers and all other areas on today's vehicles.
How can I get additional information about paint protection film?
Many professional certified installers have extensive experience and can answer your questions or browse this website for information on paint protection film.
Will paint protection film harm the painted surface if the film is removed?
If the film is properly applied to a fully cured painted vehicle, it can be removed, usually in one piece, without damaging paint surfaces beneath the film.
Can paint protection film be applied over a vehicle that has had the paint touched up?
The manufacturer recommends that any repainted surfaces on your vehicle be professionally painted and fully cured before applying paint protection film. If you have touched up scratches or chips with a tube of "touch-up" paint and then apply paint protection film over it, the film will protect that area until it is removed. If the paint protection film is removed, it is possible that the area around the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off.
Will the paint smear if paint protection film is applied over a newly painted vehicle?
The paint on a newly painted vehicle must be cured according to manufacturer's recommendations. Your body shop should be able to provide you with this information.
Can you paint or apply a clear coat over the paint protection film?
No, this is not recommended and is at your own risk. Film is supplied with an OEM-approved clear coat which is not formulated to be over-printed, painted or clear coated.
Can I cover the whole vehicle with paint protection film?
It is possible, but the application would be difficult and expensive. This product is really intended for the most vulnerable areas of the vehicle.
Can paint protection film be applied over graphics?
The clear film will not interfere with vinyl or painted graphics and is designed to match the gloss levels of today's automotive factory clear coat paint systems, providing virtually invisible protection. However, if the paint protection film is removed, damage may occur to the underlying graphic during the removal process.
Does paint protection film stick to bumpers?
Yes.
Does paint protection film stick to plastic?
Yes.
Can paint protection film be used on signs?
The film would probably stick, but you would need to test any specific application. The manufacturer has no specific testing data for signs, so no warranty can be offered.
Does paint protection film resist yellowing?
Yes, it resists yellowing because the film is constructed of thermoplastic urethane, a tough, conformable material that is covered by a clear coat layer. The film and clear coat layers contain UV protectants to counteract harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause yellowing.
Does paint protection film come in colors?
Paint protection film is available only as a clear film. This feature makes the film virtually invisible while protecting the beauty of your vehicle.
How is paint protection film maintained?
Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 48 hours. Washing after that time presents no problem, and no special care need be taken for the film.
Can I use wax over paint protection film?
Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft cloth. Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used.
If paint protection film is removed from the vehicle, can it be re-used?
Once the film has been applied and set, the adhesive will not stick a second time.
After paint protection film has been removed, how do I get any excess adhesive off my vehicle?
If any adhesive remains on the vehicle after removal of the film, it can be removed by using 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner (3M Part #08984), according to the package directions.
What is the paint protection film warranty?
3M warrants that paint protection film, installed after November 1, 2003, will be free of defects in materials and manufacture — including yellowing, bubbling, or cracking — for five (5) years from date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to damage caused by misuse, accident, misapplication, or ordinary wear, nor does it apply to dents caused by physical impact of rocks or road debris.
Xpel Technologies Corp. warrants Xpel Protection Film to be free of any manufacturing or workmanship defects for seven (7) years from the date of purchase. The warranty does not cover damage to Xpel Protection Film caused by erroneous application, accidents or collisions, intentional misuse or ordinary wear, nor damage, dents or chips to the protected surface or film caused by impact of rocks or any other debris.