Which PPF to go with?

That looks fantastic!!! Thanks for sharing the pics.

I am expecting to take delivery of a Blizzard Pearl next week and applying film to the bumper is high on my list.

The best shop in my town only does Clear Shield so I will likely go that route. I've had Clear Shield on another car for the last 6 years and it seems to hold up well. No discoloration or other issues so far - although it has picked up some nicks and scratches. I apply Plexxus regularly to the film.

Question - I was considering putting a strip on the rear bumper instead of installing the bumper protector accessory. Thoughts on that?

Question - I like your tint as well, but I am curious what % that is? Looks nice but it looks appears darker than what I can use in Texas.

Thanks!

 

Plexus has been found to discolor film due to its petroleum content. It was only recent that this discovery was made hence the introduction of the ppf specific cleaners and sealants.

I don't know how competitive clearshield is but my understanding is that ppf has changed a lot in the last 5-6 years. The offerings from Xpel and the Nanofusion films are much better than the predecessors. I have Prestige on my 2011 and that is also a newer film.

You can get the rear bumper protectors from Xpel for about $15 and install them yourself.

MB860 ?

 

Thanks for the info!

Fortunately no issues (yet) on the 6 year film.

I would look into other film options, but the best place in town only works with Clear Shield - I would expect improvements have been made over the years.

I will look into the Xpel bumper protector... thanks for the tip!

 

Thanks for the reply... it must be shocking for you to ride in a car with no tint.

 

Wash the film like the paint on the other part of your car, but take extra caution since it is a bit easier to scratch than paint. To prevent scratching, I've gotten in the habit of using only clean wash mitts (I throw mine in the washing machine) and washing the film during the first step of the wash process while the mitt is clean. They do make PPF cleaner but I only use that periodically to "deep clean" the film.

I use a quick detailer to remove bugs after a drive. I usually only do this after a long drive. The quick detailer will remove the bugs but it might leave some smears but this isn't important-- getting the bugs off so they cannot etch the film is most important. Some people recommend using the ppf cleaner for this task but IMO, that is too cost prohibitive.

When you seal the film, buy a couple rolls of blue painter's tape and use it to cover the seams. This stuff will be your best friend. Put the tape over the seams of the clear bra. If I had known about this when I first got the clear bra, it would've saved a lot of trouble. Once you get any dried wax on those seams, it is pretty much game over-- they will not come out. And if you try hard to rub off the wax, you'll scratch the film like I did. Can't stress how important it is to put tape over the seams before waxing...

I'd use the xpel sealant that your installer gave you and apply it after a wash. You probably need to wait about 5 days before washing the film though, so refer to the instructions he gave you. I'd apply the sealant at least monthly, but I do it with my weekly wash. You can get more of the sealant from xpel.com and I highly recommend the stuff.

 

what's the cheapest one you can find and than diy ??

 

My Prius *finally* arrived and picked it up last night.

It was held up for a week awaiting installation of floor mats.

I will be taking it to the shop on Friday for installation of tinted windows and PPF. The shop with the best reputation in town only does ClearShield which is a product from Solar Gard. That is the only window tint product they carry too.

I will have the front bumper, headlights, and entire hood covered.

Question - per my instructions the dealership did not install the front license plate bracket. Regardless there are 2 small dimples in bumper for drilling guides. (see pic)

Is this standard for all US? Any issue for the PPF covering?