Opinions on the Paint Protectioin Film?

Re: Opinions on the Paint Protection Film?

My local dealership told me they would the installing the paint protection here at the dealership. They have yet to fulfill an order with that option, so no one can seem to tell me who does it (an outsourced company or in house) or what the actual coverage is on the vehicle. If Toyota were actually doing the install once it comes into port, prior to shipping to dealerships, I'd bet it'd be a better job than most.

I would want to see another car done by the installer before subjecting my car to the possibility of a poor installation. Have done it once before and that's my lesson learned.

 

Yeah, sorry but I have no faith in the port installers. I also believe Toyota has a pretty large markup in their paint protection film. I say look up independent installers and shop for a good price. When you take your car into their shop, or if they come to you, look at their gear, if they look like a bunch of shade tree mechanics (no offense to those that are) then move on to a professional installer.

The economy is tough all over; I suspect not everyone is spending $800 to add a clear bra to their car. So they key is to negotiate for a price you are comfortable with. This is a 95% labor job. The film is relatively cheap in relation to the total price. You are paying for their time. So, deal accordingly. A clear bra installer quoting $125 per hour is not getting my business unless he shows me a doctorate D) in clear bra installing.

It cost me $400 to do my '05 Prius which covered the front bumper, one half of the hood, mirrors and door edges.

Oh and the dealership miracle paint protectant (wax) is BS.

 

I have only two misgivings about the VentureShield film I had installed. 1. I waited too long.--If possible the next car's first trip will be to the installer. 2. I didn't cover the sides.--I have too many scratches to count on the doors & fenders. The next car is going to be completely covered.

The film shows evidence of a couple of hits that would otherwise have caused damage.

 

I purchased the Paint Protection film. It is guaranteed for 7 years and no waxing is necessary. For the cost, it can be reapplied several times ago through the dealership. Have no idea if it will be worth the price but just the thought of not having to wax for 7 years was a good enough incentive.

 

Just a note, but I would NEVER let Maaco touch my car. Maaco paint jobs last about as long as your drive home from Maaco. I would also never go 7 years without waxing a car, ragardless of whatever the dealer sprays all over it.

 

Warning! Paint protection film (clear bra) offered for $395 by Toyota only covers front 2" of the hood and sides next to the hood. It does not cover any other parts of the front end. I have clear bra on my 335i covering the entire front end of the car and half way up the hood total price $650. At $395 this not a good deal.

 

so basically, if you already took delivery of the car, its too late then?

 

No, the longer the wait the better the chance of getting chips & scratches. Applying the film over the chip will preserve the chip & create an air bubble between the film & lower surface.

 

ok. someone mentioned it was a "port installed" item, so it can be put on by the dealer as well?

i guess i should dig thru the MOUNTAIN of paperwork and see since they did give me something on it.

i am interested in doing something because unlike my SPM which is a bit of an understated color, the blue spectra is just the opposite.

in W WA, we have pollen issues at this time of year that would blow the socks off most areas and after 3 days, my shiny blue actually looks polka dotted up close.

so, not having time to wash at home (not to mention the water ban we have going right now) i took to quicky car wash and i can see i need to do something because i am seeing a hint of swirls from just that one quick trip

 

I'm strongly considering having a very experienced local guy add 3M protection to my P III (Winter Gray) which I should get next week. He buys the 3M in big rolls and custom cuts it. I'll let you all know if I go forward. And if so, post some pics and other details.