PPF aftercare
Paint Protection Film is the best protection available in the industry. So getting it installed on your vehicle and then caring for it afterwards is incredibly valuable over the long term. We will cover that care in this post!
PPF has a 10 year manufacturer warranty so caring for your PPF over the long term can be incredibly important. PPF for the most part is pretty low maintenance but here is our advice.
1. DON’T TOUCH THE FILM AFTER INSTALLATION
It may take several days (at least 48 hours) and up to 2 weeks for the protection film to settle and cure. Try to avoid touching the film for about a week after installation. Don’t worry about some bubbling and other markings during that period. It should go away once curing is complete.
Low temperatures and high humidity could delay the curing process. If you are concerned about an area reach out to our team with pictures and we will advise you.
2. DON’T WASH YOUR CAR IMMEDIATELY AFTER INSTALLATION
While the film is settling and curing, don’t wash your car. This period will most likely only be within the first week. And it is primarily to make sure that no edges come up during the curing period.
3. BE SMART ABOUT CLEANING
Ideally, after installing the film, you should forget about commercial car washes. Yes, giving them up may be tough, but if you want the film to last longer, you need to.
At least, visit these car washes less frequently. Be careful not to use a pressure washer near the edges of the film.
Apply car wash soap using a clean microfiber mitt.
Soak hard-to-clean spots with soap or a cleaner for several minutes.
Dry the Film with a soft microfiber towel.
Never use brushes, terry cloth or paper products to clean your vehicle. They will dull the surface or, in some cases, damage it.
Remove dead bugs and bird droppings immediately. They may leave permanent stains on the film.
Pay special attention to the film’s edges where dirt builds up. If dirt does build up bring it in to us and we can clean it safely without lifting the film.
Never use any abrasive materials.
4. INVEST IN HIGH-QUALITY CLEANING PRODUCTS
Try not to use low-quality car wash soap. It may contain harsh or cheap chemicals that damage the film or dull the surface. Choose shampoos with lubrication additives.
When you buy a microfiber mitt, make sure it’s specifically designed for auto care.
If you decide to wax the film, make sure it doesn’t contain Naphtha or Kerosene with a concentration of over 5%. Avoid waxes with dyes. Better yet avoid this altogether with either a sealant or a Ceramic Coating.
XPEL offers a variety of maintenance products for its films. However, high-quality car maintenance soaps, shampoos, and wax can do an excellent job as well.
5. LIGHT SCRATCHES IN THE FILM WILL SELF HEAL
Give the film 20-30 minutes outside in the heat. In colder conditions, or to accelerate the process, pour hot water (120°F) over the affected area.
6. DETAILING CLAY CAN BE USED TO REMOVE CONTAMINANTS ON THE FILM
If you are a DIY guy or girl then you can clay your PPF. However, keep in mind using clay on any vehicle can mar the surface if it is not done properly. So if you choose to do so on your own, you do it at your own risk.