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How Long Does PPF Last? Care & Lifespan Tips

How Long Does PPF Last? Care & Lifespan Tips

If you’re considering adding paint protection film to your vehicle and wondering, “How long does PPF last?” you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through the various factors that influence the lifespan of PPF, ensuring you have all the necessary information before making this valuable investment for your car.

Key Takeaways

  • Paint Protection Film can last between 5-10 years depending on factors such as surface preparation, the installer, the environment, and wear & tear.
  • Professional installation is essential for the maximum lifespan of PPF, while regular maintenance, including post-installation care and cleaning, is needed to preserve its longevity.
  • Signs of discoloration, delamination, or fracturing indicate that it may be time to replace your PPF with a professional replacement process, taking between 1-7 days at costs ranging from $450 – $8,000+, depending on coverage.

What Affects the Lifespan of Paint Protection Film?

The expected lifespan of paint protection films typically spans 5 to 10 years, subject to various conditions. Known for its self-healing properties, paint protection film can repair minor scratches with heat exposure from the sun or a heat gun, though this ability diminishes over time. Some brands offer a warranty, including Onyxhield, our optical paint protection film, which has a 10-year warranty. With any PPF, make sure it is installed by a professional because warranties often contain exclusions and may not be honored if the product is not installed properly. The lifespan can be influenced by a number of factors, such as environmental conditions, how much wear and tear it endures, and the quality of the surface preparation prior to the film’s application. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining your PPF for years to come. Let’s dive into the details.

Surface Preparation

To maximize the lifespan of paint protection film, it’s vital to consider several key factors. Proper surface preparation is crucial to eliminating contaminants that could shorten the film’s life. The expertise of the installer plays a big role in ensuring the film is applied correctly, thereby enhancing its longevity. The installation environment must be controlled to prevent dust contamination. Additionally, the film’s longevity is subject to environmental elements such as UV exposure and extreme weather conditions.

PPF Installer Expertise

Choosing a reputable PPF installer is essential for protecting the longevity of your paint protection film. A professional will prep the paint, ensure a precise fitting, honor warranties, and educate you on the film before returning your car. They are knowledgeable in how to adhere the film securely to your paint while preventing any bubbles or stretch marks that could result in premature peeling off the material.

Having an installer’s certification with certain brands means their warranty claims can be recognized and documented, offering you peace of mind should any problems arise.

The Installation Process

For optimal performance and durability of paint protection film, the installation must be taut and precise. A skilled installer ensures that the film is stretched just right, using a squeegee to smooth it onto the vehicle’s surface, eliminating any air pockets or imperfections.

So, how can you achieve the best possible installation of PPF?

Veteran installers are proficient in using knifeless tape to contour the PPF to the vehicle’s shape accurately, similar to window tinting. They apply a heat gun to warm the film, which activates the adhesive for a secure bond. It’s essential that no residual glue or defects compromise the film’s protective function against harsh contaminants. These specialists execute a flawless installation by steering clear of common installation errors and employing tools like a microfiber cloth for a final polish. Post-heating is also crucial to reinforce the adhesion and ensure a seamless finish, providing your vehicle with a superior level of protection from the elements.

Common Installation Mistakes

It is crucial to recognize the common mistakes that can occur during the professional installation of PPF. For example, insufficient surface preparation may lead to weak adhesion, allowing dirt and debris to become trapped beneath the film, which can cause it to peel or lift prematurely from the paint finish.

Misalignment during the installation process can also have negative consequences, such as causing wrinkles or bubbles to form under the film. This not only makes the film more susceptible to light scratches but may also reduce its overall lifespan. If air bubbles are not properly addressed during the installation, they can create unsightly distortions and significantly diminish the durability of the protective film.

PPF Maintenance For Longevity

Proper maintenance of your PPF post-installation is crucial to preserve its longevity. Similar to how regular oil changes and tire rotations are necessary for vehicle upkeep, PPF requires adequate care. Let’s go into more detail.

Post-Installation Care

Post-installation care is critical for the PPF’s durability. It’s important not to press or touch any air bubbles or moisture under the film, as these should naturally dissipate within two weeks. Picking at the film is also discouraged, as it could jeopardize both the installation and the adhesive’s effectiveness. To allow the film to set properly, avoid exposing your vehicle to water, intense heat, extended drives, or car washes for at least 14 days. Ideally, the vehicle should be used as little as possible, if at all, during the first two weeks to ensure optimal adhesion and protection to enjoy all the benefits of PPF.

Cleaning Your Car With PPF

To maintain the pristine condition of your car’s paint protection film, choosing the right cleaning products and methods is essential. Use a mild PPF cleaner or pH-neutral car wash soap when hand washing your vehicle. Practice good hand-washing techniques to prevent swirl marks. Microfiber cloths are recommended for their softness and effectiveness in capturing dirt without scratching the surface.

Consider using a pressure washer with a suitable nozzle for a deeper clean to avoid damaging the PPF. A pressure washer can help by covering the car with a soapy foam. This makes it easier to wash off the dirt without scratching the film. It’s important to wash and rinse your car in sections to prevent watermarks, ensuring that the water and soap don’t dry on the film, which could leave behind unsightly spots. After washing, use clean microfiber cloths to dry the vehicle thoroughly, which will help maintain the film’s clarity and prevent watermarks.

Applying Ceramic Coating Over PPF

To further safeguard your vehicle, consider the application of a nano-ceramic coating over the paint protection film. This coating acts as an additional shield against abrasions, stone chips, and other external debris. The procedure entails a comprehensive cleaning of the PPF, prepping the area, layering on the coating solution, allowing time for it to cure properly, followed by a meticulous buffing and polishing routine. When applied properly, the ceramic coating can offer extra protection for your paintwork.

When to Replace Your PPF

While paint protection film is durable, it won’t last forever. We’ll go over the main indicators that suggest it might be time to consider replacing your paint protection film.

Signs of Wear and Tear

Signs that your PPF is deteriorating include discoloration, delamination, fracturing, and yellowing. These can result from extended exposure to ultraviolet light, oxidation, or inadequate maintenance. Peeling often occurs when the film has not been applied correctly while cracking is usually due to aging and excessive UV exposure. These are clear indicators that the PPF should be replaced immediately to maintain optimal protection of your paint.

Replacement Process

Work with a professional to replace your paint protection film. The process involves removing the old PPF, surface preparation, possible paint correction, and removing any residual material from the vehicle, followed by applying the new film. The cost of this service can vary based on location and the scope of work, ranging from $450 to as much as $8,000. When performed correctly, this investment can protect your car’s exterior for up to another decade.

Summary

Choosing a paint protection film is a smart way to keep your car’s paint looking new, but you need to take good care of it. Ready to take the next step? Speak to our of our PPF installers about paint protection film cost and options.  Use our Dealer Locator to find the nearest PPF installer and safeguard your vehicle’s paint today!