What are Common PPF Purchasing Mistakes?

Are you thinking about getting paint protection film to protect your vehicle—one of your biggest investments? Here are some tips to avoid the common Paint Protection Film (PPF)—sometimes called clear vinyl wrap—purchasing mistakes I’ve seen people make.

1. Waiting Too Long

The most common mistake is delay. You cannot protect paint that is already damaged. The best time to apply film is immediately after purchasing the vehicle, before the first rock chip happens.

2. Buying on Price Alone

You get what you pay for. If you receive a quality product, excellent customer service, and product education, you’ll never overpay. Cheap installs often mean cheap film that yellows or peels.

3. Paying Large Deposits Upfront

Be wary of shops demanding large deposits long before the work is done. A reputable shop has a schedule and a process, not a cash-flow problem.

4. Falling for the “Bait-and-Switch”

I’m helping a guy out right now who was quoted a name-brand product by another installer, but an inferior product was installed without a consultation. Always verify the brand being installed on your car.

5. Succumbing to Aggressive Sales Tactics

Remember the old adage: Quality always sells itself. If you feel pressured, walk away. We post all our prices online so you know exactly how much paint protection film will cost before you even call us.

6. Not Buying Enough Coverage

For example, a person buys only the “Partial Front” protection but really needs “Full Front.”

Our Guarantee: My recommendation is usually to start with what you are comfortable with. If you realize later that you should have bought the full front end, come back and I’ll “eat” the materials and labor costs of the first job. We’ll simply upgrade you for the difference in price.

7. Misunderstanding the Warranty

Many customers are victimized by unethical sales approaches that blur the line between “warranty” and “life expectancy.” Make sure you understand exactly what is covered (yellowing, peeling, bubbling) and for how long.

8. Hidden Maintenance Strings

Some shops require you to come back for expensive “maintenance washes” to keep your warranty valid. We believe in educating you to care for the car yourself. Learn how to wash your vehicle here with our pro tips on washing your vehicle.

9. Skipping the Research

Not doing research into pricing options or asking for references from other car owners is a gamble. Always read reviews and look for real customer feedback.