Exposing the truth: myths about paint protection film (PPF) busted

Some car modifications add to the visual appeal of a car, some are implemented to enhance its longevity and incremental improvements. However, one of the more interesting options for the latter is paint protection film (or PPF), which is becoming an increasingly popular option amongst car enthusiasts.

At its core, a paint protection film is applied to a car to help protect not just its exterior paint, but also against scratch marks, dirt, grime, and other such substances. At this point, it should be noted that PPF is not the same as  getting your car vinyl wrapped. A PPF’s primary job is to provide an added layer of protection to your car’s paint job, so that you can retain its shine and lustre for an extended period.

Given all that, the concept of applying PPF to your vehicle is still in its infancy in India. By that, we mean that there is a lot of misinformation about the process behind its application, its benefits and disadvantages, how much a PPF should cost, and even whether it’s a good investment for your car. In our guide to everything worth knowing about paint protection film, we will run through its pros and cons, bust myths, and dive into the real, everyday benefits of the protective film for your car.

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What is paint protection film (PPF)?

Paint protection film is a thick transparent layer of urethane that is applied on top of the body panels to protect the paint underneath. Urethane is a widely-used polymer throughout the automotive and practically every other industry. Modern cars have urethane bumpers, as well as urethane insulation, seals, and even interior components. The material is strong, flexible, chemically stable, and resistant to UV degradation. When applied, PPF becomes a second skin to the body panels of your car, protecting the paint against damage like scratches, dings, and paint chips, as well as UV and chemical erosion.

A point to keep in mind is that while paint protection film is not 100% invisible, it is virtually undetectable once it is applied to a car. It is also worth noting that it will not change the car’s original colour, and also that it can be removed at any time. A PPF’s primary goal is to help keep your car’s paint looking new as long as possible, and also to protect the metal body from minor scratches.

Common myths about paint protection film

Paint protection film is an aftermarket add-on to your car, designed to enhance the car’s visual appeal by increasing the longevity of the paint’s lustre. However, over time, there are many  misconceptions about PPF for cars. While some are valid, other misconceptions are wide of the mark. Regardless, here are the most common myths regarding paint protection films (PPF):
1) PPFs are expensive: As with anything worth having on your vehicle as an aftermarket add-on, applying a PPF will cost you. While PPFs definitely fall under the ‘wants and desires’ category (as against needs and necessities for your car, like fuel), it should be perceived as an investment. PPFs can cost anywhere between ₹50,000 and ₹1,50,000, depending on the size of your car and where you get the PPF applied from. While the investment might look steep upfront, it is worth considering that it will avoid you having to spend money on a paint touchup thanks to a build-up of scratches and dings over the years. Good quality PPFs even come with up to 10 year warranties.

2) PPFs lower a car’s value: The fact that PPFs help protect your car from scratches, stone chips, and paint fade only helps maintain (and even better) your car’s value over time. A car that looks like it is maintained well is always an added bonus for potential buyers, so it is very likely that a PPF will help drive your car’s resale value up.

3) PPFs can’t be applied to every car: The important thing to keep in mind about paint protection films is that they are tailored to your car’s specific needs. This means that they can be applied to everything from a humble Maruti Suzuki 800 to a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and everything in between. Moreover, PPF doesn’t need to be applied to the entirety of your car; depending on your requirements, PPF can be applied to specific areas of your car you think are most susceptible to damage.

4) Once applied, PPFs can’t be removed: The fact of the matter is that while paint protection films look almost like a second skin for your car, they can easily be removed by professionals without harming the original paintwork. That said, the only time you should consider removing your PPF is after a considerable number of years when the PPF itself is starting to show signs of wear.

5) PPFs can absorb any and all damage: It is important to not overstate the abilities of PPFs. While it definitely gives your car an added layer of protection from scratches and stone chips, a PPF will not protect your car from more serious damage. Major scrapes against surfaces and other high-impact damage will be able to penetrate the PPFs protective layering, so it is important to drive carefully even with a PPF installed.

6) PPFs can only be applied to new cars: While it is recommended that PPFs be applied to cars the moment it is delivered, it can as easily be installed to a car that’s even five years old. The only point to note here is that it would be beneficial to correct any minor scratches, dents and swirl marks before applying a PPF to an old car. This will give you the biggest bang for your buck, and ensure your car’s paint looks as new as possible.

7) PPF is not necessary if you have covered parking: While a covered parking definitely helps protect your car from external factors, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. While your car is on the move, it will naturally be exposed to the elements, and that’s when a PPF comes in handy. 

8) PPF can yellow over time: Good quality paint protection films offer elongated warranties (up to 10 years) from manufacturing defects or yellowing/discolouring over time.

The real benefits of paint protection film

Paint protection film is a clear plastic film that is applied to the painted surfaces of a vehicle. The film is designed to protect the paint from chips, scratches, and other damage. The film acts as a barrier between the paint and the elements, protecting the paint from scratches and chips. It is also UV resistant, so it can help to keep the paint from fading. Overall, PPF is an extremely durable product that can protect your car’s paint for years.

There are many benefits to using paint protection film. In no particular order, they are:

1) It is nearly invisible and does not change the appearance of your car.

2) It is durable and long lasting. Most places that apply PPFs even provide extensive warranty with the installation.

3) The PPF has self-healing properties that ensure better protection against stone chips and minor scratches.

4) It keeps your vehicle’s paint looking new for longer.

5) It protects your paint from damage caused by road debris.

6) It reduces the amount of time and money you spend on paint correction and polishing.

7) PPFs also have hydrophobic properties, which allows water to slide and fall away, rather than remain and stick to the car’s body.

How to choose the right PPF for your vehicle

Choosing the right PPF comes down to your research and picking a vendor that has a good track record when it comes to PPF installations. It is in your own interest to find out which aftermarket store does the best job of applying PPFs to vehicles, as this can make a big difference to your vehicle in a few years’ time.

When applying a PPF to a car, the installer shouldn’t leave any visible seams or edges. If the seams are not tucked in well, they become more visible as the car gets dirtier, and with time the corners will even start to retain dirt and be visibly stained. 

Also keep in mind that if someone offers you a very low price for a PPF install, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be a good install. Spending the right amount on a PPF will make a big difference over the course of the ownership of your vehicle. Lastly, a good way to tell that the vehicle’s PPF has been installed well is if you can’t even tell the difference.

How to maintain your vehicle’s PPF

Once you have taken the plunge and installed the PPF, it’s important to keep your vehicle in good condition by properly maintaining the PPF installation. This can be done by ensuring the following steps are taken care of:

1) Don’t wash your car immediately after the PPF installation. The film needs to settle and cure, and putting pressure on the coating could affect this.

2) Don’t touch the film after installation. It may take several days for the film to settle and cure. If you can avoid driving your car at all during this time, it will help keep any pressure off the PPF application.

3) Clean your car yourself rather than using a car wash. Pressure washers, harsh soaps, and dirty brushes can damage the application or the top layer of the film.

4) Use high-quality cleaning products. Low-quality products may contain harsh chemicals that will damage the car’s PPF. Make sure any microfiber cloths or mitts you buy are specifically designed for auto care.

5) Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight combined with car wash soap might damage the coating. Try to wash in the shade or in a garage if you can.

6) Keep rags, mitts, and buckets separate for wheels and for the body. Any debris that your tyres collect should stay away from the body of your vehicle. Keep the two areas separate when it comes to cleaning products.

7) PPFs also require professional maintenance at regular intervals. These are usually recommended by the manufacturer of the film. The vendor you use for PPF application should offer you a warranty card, as well as highlight intervals where you must bring your car back to them for regular care and maintenance.

PPF vs vinyl wraps vs ceramic coating: are they the same?

A PPF is used to preserve a car’s original paint job, and give the car an additional layer of protection against minor scratches, dings, stone chips, and the like. On the other hand, a vinyl wrap is more commonly used for aesthetic customisations and changing the colour of the car altogether. Vinyl wraps also offer a degree of protection against minor scratches and stone chips, but not to the extent of a PPF.

Lastly, there’s also ceramic coating. Rather than applying a vinyl wrap to the car, this type of clear coat protection bonds with the paint itself. This means there’s no need to reapply like you would with a high quality wax or powder coating. The nano-coating gives your car an impressive glossy finish, and it repels water like little else on the market. A quick rinse with a hose will give you a spotless, shiny finish. The downside to this choice is the potential for scratches, flying debris, and other imperfections to damage cars. A ceramic coating is also quite time-consuming and difficult to apply, and it can be more expensive than applying paint protection film on your car.

Conclusion

Paint protection films for cars are an excellent option if you want to increase the life of your vehicle’s original paint. Ideally, you should apply a PPF the moment you get your new car, but there is no harm in getting a PPF applied to a used car, either. In the case of the latter, it is advisable to get minor scratches and dents corrected before applying the PPF.

What’s undeniable is that PPFs come at a cost that may not suit everyone’s budget. But for those who want nothing but the best for their vehicles, and a lasting protection against minor scratches and chips, PPFs come across as a viable option. 

FAQs

Q. Do you really need paint protection film?

By no means is a PPF for your car a necessity, but it is a great option to help protect your car from minor scratches and dents.

Q. Does paint protection really work?

As long as the PPF is installed carefully and by a professional, they do exactly as advertised and protect your car from minor scratches and dents, all the while retaining your paint’s lustre.

Q. Is PPF really worth it?

PPF is worth it if you can justify the upfront cost, which could range between ₹50,000 and ₹1,50,000, depending on the size of your car and where you get the PPF applied from.

Q. Can PPF be removed?

A good quality PPF can easily be removed by a professional. 

Q. How long does PPF last on a car?

There is no definitive answer, but well-installed PPFs are known to last anywhere between three and five years.