How to Maintain Paint Protection Film: Tips for Longevity

Paint protection film (PPF), also known as a clear film or clear bra, is an outstanding vehicle product designed to defend your car paintwork against the elements and protect its beauty.
Choosing a trusted professional can go a long way toward ensuring your PPF lasts the distance, but that’s not to say you don’t play a part. Here are some helpful tips for vehicle owners to help maintain their PPF:
Tip #1: Don’t Wash Your Vehicle Right Away
As tempting as it can be to wash your vehicle soon after getting PPF to see its hydrophobic properties, most professionals don’t recommend it. In fact, most trusted PPF installers recommend waiting at least 48 hours before washing a vehicle to give the film’s adhesive time to cure.
If you usually power wash your car, avoid doing this for at least the first week after PPF installation to reduce the risk of the film lifting.
Tip #2: Adopt Gentle Washing Techniques
Many vehicle owners prefer fast and powerful vehicle washing techniques to get the job done quicker. However, you may like to adjust your technique to help your paint protection film’s longevity. Rather than power washing or using a car wash, you may see the value in purchasing pH-neutral car shampoo and washing your vehicle by hand with a soft microfiber mitt.
It can also be important to rinse your vehicle to remove dirt and debris before cleaning it to avoid scratching the surface.
Tip #3: Dry Your Vehicle Carefully
In the past, you may not have thought twice about aggressively wiping or rubbing your vehicle’s paintwork dry after washing it. However, changing your drying technique can be important once you install PPF.
Use only clean microfiber towels to dry your vehicle – and only pat the film dry gently. Don’t use aggressive wiping techniques or chamois cloths, which can scratch the film.
Tip #4: Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Most vehicle owners already use gentle cleaning products to protect their paintwork. You can continue this habit when you invest in paint protection film. Refrain from using any harsh degreasers, abrasive cleaners, or petroleum-based solvents.
If you’re unsure which cleaning products are suitable for use on PPF, talk to your local installer. You can also read product labeling for peace of mind.
Tip #5: Be Careful With Waxes and Sealants
Paint protection film can help keep your car looking clean and shiny for longer. As a result, you may not need to wax or seal your vehicle like you used to. However, if you still prefer to carry out waxing and sealing, be mindful of the products you use.
Choose PPF-safe wax and refrain from using any products with dyes or petroleum distillates. Before waxing or sealing, you may want to contact your local PPF installer to ask what they recommend.
Tip #6: Be Mindful of PPF Edges
Professional installers do a great job installing paint protection film to last the distance and not lift. However, you still need to be mindful that paint protection film has edges, and anything that gets under those edges can cause the product to lift.
As a result, take great care when washing your vehicle. Don’t spray water directly at the PPF edges, and always clean gently around them.
Learn More at Solar Shield in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Do you need help maintaining your PPF? Are you worried about keeping it in tip-top shape? Contact Solar Shield in Fort Smith, Arkansas, today. Our expert installers can provide helpful maintenance advice to help you keep your paint protection film in excellent condition for as long as possible.