Just like any revolutionary product designed to improve our lives, paint protection film (PPF) hasn’t been immune to its share of myths and misconceptions since its arrival in India two decades ago. However, the experts at CarzSpa Detailing Studio are here to dispel these top 10 PPF myths. This blog will help you uncover the truth and make informed decisions to keep your car looking flawless from day one.
Table of Contents
- Myth: PPFs are very costly
- Myth: PPFs Bring Down The Car’s Value
- Myth: PPFs Are Only For Luxury Cars
- Myth: PPF Cannot Be Removed After Application
- Myth: PPFs Will Protect The Car From All Damages
- Myth: PPFs Will Turn Yellow After Some Time
- Myth: All PPFs Are The Same
- Myth: PPFs Can be Applied Only On New Cars
- Myth: PPFs Can Be Installed At Home
- Myth: Ceramic Coating Cannot Be Applied After PPF
- Concluding thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Myth 1: PPFs are very costly
There’s no denying that PPF installation requires an upfront investment. However, it’s important to view it as a long-term play for your car’s looks and value. The good news is that PPFs have become more accessible in recent years. While a few years back a full PPF job might have set you back ₹1.5 lakhs, costs have come down significantly, with some options starting around ₹50K.
PPF coating acts as an invisible shield, protecting your paint from scratches, stone chips and environmental damage. Think about the cost of repainting a damaged car compared to PPF’s cost. PPF’s durability keeps your car looking great for years. Plus, a preserved showroom-fresh paint job translates to a higher resale value. So, PPF can be a smart investment that pays off in the long run.
Myth 2: PPFs Bring Down The Car's Value
This misconception might surprise you! Contrary to popular belief, PPF on cars can actually help maintain your resale value to a great extent. PPF acts as a protective barrier, shielding your car’s paint from scratches, rock chips, fading and other damage caused by everyday driving and environmental factors. This keeps your car looking close to new, which is highly desirable to potential buyers. A car with a well-maintained, protected paint job showcases a history of responsible ownership. This can reassure potential buyers and potentially translate into a higher asking price.
Myth 3: PPFs Are Only For Luxury Cars
Forget the misconception that PPF for cars is a privilege reserved for high-end vehicles. PPF is a practical investment for any car owner, regardless of make or model. Daily driving exposes every car to potential damage. Road debris, shopping carts and even flying pebbles can leave unsightly scratches and chips. PPF helps any car, new or used, maintain a showroom shine. And PPF isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Installation can be tailored to specific areas of your car most susceptible to damage. Here’s an interesting fact for you, the highest number of PPF installations done on any car model at CarzSpa Detailing Studios is the Hyundai Creta, a subcompact crossover SUV.
Myth 4: PPF Cannot Be Removed After Application
One concern car owners often have is that PPF becomes a permanent fixture. Thankfully, that’s not the case! Modern PPFs utilise advanced adhesive technology that allows for professional removal without harming the original paintwork. Over time, even high-quality PPF can show signs of wear. The ability of a car detailing professional to safely remove and replace the film allows you to keep your car looking its best throughout its lifetime.
Myth 5: PPFs Will Protect The Car From All Damages
While PPF boasts impressive self-healing properties, it’s important to understand its limitations. PPF excels at protecting against everyday wear and tear. Minor scratches from car washes, brushing against objects or light road debris are often minimised or even self-heal thanks to the film’s properties. This keeps your car’s paint looking flawless for longer.
Think of PPF as a strong defence against everyday wear and tear and to some extent, moderate impacts and collisions. Just like a mobile screen guard protects your phone screen from scratches and minor cracks, PPF can absorb the impact of a bump or minor collision, preventing damage to the underlying paint. In such cases, the PPF itself might take the hit and need replacing, but it can shield your car’s paint from scratches or dents, eliminating the need for expensive repaints. However, it’s important to remember that PPF has its limits. For complete peace of mind against major damage, consider combining PPF with careful driving habits and parking strategies.
Myth 6: PPFs Will Turn Yellow After Some Time
There’s a misconception that PPF eliminates the need for car maintenance. While PPF offers superior protection and reduces the frequency of detailing, it still requires proper care to maintain its effectiveness and appearance. Just like the rest of your car, PPF needs regular washing to remove dirt, grime and environmental aggressors. These contaminants can break down the film over time, reducing its protective properties and clarity.
However, the truth about yellowing is more nuanced. The quality of the film itself plays a significant role. High-quality aliphatic TPU films are much more resistant to yellowing compared to PVC or TPH films. These lower-grade materials may show signs of discolouration within a few years. If you’re concerned about longevity and want to ensure a crystal-clear finish for years to come, opting for a trusted product, like the Aegis range of PPFs by CarzSpa, that uses aliphatic TPU is recommended. For optimal results, use a gentle car wash specifically formulated for PPF, like a PPF Shampoo. These cleaners are pH-neutral and free of harsh chemicals that can damage the film.
Myth 7: All PPFs Are the Same
This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. PPFs vary in terms of thickness, finish and durability. It’s crucial to research and select a PPF that aligns with your specific needs and environmental conditions. CarzSpa offers a range of PPF thicknesses, from the thickest PPFs like Ultra 250 and Eternal 300 to clear PPFs like SPX, Armor and Hybrid. There are also PPFs with a matte finish available for those who want a luxurious finish to their car’s body. Further innovation has also led to the introduction of coloured PPFs, which look like vinyl wraps, but protect like a strong car PPF.
Myth 8: PPFs Can be Applied Only On New Cars
This misconception can deter owners of pre-owned vehicles from seeking the protection of PPF. The truth is, that PPF is a great option for cars of all ages and types, as long as the paintwork is in good condition. And this includes even those restored, old-school car models too. When you take your car to professional detailers at CarzSpa can correct minor swirls or scratches on pre-owned cars before applying PPF, resulting in a flawless finish.
Pro tip
The best way to keep your car’s new-like shine intact is by applying PPF on day one itself.
Myth 9: PPFs Can Be Installed At Home
Attempting a DIY paint protection film installation may seem tempting, but it’s a myth that it can be done perfectly at home. PPF requires expert hands and a controlled environment to ensure flawless application. At professional detailing studios like CarzSpa, trained installers follow a meticulous process in specialised paint protection bays. Every inch of your car’s body gets precisely covered, leaving no nook or cranny untouched. The films are carefully heated and stretched to stick to every curve and panel without trapping bubbles, dust or debris underneath. One missed spot and the protection is compromised! Don’t risk your car’s showroom finish. Trust only authorised experts who have the skills and facility to install PPFs to perfection.
Myth 10: Ceramic Coating Cannot Be Applied After PPF
There’s a misconception that PPF and ceramic coating can’t coexist. But the reality is, they can create a powerful protective duo! PPF shields your car’s paint from scratches and physical damage, while ceramic coating adds a layer of hydrophobic protection that repels water, dirt and UV rays. One such product is the CrystalShield Marvel by CarzSpa, a special nano-coating for PPFs which amplifies the protective power of PPFs.
Concluding thoughts
Paint protection film (PPF) goes beyond a simple car wash; it’s an investment in your car’s long-term appearance and value. By dispelling these common myths, we hope you have a clearer understanding of how PPF can benefit your vehicle.
Remember, every car deserves protection and here at CarzSpa Detailing Studios, we have a wide range of PPF options to suit your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritise superior scratch resistance or an exceptionally long lifespan, our selection offers the perfect solution.
Don’t let your car’s beauty fade – choose the protection it deserves and keep it looking showroom-fresh for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is PPF on car?
PPF or Paint Protection Film, is a clear, durable film applied to a car’s exterior body to protect the paint from minor scratches, rock chips and environmental damage like acid reaction from bird droppings and tree sap.
2. How long does PPF last on a car?
With proper maintenance, a high-quality PPF can last for up to 10 years. Aegis’ Eternal series of PPFs comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty too.
3. Can PPF be removed?
Yes, PPF can be safely removed by professionals without damaging the car’s paint.
4. Does PPF really protect car paint?
Absolutely. PPF acts as a shield against various forms of damage, keeping your car’s paint looking new for many years. However, it will not protect the car from any deep dents or gouges that may occur in accidents
5. Is PPF worth the investment?
Considering the paint protection it offers and the potential to maintain your car’s value, PPF is a worthwhile investment for any car owner.
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