FAQ - 3M PPF
FAQ-3M PPF
3M PAINT PROTECTION FILM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Self-Healing
Q: How does 3M Paint Protection Film heal itself?
A: 3M Paint Protection Film uses a special polymer in its clear coat that flows even though it is cured. This allows the clear coat to find its natural level again after being disturbed on the surface.
Q: How deep of a scratch will heal?
A:
The clear coat is designed to heal surface scratches and common swirl marks that occur during routine washing of the car. If the scratch penetrates through the film's clear coat, it will not heal.
Q: How long does it take for a scratch to heal?
A:
The time for a scratch to heal depends on the severity of the scratch and the ambient temperature. Minor scratches usually heal in one hour at room temperature (72°F). In warmer climates, healing time will be shorter. The healing process can be accelerated at any time by pouring hot water over the scratched area.
Q: How many times will the clear coat heal itself?
A:
With this technology, there is no limit to the number of times the clear coat can heal itself. As long as the clear coat is not penetrated it will heal over and over again.
Q: How long will the clear coat last?
A:
Depending on how the film is cared for, the clear coat can last indefinitely. Regular washing and waxing will keep the clear coat in top condition for years to come.
Stain & Chemical Resistance
Q: How does 3M Paint Protection Film resist staining?
A:
The clear coat on 3M has a very low surface energy, which makes it extremely difficult for organic compounds to stick to the film. Insects, bird droppings and environmental contaminants (which would normally cause yellowing) such as road oils, exhaust smoke and pollution can be removed during regular washing. An example of a similar technology would be Teflon, where a Teflon pan is easy to clean because nothing will stick to it.
Q: What if a stain does not come off the film during normal washing?
A:
If an ordinary car wash or soap and water will not remove a stain, there are a variety of products available to do the job. In most cases, simple isopropyl rubbing alcohol will remove anything on the surface of the film. In cases of more severe staining, or where something has been left on the film for a long period of time, a sparing amount of lacquer thinner can be used. Bug and tar remover available at any auto parts store is also effective. If you are unsure about the use of any other chemical on the surface of the film, please contact us directly at (516) 356-5555 for assistance.
FAQS CONTINUED
How to Care for the Film
Q: How is care of 3M PPF different than other films?
A:
XPEL ULTIMATE Paint Protection Film requires less maintenance than any other brand of film on the market. Our general care instructions are:
• Wait 48 hours after installation to wash your car
• Remove insect or other stains with bug and tar remover
• Stubborn stains can be removed with 99% isopropyl alcohol or lacquer thinner. Take care to keep these chemicals off the vehicle’s paint
• Light scratches in the film will self-heal in 20-30 minutes at room temperature. In colder conditions, or to accelerate the process, pour warm water (120°F) over the affected area
Q: Can I wax the film when I wax the rest of the car?
A: Unlike most paint protection films on the market, 3M Paint Protection film can be waxed and sealed just like your paint.
Q: Will 3M PPF make the paint underneath the film fade at a different rate?
A: No. 3M Paint Protection Film allows UV to pass through the film and fade the paint underneath at the same rate as the exposed paint.
Installation Differences
Q: Does 3M Paint Protection Film install the same way as other films?
A: All paint protection films on the market install at least slightly different from one another. This is due to differences in adhesive chemistry, clear coat density, etc. 3M PPF is an extremely installer-friendly film when applied using 3M's recommended installation guidelines.
Q: Can I stretch the film if it has an automotive clear-coat on top?
A: 3M PPF can be stretched just like any other paint protection film. The only difference that will be felt is that some extra force will be needed to stretch the film due to the greater density of the clear coat.
Warranty Coverage
Q: What does the 3M PPF 10 year warranty cover?
A: 3M warrants 3M Paint Protection Film to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for ten (10) years from the date of purchase. Covered defects include: yellowing, staining, cracking, blistering and delaminating. This warranty does not extend coverage to damage caused by normal wear and tear, road debris impact, accidents, collisions or intentional damage of any kind.
Q: Does the warranty include labor to replace the film?
A: Yes. Reimbursement for labor charges covered by the warranty will be made directly to the Authorized 3M Dealer performing warranty replacement.