FAQ

While you can wax the film, be sure the product you are using doesn’t contain Naphtha or Kerosene in concentrations over 5%, and avoid waxes that contain dyes. For best results, we recommend using our XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant or XPEL Ceramic Boost. This product has been specially formulated for use with polyurethane paint protection films to provide the maximum protection and gloss, while containing no ingredients that would cause discoloration over time.

Yes. Paint protection film can be applied to most smooth painted surfaces.

 

Our ULTIMATE PLUS Series Films are warrantied for 10 years. This warranty covers: yellowing, delaminating, cracking, peeling, bubbling, and more. More information on the warranty can be found on the XPEL Warranty Information page.

Yes. The process is the same as with regular paint: wet the surface with a lubricant such as XPEL Detail Spray or soapy water and then gently rub the surface with the clay bar. For stubborn insect, bird dropping, or hard water stains, use an all-purpose degreaser such as Simple Green as the lubricant for the detailing clay.

 

No special maintenance is required for XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS. However, the film will last longer and will be easier to clean if treated twice a year with XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant.

 

Any of our films can be installed on Chrome, though the finish will look slightly different than if left unprotected. We recommend having your installer apply a small swatch to the desired surface so you can see what it looks like before deciding.

 

XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS is warrantied for 10 years against a range of issues including yellowing. More information about the warranty can be found on our Warranty Information page

 

The clear coat is the self-healing layer and is approximately 13 microns thick. If that layer is penetrated, the film will not heal.

 

Not at this time, please contact customer support for more information

 

No, XPEL Paint protection film cannot be installed on your windshield. Due to the impact absorbency of paint protection film, the refractive index of the film is too different from that of the windshield. Because of this difference, putting the two together causes a distortion when looking through the glass that would be unacceptable to the vehicle’s occupants.

 

Yes. Most smooth painted surface can be covered with paint protection film.

 

Paint protection film can be applied on any smooth painted surface. However, given the tight tolerances on weight, balance and other factors on some aircraft, it is highly recommended to consult with the manufacturer of the airplane for strict guidance.

 

Yes, but please wait at least 48 hours after installation to allow the film to dry completely.

 

Acry-solvent, or any other Xylene based solvent, will not harm the film unless left sitting saturated in it for an extended period. To use this type of solvent on the film (for removing stains, etc.) wet a microfiber towel with the product and wipe the film for one or two minutes. If the stain remains, allow the solvent to evaporate and then repeat the process.

 

Yes, while XPEL can be installed on marine boats and watercraft, please review the warranty for applicable surfaces.

 

Yes, pressure washers can be used on XPEL paint protection films, provided the film has completely dried after installation (typically 48 hours) and provided the high-pressure water is not pointed directly at the edges of the film.

 

Other than the simplest body panels, application of paint protection film is a process which requires a good deal of experience and training to obtain satisfactory results. The compound curves present on most surfaces require the film to be stretched and compressed in a very controlled way to ensure proper adhesion without distorting the adhesive. As such, it is highly recommended that the film is professionally installed.

 

Absolutely, once applied, the Paint Protection Film can be removed. Despite the fact that the adhesive used is notably strong and forms a very secure bond with the paint, should you require a panel replacement in the future, our certified professionals are available to aid with the removal and substitution processes.

It is highly unlikely for paint protection film to harm OEM paint. Paint systems used on modern assembly lines today produce a minimum bond strength of 16 MPa and maximum of 25 MPa between the panel and the paint depending on color, iridescence and the system used. Our film’s bond to the painted surface at normal state (immediately following installation) is .0753 MPa. Even after years of heat and sun, the bond between the film and the paint increases to only 0.17 MPa. What that means is in the absolute worst case scenario, the bond of factory paint to the panel is over 94 times stronger than the bond of our film to the paint. In the best case, the paint is 332 times stronger. 

It depends on the coating. Some may deepen the finish while others may add unwanted gloss. We recommend testing the coating on a swatch of unused film or in an inconspicuous area before coating a protected panel. We recommend using XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating, our ceramic coating was designed with paint and XPEL Paint protection film in mind.

 

Yes, XPEL can be installed on your cars headlamps and fog lamps

 

Yes. XPEL film can be applied over a vinyl wrap or graphics. However, if there are any hard edges that film must cross (as in the case of stripes), it could result in some air being trapped along that edge.

 

We recommend using the XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash, combined with the XPEL Detail Spray and Ceramic Boost for increased cleanliness and slickness.

 

Yes. Though you can install the film over any quality of touch-up, the best possible appearance will be obtained if the touched up area has been color-sanded smooth and buffed after the application of the paint.

Yes. XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS can be applied to any smooth surface, though care should be taken around any electronics and/or switches so that installation fluids aren’t allowed to get into sensitive areas.

 

Yes, most factory paint is fully cured before the car ever leaves the assembly line.

 

While the edge of the film can be seen from certain angles, people generally do not notice it unless they are looking for it. However, if the car is dirty and dust and dirt can collect along the edge of the film, it will be more noticeable. Once the car is cleaned, it will be once again difficult to detect unless looking for it. Luckily, we at PPF Guys wrap corners and edges. You will not have this problem. 

 

The self-healing clear coat of our ULTIMATE PLUS and STEALTH films is designed to repair itself from swirl marks and light scratches from car washes, etc. If a piece of debris has penetrated all the way through the clear coat on the film, it will not self-heal. The only way to fix this would be to have the piece of film replaced.

 

If there is left over adhesive upon removal, you can use a general purpose adhesive remover, often found at your local auto parts or home improvement store.

 

The XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS Film Series warranty is transferable to another owner with proof of purchase.

 

No, the film once applied and removed cannot be reused.

 

Any of our paint protection films can be installed on aluminum or brushed metal, though they may change the appearance to some degree depending on the film you choose. We recommend having your installer apply a small swatch of the film to the surface in question to determine the appearance prior to full installation.

 

We recommend using our XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant. This product has been specially formulated for use with polyurethane paint protection films to provide the maximum protection and gloss, while containing no ingredients that would cause discoloration over time. We also recommend XPEL Detail Spray and/or Ceramic Boost for added slickness and ease of cleaning.

 

Yes, Coatings can be applied to the films. Adding a coating does not stop the film from self-healing. Coatings can add a protective layer over the film, which depending on the coating can provide different properties (Please contact your installer or coating company for more information). That additional coating layer, depending on the coating applied, may or may not self-heal. Once the coating wears down and deteriorates, the self-healing qualities of XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS and STEALTH will remain. We recommend XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating. Our ceramic was specifically formulated for your vehicles paint and XPEL Paint protection film.

 

We would not recommend this, as it may result in poor adhesion to the painted surfaces. Professional removal of the ceramic coating is recommended. You may install XPEL FUSION PLUS on top of your XPEL Paint Protection Film. Check with your local installer for more details.

Please see the diagram on www.xpel.com/care and be sure to use a steamer or heat gun to soften and warm the adhesive. This will yield the best possible results and will leave little if any adhesive behind. Any traces of residue left behind can be removed with any commercially available adhesive remover that is safe for automotive paint.

Yes, assuming you and the installer are both comfortable with the risk, there is nothing about the film that would prevent this from being done. We also have designs for most body panels on nearly every vehicle, which would allow installation without dismantling the vehicle.

 

Yes, you can install a vinyl on top of the film. We recommend waiting 48 hours after installation before doing so. You may also remove the stripe without damaging the film, if removed properly.

 

This is a very common occurrence with Paint Protection Film of all brands. It has to do with the difference in refractive index between the layer of film and the paint on the car. It is most noticeable on compound-curved surfaces because the film must be stretched over these areas to allow it to be installed without wrinkles. When the film is stretched, it becomes slightly thinner in those areas which causes the phenomenon seen through polarized glasses.

It can also occur on flat surfaces when the installer needs to use a drying solution (as opposed to a slip solution) such as alcohol and water to get the needed bond to the paint. This is due to the difference in viscosity of the fluids and their effect on the adhesive’s properties.

Polarized glasses have this effect on several different multi-layer surfaces (not just paint protection film) made of glass or plastic.

FUSION PLUS ™ Ceramic Coating

FUSION PLUS uses Silicon Dioxide technology. It is a complex chemical matrix that is unique to us. A combination of several technologies that cross-link very strongly to form a strong 9H coating.

 

Ease of maintenance, hydrophobic properties, and self-cleaning properties.

 

FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating warranties are available at www.xpel.com/warranty-information.

Yes, FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF is a 9H ceramic coating that is scratch resistant.

 

Cure times vary depending on which coating you have had applied to your vehicle. Please check with your local dealer or on our technical data sheets available on xpel.com.

 

Yes, XPEL FUSION PLUS MARINE is designed to help protection your watercrafts surface.

 

Yes, we provide a FUSION PLUS ceramic coating specifically designed for aircraft applications.

 
 

Warranty terms vary depending on your applied coating, please visit www.xpel.com/warranty-information for full warranty details and coverages.

 

The first thing to know is that the two products are not comparable and thus not a true comparison to one another. Paint protection film provides a urethane layer of protection against rock chips and scratches. Ceramic coatings, even when cured, are microns thick and not engineered to stop rock chips. That said, it is an excellent product for protection against environmental contaminates such as bird droppings, bug guts, and more. Not to mention that it makes cleaning off track rubber much easier. To further answer the question – ceramic coatings are for customers who want some basic protection along with increased shine, gloss, depth of color, and great hydrophobic and self-cleaning properties. PPF are for the customers who want actual protection against rock chips and scratches.

 

This combo is extremely common. The car enthusiast is after that best-case scenario type of maintenance. Having PPF and ceramic coating will keep the vehicle protected from rock chips, road debris, and more while having all the benefits of a ceramic coated car. Those benefits being hydrophobic properties, self-cleaning, and an increased gloss and depth appearance.

The coating links with the painted surface creating a new functional layer. By creating an inseparable bond on a molecular level with the vehicles paintwork you get a coating that cannot be washed off like a wax or sealant.

If your vehicle is protected with XPEL FUSION PLUS, it is highly recommended you use an approved car wash solution, such as XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash, which is formulated to help encapsulate the dirt and help keep your surface protected and scratch free. XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash has been tested and works great with FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating. Once you finish washing your vehicle, we recommend using XPEL Ceramic Boost spray, for an extra slick, hydrophobic surface. We also have XPEL Detail Spray for quick wipe downs in between washings.

 

Yes, you can apply FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF to the STEALTH film. It will not make the surface glossy; it will enhance the depth of the matte finish.

9H hardness is a rating based on the Pencil Hardness Test, commonly used by manufacturers of clear and pigmented surface coatings. The Pencil Hardness test is used to determine the scratch resistance of a coating surface by using pencils to scratch the surface and rate the scratch resistance in relation to that pencils hardness and other materials of similar hardness.

 

We offer a full line up of premium ceramic coatings. Visit www.xpel.com/fusion-plus for a full list of our ceramic offerings.

 

No, we do not offer a self-healing coating currently. We do have our paint protection films that feature self-healing features.

 

FUSION PLUS GLASS is not a windshield protection film; it does not prevent stone chips. It helps make the glass surface more hydrophobic

 

We would recommend using XPEL Anti-Static Window Cleaner.

Yes, PLASTIC & TRIM helps prevent fading due to UV rays. It also enhances and rejuvenates the plastic and trim surface.

Yes, this product is designed for the high heat temperature for your vehicles wheel and caliper surfaces.

 

No, factory interiors should not discolor, our product allows the material to breathe, retaining its natural feel and retaining its original look.

 

FUSION PLUS UPHOLSTERY helps prevent interior surfaces from stains and spills.

FUSION PLUS UPHOLSTERY can be applied to your automotive Fabric, Carpet, Leather and Vinyl. Do not use on Alcantara and Suede surfaces.

 

XPEL FUSION PLUS UPHOLSTERY helps protect your interior surfaces, (fabric, carpet, leather, and vinyl) from spills and stains. It is not a waterproofing coating.

Yes, UPHOLSTERY, can be used on carpets. All interior must be professionally cleaned before applying UPHOLSTERY. Avoid Alcantara and Suede surfaces.

FUSION PLUS MARINE will help prevent unsightly damage associated with UV Ray aging and fading colors.

 

Yes, FUSION PLUS MARINE works on paint and gelcoat surfaces for the watercraft industry.

 

Yes, you can use FUSION PLUS MARINE on your boat trailer to help protect it when launching your watercraft.