How to provide the ultimate care for your PPF wrapped vehicle.
How to Care for Your PPF Wrapped Vehicle
Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a fantastic investment for safeguarding your vehicle’s paintwork against chips, scratches, and other forms of damage.
However, like any protective coating, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
In this guide, we discuss the top five tips for caring for your PPF wrapped vehicle. This is all about helping you to preserve your car’s pristine appearance and protective qualities for years to come.
- Regular Washing with a Gentle Soap:
Regular washing is the cornerstone of PPF maintenance.
It is crucial to keep your paint protection film wrapped vehicle clean to prevent dirt, grime, and contaminants from adhering to the film’s surface and edges.
Use Bon Vivant’s Car Shampoo, which is a gentle pH neutral automotive soap and a Bon Vivant’s Wash, which is a super soft wash mitt – to clean your vehicle. This is key, as harsh chemicals and abrasive materials can potentially damage the integrity of the PPF.
Start by rinsing the vehicle with water to loosen any dirt or debris, then apply the soap using the wash mitt in straight, overlapping motions. A pressure washer may be used for efficient cleaning, but do not come too close with a strong nozzle or spray at the edges of the film as it may ingress pressured water under the film and lift edges.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, and dry the vehicle with a soft microfibre towel to prevent water spots. By washing your PPF wrap vehicle regularly, you’ll help maintain its appearance and protective properties.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Materials:
When caring for a PPF wrapped vehicle, it’s essential to avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that could damage the film.
This includes acidic cleaners, solvent-based products, and abrasive brushes or sponges. These substances can alter the appearance of the PPF and cause premature degradation, compromising its protective capabilities and self-healing qualities.
Opt for cleaning products specifically formulated for use on PPF and wrap materials, such as mild automotive soaps and pH-neutral cleaners.
By avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, you’ll help preserve the integrity of the PPF wrap and extend its lifespan.
- Use a Ceramic Coating for Added Protection:
Applying a ceramic coating on top of your PPF wrapped vehicle can provide an additional layer of protection and enhance its durability.
Ceramic coatings create a hydrophobic barrier that repels water, dirt, and other contaminants, making it easier to maintain a clean and glossy finish. Additionally, ceramic coatings offer UV protection, preventing the PPF from yellowing or fading over time if the vehicle is left extensively outside. There are many easy to use consumer grade spray coatings that add a light barrier on top of the PPF that can be used frequently after every wash for fuss free and cost effective results.
Before applying a ceramic coating, ensure that the PPF is clean and free of any contaminants. Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, ensuring thorough coverage and proper curing. A ceramic coating can help prolong the life of your PPF wrapped vehicle and keep it looking like new for years to come.
- Perform Regular Inspections and Touch-Ups:
Periodic inspections are essential for identifying any signs of damage or wear on your PPF wrapped vehicle.
Check the film for any chips, scratches, or imperfections, especially in high-impact areas like the front bumper, hood, and fenders.
If you notice any damage, promptly contact the business that applied your PPF and enquire about having it fixed with touch-up paint or patch kits.
In addition to you doing regular visual inspections, consider scheduling professional inspections with your PPF installer.
They can assess the condition of the PPF and recommend any necessary repairs or maintenance to keep it performing optimally. By staying proactive and addressing issues promptly, you will help preserve the integrity of your PPF wrapped vehicle.
- Store Your Vehicle Indoors Whenever Possible:
When possible, store your PPF wrapped vehicle indoors to protect it from the elements and minimize exposure to environmental hazards.
Extended exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, and pollutants can accelerate wear and deterioration of the PPF, compromising its protective qualities.
If outdoor storage is unavoidable, consider investing in a breathable car cover to shield the vehicle from the elements.
By storing your PPF wrapped vehicle indoors whenever possible, you’ll help prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance for years to come. Additionally, indoor storage can help prevent fading, yellowing, and other forms of deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight and environmental contaminants.
Caring for your PPF wrapped car requires diligence and attention to detail. By following these top five tips, you can help preserve the integrity of the PPF and keep your vehicle looking its best for years to come.
Please contact Bon Vivant Auto Care if you have further questions about how to care for your vehicle. If you would like to view our best practice car care products, please visit Bon Vivant Auto’s online shop.
