What Is PPF Paint Protection Film and What Does It Protect Against?

A new car's paint looks flawless — right up until the first long drive. Stone chips kicked up by the car ahead, sand, insects, automatic car washes — they all leave marks. PPF paint protection film exists for exactly this reason: to take that damage instead of your paintwork.

In this post we explain in plain language what PPF film is, how it works, and what it actually protects against.

What Is PPF Film?

PPF (short for Paint Protection Film) is a clear film applied directly to the paintwork. It's virtually invisible — it doesn't change the car's colour, and when installed well it blends seamlessly with the bodywork. At Eighteen Wraps we work with Hexis film.

Unlike a ceramic coating, which is a thin layer that keeps the paint looking good and clean, PPF is a physical layer that actually absorbs impacts. These are two different things that complement each other well — we compared them in detail in our post ceramic coating vs PPF.

What Does PPF Film Actually Protect Against?

The film takes the hits that damage paintwork every day:

• stone chips from the road — the biggest risk on motorways and long drives,
• sand and small gravel, which dull and scratch the surface,
• insects and bird droppings — chemically aggressive, they can damage paint if left too long,
• fine scratches from washing and everyday use,
• edge abrasion — door handles, sills, door and boot edges.

To be honest: film isn't armour. It won't protect against serious damage from a collision. But against what typically wears down a car's looks day to day — yes, it does.

What Is Self-Healing Film?

Many PPF films have a self-healing property — fine scratches on the film's surface (from washing, for example) can "disappear" under heat, such as in sunlight or after being rinsed with warm water. That's why the film keeps looking new for a long time, despite daily use.

A ceramic coating takes care of how the paint looks. PPF film protects it mechanically — it takes the hit the paint would otherwise get.

Whole Car or Just the Front?

Film can be applied in two ways:

• Partial / front — the most exposed parts: front bumper, bonnet, mirrors, sills, door edges. This works for people who want to protect the areas that take the most abuse without covering the whole car.
• Full car — complete protection for the whole body, most often chosen for new cars or models people care about especially.

Which option makes sense for you depends on how and where you drive. You'll find the details on our PPF paint protection film page.

How Much Does It Cost?

Price depends on the scope (front only or the whole car), the car model, and the shape of the panels being covered, so we don't quote a single price. You'll find current price ranges on our detailing price list, and we'll prepare a specific quote once we've seen your car.

Wondering which parts of your car are worth protecting? Call: 600 368 944 — Krzysiek will tell you honestly what actually makes sense.