Tell us your model and whether the paint is gloss or matte. The film’s finish and the areas covered affect the final appearance, so review a real material sample and the intended seams before choosing. Existing chips or repainting need a closer look before film is fitted.
How it works
What is paint protection film (PPF)?
Paint protection film, or PPF, is a clear, flexible film fitted over your car’s paint. It takes some of the small stone impacts, scuffs and road wear that would otherwise reach the finish. If a section is damaged, the film can often be replaced without repainting the panel. You may also know it as a clear bra.
An installer works a squeegee across wet paint protection film on the Cayman hood.
The layers between road debris and your paint
Paint protection film sits over the paint and clear coat. Some light surface marks can recover with warmth; deep cuts and punctures do not heal.
PPF sits over the paint and clear coat. Some films have a topcoat that recovers from light surface marks when warmed; deep cuts and punctures do not heal. The layers are separated and enlarged here so you can see how they fit together. Open full-size image
What happens during installation?
Prepare the paint
The installer checks the finish and cleans the surface. Existing chips, scratches or failing paint need assessment before film goes over them.
Position and fit the film
Film is cut and shaped for the panel, then positioned using application solution. The installer works the solution out and fits the material around curves, edges and recesses.
Finish and inspect the edges
The installation is checked for fit, remaining moisture and edge adhesion. The panel shape determines where seams and wrapped edges are practical.
What are the benefits?
A replaceable barrier against small stone impacts and everyday abrasion.
Protection focused on exposed panels or extended across the body.
Clear gloss film preserves a glossy look. XPEL STEALTH gives a matte finish; STEALTH is the XPEL name for that finish.
Some films can recover from light surface swirls when warmed; deep damage still needs assessment.
Using both
Can I use PPF and ceramic coating together?
Yes. Put film on the panels you want protected from chips and everyday contact, then use a compatible ceramic coating to make those surfaces easier to wash. You can also coat the paint on panels that do not have film.
Ceramic coating goes over compatible PPF
PPF provides a physical layer against some road wear. A compatible ceramic coating goes over the film to help with cleaning; the two products serve different purposes.
Ceramic coating goes on top of compatible PPF. The film’s adhesive holds it over the car’s clear coat and paint. The film protects against some physical wear; the coating helps with cleaning. Illustration, not to scale. The coating is liquid-applied; the separated layers do not represent air gaps. Open full-size image
Prepare the paint.
Clean and assess the finish. Tell us about repairs, existing film or coating so the surface can be prepared for adhesion.
Install the PPF.
Fit the film to the selected panels, then let it settle and prepare it for coating according to the product instructions.
Coat the compatible surfaces.
Apply the compatible coating over the film and any exposed paint you want coated, then allow it to cure. We’ll explain when to wash the car and how to care for both products.
XPEL makes FUSION PLUS coatings for use with compatible PPF, including options for satin finishes. Read XPEL’s product guidance.
Auto Vos uses XPEL paint protection film. Choose the panels you want covered, then compare clear gloss film with XPEL STEALTH, the matte-finish option. STEALTH is XPEL’s product name; matte describes the finish. We can show you what the film will look like and where its edges will sit.
What would you like to change?
Help protect selected panels from small chips and everyday abrasion. High-impact damage can still reach the finish. Focus on the places that take the most wear: the front bumper, mirrors, lower sides or the edge where you load the trunk. Keep a glossy look with clear film or choose XPEL STEALTH for a matte finish. See a sample and where the film edges will sit before deciding.
A quote for your car
PPF cost starts with coverage. A few exposed panels, full-front PPF and full-body PPF are different jobs. The car’s shape, film finish and paint condition also affect the price. Send us your model and the panels you want protected for a quote. Get a quote.
What to expect afterwards
Follow the waiting period before your first wash. Keep pressure-washer jets away from the film edges and use cleaners approved for your PPF. If film lifts or gets damaged, contact us before picking at it or attempting a repair. Keep the written warranty and check whether your product needs registration or regular maintenance.
How much does it cost?
The price of BMW paint protection film depends on your model, the areas you want treated and any preparation or old-film removal. Send us the year and model and what you have in mind. We’ll give you a quote for that work.
Yes. Tint reduces heat and glare through the glass, PPF helps protect the paint from chips, and ceramic coating makes cleaning easier. Tell us which of those matters to you so we can quote the services you actually need.
Paint protection film (PPF): questions and answers
How much does paint protection film cost?
PPF cost starts with coverage. A few exposed panels, full-front PPF and full-body PPF are different jobs. The car’s shape, film finish and paint condition also affect the price. Send us your model and the panels you want protected for a quote.
If stone chips and everyday paint damage bother you, a new car is a good time to consider PPF. Film can protect the paint before that wear builds up. Whether it is worth the cost depends on how you drive, how long you plan to keep the car and how much of it you want covered.
No. Paint protection film cannot replace missing paint or remove a scratch. Existing damage may still show through. Send us close-up photos so we can discuss the finish before covering it.
Will I see the edges of the PPF?
You may see an edge or seam if you look closely. Panel shape and the areas being covered determine where film can wrap around an edge and where it needs to stop. We can explain those points on your car before you book.
Do I need ceramic coating if I already have PPF?
You do not have to add it. PPF provides the physical protection; a compatible ceramic coating can make the film easier to wash. It is worth considering if easier cleaning is part of what you want.
Is PPF the same as a vinyl wrap?
No. Paint protection film is made to take some of the chips and abrasion that would otherwise reach the paint. Vinyl wraps are usually chosen to change a car’s color or add graphics. Ask for PPF if paint protection is your main goal.
What does self-healing PPF actually heal?
On films with a self-healing topcoat, warmth can help light surface swirls disappear. A deep scratch, cut or puncture will not heal. Neither will damage to the paint underneath.
What’s the difference between partial-front and full-front PPF?
Partial-front PPF may stop partway across the hood or front fenders, leaving an edge across the panel. Full-panel coverage runs to the panel boundaries. A full-front PPF quote should name the panels included and show where the film ends.
Full-front PPF focuses on common stone-chip areas such as the bumper, hood, front fenders and mirrors. Full-body PPF adds protection to the remaining painted panels. Tell us where you drive and which marks bother you most; we can quote the coverage that fits your priorities and budget.
Clear PPF lets the paint color show through, though gloss, texture and visible edges can change how the finish looks close up. Satin PPF deliberately changes the sheen. Look at a sample before choosing a finish.
Can you put PPF on matte paint or a repainted panel?
The film has to suit the finish. Tell us about matte paint, repairs or repainting before installation. Fresh paint needs the paint supplier’s curing time, and weak or peeling paint needs attention before film goes over it.
Can paint protection film be removed without damaging the paint?
Removal needs care, especially with old film or repainted panels. Weak paint can lift with the adhesive. Have the car inspected before removal rather than pulling the film off yourself.
Does PPF protect against hail?
PPF does not reliably prevent hail dents. It can help with small stone chips and surface wear, but hail can dent the panel underneath. Covered parking is the better protection when hail is forecast.
Can you replace PPF on just one damaged panel?
Often, yes. We need to see how the film was fitted and whether the paint underneath is damaged. Send photos of the affected panel for a replacement quote.
Follow the waiting period after installation, then wash gently with products approved for your film. Keep high-pressure spray away from the edges and avoid picking at them. These are the basics of PPF aftercare; your installed film’s instructions come first.
Is a clear bra the same as PPF?
Yes. “Clear bra” is a common name for clear paint protection film, especially on the front of a car. The term does not tell you which panels are included, so check the coverage in your quote.
The film, sun exposure, mileage and care all affect its life. A warranty term is not a promise that every installation will look new for that long. Ask which PPF is being fitted and what its written warranty covers.
Can I use PPF and ceramic coating together?
Yes. Paint protection film helps protect against small stone chips and scuffs; ceramic coating makes the surface easier to wash. Install the PPF first, then apply a coating made for that film. The coating can also go on prepared paint on panels without PPF.
Is ceramic coating over PPF worth it?
It can be if easier cleaning is your goal. Some PPF already sheds water well, so the benefit depends on the film you have and how you care for the car. Adding coating will not make the film chip-proof or remove the need to wash it.
Which goes on first: PPF or ceramic coating?
PPF goes on the prepared paint first. A compatible ceramic coating goes over the film after the required preparation and drying time. We’ll explain the timing for the products used on your car.
Can you install PPF over an existing ceramic coating?
Tell us about the coating before booking. The film needs a surface its adhesive can bond to, so the existing coating may need removing from the panels receiving PPF. That preparation needs to be included in your quote.
Can I get full-front PPF and ceramic coating on the rest of the car?
Yes. That lets you protect the front panels from small chips and make the rest of the paint easier to clean. A compatible coating can also go over the PPF. Your quote will list which panels get film, coating or both.
How much do PPF and ceramic coating cost together?
The price depends on your car, the amount of film, the coating and the paint preparation. Full-body PPF covers more of the car and takes more work than full-front PPF. Send us your year, make and model and the areas you want protected for a combined quote from our Colorado Springs studio.
The PPF provides the physical barrier against small stone impacts. Ceramic coating helps with cleaning; it does not add another thick layer of chip protection. A hard or sharp impact can still damage the film and the paint underneath.
Can you ceramic coat satin or matte PPF?
Yes, with a coating made for that film and finish. XPEL STEALTH is the matte-finish PPF. A suitable coating helps with cleaning while preserving that appearance. Tell us the film you have so we can check compatibility before applying anything.
How do I wash a car with PPF and ceramic coating?
Wait until the installer says both products are ready for washing. Use a gentle wash method and approved cleaners, keep pressure-washer jets away from film edges, and dry the car to reduce water spots. Neither PPF nor coating makes the car self-cleaning.
How long does ceramic coating last on PPF?
That depends on the coating, the film, exposure and maintenance. The film and coating have their own service lives and warranty terms; adding one does not reset the warranty on the other. Ask us for the care instructions and written coverage for both products.
How do I get a quote and book?
Send us your car’s year, make and model and tell us what you’d like done. Photos help if there’s old film or paint damage. We’ll work out the price and available dates with you before booking; sending the form does not book an appointment.
What’s included in my quote, and what does the warranty cover?
Your quote should list the product, windows or panels covered, preparation, price and expected timing. Warranty coverage depends on the product and is separate from installation workmanship. Ask us for the written terms for your installation, including exclusions, registration and how to make a claim.
Auto Vos is amazing. Caleb and his team are perfectionists and very reasonably priced. They always want to make sure their work is without the slightest blemish. They did a full wrap on my GT3 Touring and you can’t tell it is protected. Just the way it should…Read moreShow less
Auto Vos is amazing. Caleb and his team are perfectionists and very reasonably priced. They always want to make sure their work is without the slightest blemish. They did a full wrap on my GT3 Touring and you can’t tell it is protected. Just the way it should be!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
I took my Porsche Cayman to Auto Vos for a full XPEL PPF and Porsche decal replacement in May 2026. Caleb and his team's attention to detail with there PPF is 2nd to none. Caleb goes the extra mile to ensure the cornering, tucks, cuts and seems are…Read moreShow less
I took my Porsche Cayman to Auto Vos for a full XPEL PPF and Porsche decal replacement in May 2026. Caleb and his team's attention to detail with there PPF is 2nd to none. Caleb goes the extra mile to ensure the cornering, tucks, cuts and seems are meticulously done. I was impressed and the car looks fantastic! Caleb stands behind his company's work and corrects any imperfections that arise. Caleb was very kind, friendly, easy to work with, dependable, and honest (very important to me doing business). I will refer friends, family, and be returning myself.
Caleb at Auto Vos set me up right with a fully body stealth ppf for my M8. During the whole process he would take the time to update me with pictures/videos. It honestly came out great! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting this type of work…Read moreShow less
Caleb at Auto Vos set me up right with a fully body stealth ppf for my M8. During the whole process he would take the time to update me with pictures/videos. It honestly came out great! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting this type of work done to their vehicle
This is an absolute killer shop, and professional operation. Caleb and team are super attentive to detail and very willing to work with you to meet your needs. I had them PPF the front end of my WRX years ago, and just recently my Honda(tank, trim, and headlight).…Read moreShow less
This is an absolute killer shop, and professional operation. Caleb and team are super attentive to detail and very willing to work with you to meet your needs. I had them PPF the front end of my WRX years ago, and just recently my Honda(tank, trim, and headlight). I'm a fairly obsessive person when it comes to my vehicles and I'd be very hard pressed to find flaws. Edges are well hidden and seams are near perfect. If Caleb can wrap a naked bike tank and the front bumper of a VA WRX this nicely, he can probably do most anything to perfection.
