Q.

Can I purchase Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film directly from 3M?

A.

3M sells larger rolls of film to selected 3M Authorized Distributors and Converters and not to end consumers. 3M does not manufacture vehicle-specific film kits nor does 3M install kits on consumer vehicles.

 

Q.

How much does it cost to have Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film installed on my vehicle?

A.

This is a question for your professional certified installer. There are many makes and models of cars, trucks, RVs and boats. On personal vehicles Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is most often used to cover the front portion of the hood. 3M film is also commonly applied to painted bumpers, mirror backs, truck bed rails, door edges, rocker panels, wheel openings, etc. Any painted surface of a car, truck, van, SUV, RV, boat or motorcycle that is susceptible to bug damage, rock chips, and scratches / scrapes can be covered with paint protection film. The amount of film required and difficulty of application will vary greatly by vehicle model. With 6+ years of experience dedicated to this product, there is nothing we can't handle. Please contact us for recommendations and price quotes.

 

Q.

Can I install Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film myself?

A.

3M strongly recommends that Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be installed by a fully trained and certified, professional certified installer. These are skilled certified installers in applying the film around compound curves, challenging grillwork, wheel openings, bumpers and all other areas on today's vehicles.

 

Q.

How can I get additional information about Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?

A.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. As a 3M Certified PPF Trainer with 6+ years of experience dedicated strictly to Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film, A-1 Automotive Solutions is a world leader in this industry.

 

Maintenance and Removal

Q.

Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film resist yellowing?

A.

Yes, it resists yellowing because the film is constructed of thermoplastic urethane, a tough, conformable material that is covered by a clear coat layer. The film and clear coat layers contain UV protectants to counteract harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause yellowing, but still allow the natural fading that occurs over time
on all vehicle paint.

 

Q.

Will Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film harm the painted surface if the film is removed?

A.

If the film is properly applied to a fully cured, properly painted vehicle, it can be removed, usually in one piece, without damaging paint surfaces beneath the film. In 6+ years we have never seen ANY damage to an OEM / manufacturer's painted vehicle. Don't be afraid to protect your vehicle unless the history of the paint
is questionable.

 

Q.

Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be applied over a vehicle that has had the paint touched up?

A.

3M recommends that any repainted surfaces on your vehicle be professionally painted and fully cured before applying paint protection film. If you have touched up scratches or chips with a tube of "touch-up" paint and then apply paint protection film over it, the film will protect that area until it is removed. If the paint protection film is removed, it is possible that the area around the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off.

 

Q.

Will the paint smear if Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is applied over a newly painted vehicle?

A.

The paint on a newly painted vehicle must be cured according to manufacturer's recommendations. Your body shop should be able to provide you with this information.

 

Q.

Can you paint or apply a clearcoat over the Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?

A.

No, this is not recommended and is at your own risk. 3M film is supplied with an OEM-approved clearcoat which is not formulated to be over-printed, painted or clearcoated.

 

Q.

Can I cover the whole vehicle with Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?

A.

It is possible, but the application would be difficult and expensive. This product is really intended for the most vulnerable areas of the vehicle. The larger the area to be protected, the more involved and expensive the application will be.

 

Q.

Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be applied over graphics?

A.

The clear film will not interfere with vinyl or painted graphics and is designed to match the gloss levels of today's automotive factory clearcoat paint systems, providing virtually invisible protection. However, if the Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is removed, damage may occur to the underlying graphic during the removal process.

 

 

Q.

How much does the film cost

A.

Because each car is different and protection area is up to the individual, costs are determined on a few factors. To get a price quote on the film and/or installation, simply click here.

 

Q.

Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film stick to bumpers?

A.

Yes, as long as the area being protected is a painted surface.

 

Q.

Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film stick to plastic?

A.

Yes.

 

Q.

Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used on boats or other watercraft?

A.

Yes. Marine requirements are different than automotive, so it is important to contact 3M's Marine Trades Division for information on these applications. For specific information, please call 3M Marine at 1-877-366-2746 for assistance.

 

Q.

Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used on aircraft?

A.

Aircraft requirements are completely different than automotive, so it is important to contact 3M's Aerospace Division for information on these applications. Please call 1-888-364-3577 for assistance or use the on-line 3M Aerospace Contact Us form.

 

Q.

Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film to used for signs?

A.

The film would probably stick, but you would need to test any specific application. 3M has no specific testing data for signs, so no warranty can be offered.

 

Q.

Can I use wax over Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?

A.

Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft cloth, such as a 3M™ High Performance Cloth. Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used.

 

Q.

Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film come in colors?

A.

Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is available only as a clear film. This feature makes the film virtually invisible while protecting the beauty of your vehicle.

 

Q.

How is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film maintained?

A.

Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 24 hours. Washing after that time presents no problem, and no special care need be taken for the film.

 

 

 

 

 

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