How to Remove PPF film – Step-by-Step Guide

Nowadays every car owner wants to protect their car from PPF, but after some time they are concerned about how to remove PPF from their car. Because paint protection film lasts for 5 to 7 years, that’s why we also need to remove it. It’s very challenging to keep your vehicle’s finish all glossy. Paint protection films also known as clear bras have become popular among car lovers to safeguard their vehicle from scratches, swirl marks, corrosion, hard water marks, and other environmental hazards. But these PPF films also come with a life; you have to get them removed or replaced after years, let’s say in 5 to 7 years.

You should know the proper method to remove PPF effortlessly without hampering the paint beneath. In this blog, we will guide you on how to remove PPF, what safety precautions you should follow before removing old PPF, and some possible challenges faced in eliminating PPF.

Safety Precautions Before Removing Old PPF

When planning to remove the PPF, it is essential to prepare the surface of your vehicle first. Before you jump on reading “ how to remove paint protection film from a car”, you must read this section carefully before starting the process. To ensure that the vehicle’s paint does not come out off in PPF removal, follow below mentioned safety precautions:

• Wait for the correct weather
  

  While removing PPF, choose a day that is not too hot or cold. Wait for a typical day to ensure easy removal.

• Clean the surface
  

  Make sure there is no dirt or debris left on the surface, as it might cause minor scratches or swirl marks on the paint while removing PPF.

• Use proper equipment
  

  Use appropriate tools like a plastic scraper, heat gun, blow dryer, and microfiber towels to prevent unwanted marks when removing old PPF.

• Peel with Patience

  Begin peeling from a corner and go slowly. If it doesn’t come off quickly, apply a bit more warmth.

Possible Challenges Faced in Removing PPF

You might encounter the following potential challenges while you are removing the PPF:

• Paint Damage
  

  Make sure you hire a PPF expert to do this job because any negligence might cost you damaging your original paint. Some parts of your vehicle’s painted surface will get damaged and will reduce its resale worth.

• Adhesive Residue
  

  Sometimes, the PPF might leave some residue. This can be a tedious task to clean up, which will require special cleaners to avoid damaging the paint.

• Time-Consuming Job
  

  This is not a quick job. Removing PPF requires patience and time. Rushing through it can lead to mistakes and potentially damage the car’s surface.

• Corrosion of Film

  Over time, PPF can get yellow and cracked. This makes the removal process much more challenging because the film may not come off in one piece.

How to Remove PPF from Car – Step-by-Step Guide

If you are looking for simple guide on “how to remove paint protection film”, then you should follow the below steps:

Step 1. Gather your tools

It would be best to gather all the essential tools and equipment before beginning the PPF removal process. Below are some essential tools you will need to perform the job:

• Plastic scraper
• Heat gun
• Car wax
• Microfiber towel
• Quality Adhesive remover
• Gloves

Step 2. Clean the painted surface

To remove the film, you need to clean the area with a mild car cleaner and water so that no grime is left on the surface, which may affect the removal process. Soak the microfiber towel in the soap and water mixture, and wipe off the surface. To dry the surface, take a dry microfiber towel and wipe extra moisture. Using a microfiber towel is essential, as it will not cause scratches or swirl marks, and it will also catch all the leftover dirt from the exterior.

Step 3. Use Heat Gun

The very next step is to apply heat on the surface with the help of a heat gun or blow dryer to loosen up the surface. We do not recommend removing PPF without heating the surface, as heating will loosen up the film, and it will become more flexible. Be patient while you are doing this, as the original paint might come off along with PPF.

Step 4. Peel the film

Scrape the PPF further from the paint with a plastic scraper. While you are removing it, be gentle enough so that you don’t tear the film, as it will become challenging to peel the remaining film. Start peeling from the corner, and reheat the film if it is not coming off quickly.

Step 5. Remove remaining glue stains

Once you have successfully peeled off the film, you must look for the glue stains that PPF might leave. You can use a specific adhesive remover to do this work. For this task, avoid using scrapers or anything complex, even if it’s plastic because trapped particles can scratch your painted surface.

Final Words

To sum up, you might feel after reading this blog that it’s a piece of cake to remove PPF, but we highly recommend you to stick with all the information we have provided you regarding, “how to remove PPF film”. Generally PPF removal cost depends on if you are getting PPF removed or replaced. Generally the installer will bear the paint protection film removal cost, if the PPF is getting replaced in warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Qs)

Can PPF damage paint when removed?

Counting only on a professional detailer to remove Paint Protection Film from your vehicle would be best. An expert will carefully use proper tools and equipment to remove PPF without removing the original paint. In some cases, the glue will stick badly with the paint; in this case, the detailer will use the heat gun to loosen the adhesive, which will come off quickly.

Can PPF coating be removed?

Paint Protection Films lasts for 5 to 10 years. Once the film starts cracking and getting yellowing, it’s time to replace and remove Paint Protection Film. You must be curious to know how to remove PPF, but If you don’t want to damage the vehicle’s original paintwork, avoid peeling it off by yourself.

How many years can PPF last?

A good-grade PPF will last 5 to 10 years; if maintained properly, it might last a lifetime. The longevity of PPF depends greatly on driving conditions, daily wear and tear, and how often you take it maintenance. PPF will be worth it in the long-run, as will maintain your vehicle’s showroom finish after using it for years.

Is PPF bad for paint?

No, PPF is not at all bad for your original vehicle paint. It will shield your vehicle from various environmental hazards such as UV rays, rock chips, debris, gravel, and dust. PPF will keep your vehicle in flawless condition.

What is the best PPF remover?

PPF should be removed carefully only with the help of the heat gun. After peeling off the film, you can use an adhesive remover to remove the glue residue from the painted surface.