Does the CLEAR ARMOUR paint protection film resist yellowing?
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 of the film.
Will the paint fade differently under the film than the rest of the car?
No. The material contains UV inhibitors to prevent the film from reacting to the sun's rays, but still allows a certain amount to filter through the material and onto the surface to let the paint "age" with the rest of the vehicle.
How is the CLEAR ARMOUR Film maintained?
Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 7-10 days (Summer temperatures, colder weather requires longer dry time). This allows for proper adhesion of the film. Washing after that time presents no problem. We recommend a mild soap and water mixture. Although no special care needs to be taken for the film, the use of abrasive cleaners, hard brushes and rotary buffers on the chip guard film is not recommended and done so at your own risk. Use waxes that are non-petroleum based and do not contain dark dyes. Do not use any waxes not recommended for urethanes. Bug and tar removers are also not recommended. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used. We recommend Plexus Plastic Cleaner (available from us) to maintain the luster and remove any bugs or dirt that cannot be removed with soap and water.
Where on the car is the CLEAR ARMOUR protection film applied?
Each kit is engineered to cover the most vulnerable parts of your vehicle. This would include the front bumper, headlights, the hood and leading edges of the fender, and the front facing surfaces of the side mirrors. 95% of all rock chips are going to appear on the front facing portions of the vehicle. A secondary concern would be the area behind the wheels, the rocker panel and windshield pillars. Other areas prone to scratches would be door sills (from people getting in and out), door edges, door handle insets, top of the rear bumper (loading things into the trunk) and even on the roof to protect the paint from damage caused by roof racks.
Will the film harm my car’s paint?
No. The film is designed to allow the paint to breath for natural aging and is treated with UV inhibitors that protect the longevity of the film. The adhesive that bonds the film to the paint is extremely tough, but it will not scratch or harm the paint.
Can the film be removed once it has been applied?
Despite the films hi-tech adhesive designed to adhere for years, it can be removed safely from factory paint after several years without any effects to the car’s finish. (Note: The same film cannot be reapplied after it is removed). Both installation and removal do not damage the vehicle's paint if done by a professional installer. If you’ve recently had paint refinishing or touchups performed to your vehicle it is advisable that you consult with your body shop prior to having the protection film installed to be certain the new paint has been properly baked and dried along with an adequate clear coat layer. Note: The protection film if removed from non-factory paint jobs may lift the new paint. It is advisable to not remove the film in these cases.
How long will the CLEAR ARMOUR protection film last?
It is guaranteed not to yellow, crack or peel for 5 years. However, it has been proven to last upwards of ten years and up to 14 years in simulated laboratory tests. Although the film will not look like new forever, your vehicles' paint can!
What are the benefits of having the film installed?
Up until recently, there hasnâ€t been a way to effectively prevent rock chips from damaging the paint. Vinyl bras worked but they chaffed the paint and looked rather obtrusive. Now, the technology is available that adds so much more value to the vehicle. Our CLEAR ARMOUR Paint Protection Film will last almost indefinitely and will be protecting the vehicle 24 hours a day 7 days a week-UNNOTICED!. And, one of the best features of the film is it does not require any special maintenance.
What makes the film so effective at protecting paint?
It is constructed of tough, urethane, which is covered by a unique clear coat layer. Consider it to be like a trampoline that structurally is dense film, 8 mils thick. Its primary function is to absorb impacts. The film deflects debris, does not chip, pit or dull in shine as unprotected car paint will over time.
Can paint protection film be applied over a vehicle that has had the paint touched up?
All film manufacturers recommend 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 of the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off.
Can paint protection film be applied over a newly painted vehicle?
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. The vehicle must also be painted to a high quality OEM standard.If for any reason the film is removed at a later date there is possibility with non-factory paint jobs that the paint underneath may lift as well.
Will the painted surface be harmed if the film is removed?
If the film is properly applied to a factory painted vehicle, it can be removed, usually in one piece, without any damage to the paint surfaces beneath the film.
Can the film be applied over graphics?
The clear film will not interfere with vinyl or painted graphics and is designed to match the gloss levels of today's automotive factory clear coat paint systems, providing virtually invisible protection. However, if removed, damage may occur to the underlying graphic during the removal process.
What about headlight protection?
The headlight protection film kits are made of the same urethane composition. Light output is not diminished, and they do not alter your vehicles appearance. If you are a frequent highway driver, these are a necessity. Over time, headlights get pitted and loose their clarity (that foggy look). Eventually, lights can get so bad they need to be replaced either due to age or damage (broke or cracked from a flying rock thanks to that truck in front of you). The film will absorb impacts and prevent pitting, marring and keep them looking new. Please see our options page for more info.
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AUTO CLEAR ARMOUR MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IF THE INSTALLED PAINT PROTECTION FILM IS PROVED TO BE DEFECTIVE, THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY, AT THE DECISION OF AUTO CLEAR ARMOUR, SHALL BE TO REPAIR OR REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE PAINT PROTECTION FILM PRODUCT. Auto Clear Armour shall not otherwise be liable for loss or damages, whether direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential, regardless of the legal theory asserted, including, but not limited to, contract, negligence, warranty, or strict liability.
Below are answers to the most common questions we are asked. If you have a question that is not answered here please feel free to contact us.
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