What Is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?
Paint Protection Film, often called PPF or clear bra, is a transparent, durable film applied to painted surfaces to help protect against rock chips, scratches, and everyday road damage.
It’s most commonly installed on high-impact areas like the front bumper, hood, fenders, and mirrors, where damage tends to happen first. Once installed, the film is nearly invisible and designed to take the hit so your paint doesn’t have to.
PPF isn’t a magic shield, but it does a good job reducing the kind of damage that builds up over time, especially on vehicles that see regular driving.
Common Areas We Protect With PPF
-
Front bumper
-
Hood (partial or full coverage)
-
Headlights and fog lights
-
Side mirrors
-
Front fenders
-
Rocker panels and lower doors
-
High-impact areas specific to your vehicle
Coverage options can be customized based on your vehicle type, preferences and what you would like protected.
🛡️ Partial Front PPF
Starting at $1,200
Entry-level protection for the areas most likely to take damage from daily driving and highway use.
What’s Included
-
Front bumper
-
Partial hood (typically the front 18–24")
-
Painted mirror caps
Best for
Daily drivers looking to reduce rock chips and road wear without full front coverage.
Backed by Geoshield's 10 Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Final pricing depends on vehicle size, paint condition, and coverage details.
🛡️ Full Front PPF
Starting at $2,200
Seamless protection across the entire front end for vehicles that see frequent highway miles or long-term ownership.
What’s Included
-
Full front bumper
-
Full hood
-
Full front fenders
-
Painted mirror caps
Best for
Drivers who want clean, uniform protection with no visible lines on the hood.
Backed by Geoshield's 10 Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Final pricing depends on vehicle size, paint condition, and coverage details.
🛡️ Full Vehicle PPF
Starting at $4,900
Maximum exterior protection for those who want to preserve their paint long term and minimize wear across all painted surfaces.
What’s Included
-
All painted exterior panels
-
High-impact areas customized to the vehicle
Best for
Long-term ownership, new vehicles, and drivers who want the highest level of paint preservation.
Backed by Geoshield's 10 Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Final pricing depends on vehicle size, paint condition, and coverage details.
Coverage Area varies by vehicle.
Our Paint Protection Film Installation Process
Paint Protection Film installation is all about preparation, fitment, and taking the time to do it cleanly.
Every vehicle is different, so the process is adjusted based on the condition of the paint and the coverage being installed.
We don’t rush installs or cut corners. The goal is a clean, consistent result that looks right once the vehicle is back on the road.
Vehicle Inspection & Prep
Before any film is installed, the vehicle is inspected and thoroughly cleaned. This includes removing surface contamination and addressing anything that could interfere with proper film adhesion.
If light polishing is needed to improve the finish before installation, that’s discussed up front.
Surface Preparation
The areas being protected are carefully prepped to ensure a clean bonding surface. This step is critical for long-term durability and clean edges once the film is installed.
Proper prep is what separates a good install from one that starts lifting or trapping debris later on.
PPF Installation
Paint Protection Film is installed panel by panel using vehicle-specific patterns or custom fitment where needed. The film is positioned, aligned, and worked into place to ensure consistent coverage and clean lines.
High-impact areas are given extra attention to ensure proper adhesion and a finished look.
Final Check & Curing Time
Once installation is complete, all edges and panels are carefully inspected. The film is given time to set and cure in a controlled environment before the vehicle is returned.
In most cases, we keep the vehicle overnight after installation to allow proper curing and to address any small adjustments before pickup.
Care instructions are reviewed so you know what to expect during the first few days after installation.
We’ll walk you through coverage options, timelines, and expectations before any work begins. No pressure. No upselling. Just clear communication.
Paint Protection Film FAQs
How long does Paint Protection Film last?
Most quality paint protection films are designed to last several years when properly installed and cared for. Longevity depends on driving habits, environmental exposure, and how the vehicle is maintained. While PPF isn’t permanent, it’s meant to provide long-term protection and can be removed or replaced when needed.
Will PPF damage my paint when it’s removed?
When installed and removed correctly, PPF should not damage factory paint. In many cases, it actually helps preserve the paint underneath by protecting it from chips, scratches, and UV exposure. Removal should always be done properly to avoid unnecessary risk.
Can you see the film once it’s installed?
Paint Protection Film is designed to be as clear and low-profile as possible. In most cases, it’s difficult to notice once installed. Depending on the coverage and vehicle shape, there may be subtle edges or seams, but the goal is always a clean, uniform appearance.
Is Paint Protection Film worth it on a daily driver?
Yes, and that’s actually where PPF makes the most sense. Daily drivers see the most exposure to road debris, highway miles, parking lot wear, and seasonal conditions. PPF helps reduce damage in high-impact areas before it adds up over time.
Does PPF replace ceramic coating or waxing?
The Paint Protection Film we install is ceramic-infused, which helps with gloss, water behavior, and easier cleaning compared to non-coated film. For many customers, that built-in ceramic layer provides plenty of everyday benefit on its own.
That said, ceramic-infused PPF doesn’t completely replace the purpose of a standalone ceramic coating on the rest of the vehicle. Some customers still choose to ceramic coat non-PPF areas for added protection and easier maintenance, while others are perfectly happy with the protection the film provides on its own.
We’ll walk through both options and make a recommendation based on how the vehicle is used, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What does Paint Protection Film NOT protect against?
PPF is not bulletproof. It won’t prevent damage from severe impacts, deep gouges, or accidents. It also won’t stop dents or eliminate all visible wear. Its purpose is to reduce everyday damage, not make a vehicle indestructible.
How do I care for my vehicle after PPF installation?
After installation, the film needs time to fully cure. We’ll go over post-install care at pickup, including when it’s safe to wash the vehicle and what to expect during the first few days. Routine washing and normal maintenance are all that’s needed once the film has settled.
Can PPF be installed on older vehicles or vehicles with existing paint damage?
PPF can be installed on virtually any vehicle, but existing paint damage, chips, or failing clear coat may affect the final result. We’ll inspect the vehicle beforehand and discuss whether PPF is a good fit.
What warranty does GeoShield CeramicShield PPF come with?
The CeramicShield Paint Protection Film we install is backed by a 10-year manufacturer warranty from GeoShield when professionally installed by an authorized installer like us. This warranty covers issues such as film delamination, yellowing, bubbling, and cracking under normal use.
To maintain the warranty, standard care and annual maintenance washes may be recommended, and warranty registration is required with GeoShield.
(This warranty applies to the original owner and typically requires proof of purchase and timely wash/maintenance history as outlined by GeoShield. Coverage may exclude damage from misuse, accidents, or improper washing techniques.)
If you’re unsure which coverage option makes the most sense for your vehicle, we’re happy to walk through it and make a recommendation based on how the vehicle is driven.
Ready to Protect Your Vehicle’s Paint?
If you’re considering Paint Protection Film and want to make sure it’s the right fit for your vehicle, we’re happy to walk through coverage options and answer any questions before scheduling.
Every vehicle is different, and we’ll recommend protection based on how it’s driven, not a one-size-fits-all package.
Located in Whitmore Lake, MI
Serving Brighton, Ann Arbor, Novi, and surrounding areas