Paint Protection Film (PPF) Installation – Terms and Conditions

Scope of Application

These Terms & Conditions apply to all paint protection film installations performed by the Company, including both standard (clear) and colored/matte PPF products. Coverage depends on film type and installation date. For clarity, “PPF” refers to any factory-manufactured paint protection film applied to a vehicle’s painted surfaces. All warranties and disclaimers herein apply from the installation date forward and are subject to the limitations stated below.

Warranty Coverage Duration and Terms

The warranty term varies by film type and manufacturer standards. High-end PPF programs typically offer up to 10 years of coverage, whereas many colored or specialty (matte) films may carry shorter terms (often around 5–7 years). Warranty coverage begins on the date of installation and covers only the specific vehicle and film installed. Installation by an authorized, certified installer is required to activate and preserve full warranty rights; any work by non-certified or unauthorized personnel voids manufacturer coverage. The original purchase invoice and registration are necessary to establish the warranty period.

Coverage Details (Defects Covered)

Within the warranty period, the film is covered against manufacturing and material defects. This generally includes defects in the film itself such as yellowing/discoloration, bubbling or blistering, cracking or splitting, loss of optical clarity, and delamination from the vehicle surface. Some programs also warrant the film’s self-healing properties (e.g. the ability to “heal” light scratches with heat) and proper adhesion on correctly prepared paint. In the event of a covered defect, the exclusive remedy is typically replacement (or repair) of the defective film portions at no cost for parts and labor.

Replacement film (if available) will be the most comparable product at the time; any repaired or replaced portion remains under the original warranty term, which is not extended by the repair.

Exclusions

Damage or defects not caused by manufacturing flaws are not covered. Specifically, the warranty excludes:

  • Physical impact or external damage: Chips, dents, or punctures from road debris (rock chips) are not covered. Similarly, damage from collisions, accidents, vandalism, hail, floods, fires, or other “acts of nature” is excluded.
  • Misuse or accidents: Any damage resulting from misuse, negligence, or abuse (e.g. keying, pressure-washer misuse, or collision damage) voids coverage. Normal wear and tear (minor scratching or abrasion) is also excluded.
  • Unauthorized alterations or installation: Film applied by non-certified installers, or any do-it-yourself installation, is not covered. Warranty is void if the film is installed over damaged or unrepaired paint, or on panels not properly refinished after bodywork. Likewise, applying unapproved aftermarket coatings (e.g. solvent-based sealants) may void the warranty.
  • Chemical or environmental damage: Exposure to harsh chemicals or cleaning agents (such as strong solvents, acids, or petroleum products) that damage the film is not covered. Stains or etching from environmental contaminants (acid rain, tar, tree sap, bird droppings, etc.) are generally not covered if the film’s surface is not maintained. Long-term ultraviolet exposure or color fading beyond typical aging (especially if film is improperly maintained) may fall outside warranty scope.
  • Improper maintenance or cleaning: Failure to follow recommended care (see below) — such as using abrasive cloths, scrubbing brushes, or incompatible chemicals — may void the warranty. Water spotting or stains caused by neglect are excluded.

In summary, the warranty protects against defects inherent to the film and installation, but does not cover damage from external events, improper use, or neglect.

Maintenance and Care Requirements

To maintain warranty validity, the vehicle owner must follow all care guidelines:

  • Hand-wash only: Wash the vehicle regularly (at least monthly) with a mild, pH-neutral automotive soap. Avoid automatic or brush-style car washes, as abrasive brushes can scratch or lift the film and may void the warranty. If hand washing is impractical, use a touchless or non-contact wash.
  • Post-installation waiting period: Do not wash or wax the vehicle for at least 48 hours after film installation. This allows the adhesive to fully cure.
  • Gentle cleaning: Use soft microfiber towels or wash mitts. Do not use harsh abrasives, stiff brushes, or scouring pads. Avoid high-pressure water streams on the film edges, as this can lift the edges and void coverage.
  • Approved products: Use only cleaning products and waxes that are explicitly safe for PPF. For instance, water-based or spray-on waxes are recommended over abrasive polishing compounds. Promptly remove contaminants (insect remains, bird droppings, tree sap) with appropriate PPF-safe cleaners to prevent etching.
  • Drying and waxing: After washing, dry the vehicle with a soft, clean cloth or air blower. If waxing is desired, use non-abrasive spray waxes only. Do not use rubbing compound or abrasive polishes, especially near film edges.
  • Regular inspection: Periodically inspect the film for debris or damage. Keep the film well-maintained to ensure longevity. Note: Failure to maintain the film according to these guidelines may void the warranty.

Following these maintenance practices helps prevent avoidable damage and ensures coverage remains in effect.

Transferability

This warranty is generally provided only to the original vehicle owner. Warranty rights may transfer to a subsequent owner only if the new owner submits proof of the original purchase and installation date to the manufacturer or authorized agent. Transfer (if permitted) covers only the remaining portion of the original warranty period. In any case, the warranty is valid only for the vehicle (identified by VIN) on which the film was originally installed, and only if all terms herein have been met.

Claim Process

To make a warranty claim, the owner must provide documentation and follow established procedures:

  1. Contact the Installer First: Report any suspected defect to the original installer promptly. The installer (or service center) will typically perform an initial inspection to confirm whether the issue appears to be covered.
  2. Provide Proof of Purchase: Present the original receipt/invoice and any warranty registration or card obtained at installation. This documentation establishes the date of service and verifies eligibility.
  3. Photographic Evidence: Take clear photos of the film defect and surrounding areas. Images (multiple angles) can help the installer and manufacturer evaluate the claim.
  4. Manufacturer Referral: If the installer is unavailable or needs assistance, contact the film manufacturer’s warranty department. The manufacturer may direct you to a qualified installer or distributor for evaluation. For example, major PPF makers typically require the customer to work with a certified installer or designated representative to assess the claim.
  5. Inspection and Resolution: A professional inspector (installer or manufacturer appointee) will examine the film to distinguish covered defects from excluded damage. If a defect is covered, the remedy is usually film replacement or repair. The installer will perform the approved remedy at no charge for parts or labor. If the specific film originally used is unavailable, a comparable product of similar quality may be provided.
  6. Timely Submission: Follow any deadlines for filing claims. Many warranty programs require claims or registrations to be initiated within a certain time frame after purchase or installation. Failure to do so may forfeit coverage.

Throughout the process, cooperate fully: allow inspections, provide requested information, and avoid modifying the film. Keep copies of all correspondence and documentation until the claim is resolved.

Legal Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

No Other Warranty: Except as expressly stated above, this warranty is the sole and exclusive warranty for the film installation. All implied warranties and conditions (including those of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose) are limited in duration to the applicable warranty period. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on implied warranties, so this limitation may not apply to all owners.

Limitation of Remedies: The replacement or repair of defective film is the exclusive remedy provided under this warranty. Neither the manufacturer nor the installer shall be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages arising out of the film’s use, installation, or failure. This includes, without limitation, costs of transporting the vehicle, loss of use, or damage to any other parts of the vehicle. Some states may not allow exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to all customers.

No Liability for Consequential Issues: Under no circumstances will the Company or film maker cover paint damage caused by film removal or by defects outside the film itself. Any damage to the vehicle’s paint or body caused by outside factors, removal processes, or unrelated pre-existing defects is not covered.

Governing Law: These terms shall be governed by the laws of the jurisdiction where the installation was performed, subject to any mandatory local consumer protections.

Installation Requirements and Certification

For warranty coverage to remain valid, all PPF installations must be performed by trained, certified professionals using manufacturer-approved methods. Key points include:

  • Installer Certification: The vehicle must be serviced by an installer who is certified or authorized by the film manufacturer. Warranty programs explicitly require professional installation; self-installation or work by uncertified shops voids coverage.
  • Surface Preparation: The vehicle’s paint must be in sound condition prior to installation. Any paint repairs (from damage or bodywork) must be fully cured and, if required by the film maker’s guidelines, the panels should be refinished or “re-wrapped” before applying PPF. Application over untreated chips or fresh paint is not covered.
  • Installation Environment: Installers should apply PPF in a clean, climate-controlled facility to prevent dust, debris, or moisture from contaminating the film. After installation, the vehicle should be stored or operated in normal conditions (extreme humidity or temperature immediately post-installation may affect adhesive bonding).
  • Professional Standards: Proper edge sealing and trimming techniques must be used. Warranty coverage may be void if the film develops lifting, peeling, or edge defects due to poor installation practices.
  • Adherence to Guidelines: Installer should follow all manufacturer instructions (dry times, curing methods, tool usage). Deviating from these instructions (for example, accelerating curing with heat not recommended by the maker) could invalidate the warranty.

By adhering to these installation standards, both parties help ensure that the PPF will perform as intended. The Company retains the right to refuse warranty service on any film that shows signs of improper installation or preparation.

These Terms & Conditions summarize common industry practices and manufacturer guidelines for PPF installations. They are intended for clarity and legal compliance; consult your installation agreement for any additional terms specific to your service. All warranties are subject to the precise language issued by the film manufacturer.