There’s a lot of back-and-forth online about the best way to install PPF. Truthfully, there is no single way to do it right. But this doesn’t mean anything goes, either. Some techniques should be avoided, while others might make sense for you but not for someone else. Our experts break it down for you here, so you’re more prepared to talk with installers about getting PPF for your Tesla.
Install method matters, but not how you think.
There are two ways to install PPF: pattern and bulk (AKA custom). For pattern installation, software and patterns are used to cut PPF to fit. For bulk installation, PPF is cut free-hand to fit after being formed to a vehicle. An experienced PPF installation professional can deliver great results either way, but there is controversy. This is due to a misconception that bulk installation allows more coverage, while a precut pattern limits coverage.
Today, this just isn’t true. The latest patterns and software allow manipulation for individual coverage preferences, such as edge wrapping. So you can get PPF that’s truly customized with a bulk or pattern installation. What’s more important than the method of your install is the skill of your installer. You want them to be experienced and meticulous, whatever method they use. Also worth noting: if you have a custom aftermarket accessory or a vehicle that’s extremely new to the market, you’ll need the bulk method, because a pattern may not currently exist. So again: trust in your installer’s ability is key.
Edge wrapping isn’t always a must.
With an edge wrap, PPF is cut larger to apply around the edge of a part, instead of stopping at the edge. Wrapped edges are more protected and have a cleaner look, with fewer cut lines. So why wouldn’t you do this everywhere? Three reasons: 1) it can be more expensive, 2) some areas can’t be wrapped reliably, and 3) some car parts must be removed to be wrapped.
This is why a mix of wrapped and unwrapped edges is typical for PPF installation. What gets wrapped and what doesn’t can vary, though. Hoods, fender edges parallel to the hood, trunks and fender wells are commonly wrapped without removing parts. It’s not so easy for headlights and tail lights, which often require disassembly to get inside for wrapping. Know your comfort level with disassembly, and talk to your PPF installer about which areas they plan to wrap and how.
Parts can be removed and replaced safely.
If you want full coverage and as few cut lines as possible, your installer will have to remove parts from your Tesla, apply edge-wrapped PPF, then put them back. This isn’t a consideration with car parts that open, like your Tesla’s doors and hood. But with body panels there are gaps where the panel stops and starts, and you will see cut lines there unless the panel is removed. You can trust an installer with this if they have a lot of Tesla experience and take great pride in their work. Be sure to ask questions, listen closely, and be really comfortable with what you hear before you give the go-ahead – and definitely ask what the policy is, if damage occurs during installation. You might want to find out if your installer has Tesla mounting clips on hand too, in case one breaks.
Seams and cut lines aren’t necessarily a sign of bad work.
Seamless, edge-wrapped PPF coverage is ideal. There is nowhere for dirt and wax to build up and make PPF edges visible over time – especially a concern with lighter paint colors. Still, some seams and cut lines are practically unavoidable. When they are, a trustworthy pro will choose the best placement, to minimize how much they’ll be noticed and how much the PPF needs to be stretched. For a seamless look, an installer may suggest tucking a few millimeters of a film edge under trim. Avoid this; it doesn’t give PPF adhesive enough to hold onto, and properly aligned cut lines are difficult to identify anyway.
Tesla side mirrors and the Model 3 bumper are known to have cut lines that bother some owners, but most say it’s subtle. If you’re a perfectionist, you’ll want to search for an expert PPF installer skilled enough to overcome these quirks of Tesla construction, or have a plan to clean away the dirt that collects in these seams over time. SunTek PPF is solvent-resistant to make cleaning both PPF edges and surfaces stress-free.
You might not like the same PPF installer someone else does.
When you get an installer’s name from someone who has nothing but glowing praise, it makes solid sense to reach out. But don’t doubt yourself if you walk away from a conversation with that same installer feeling unwilling to commit. There is push and pull when it comes to choosing your preferred PPF install method, as well as deciding on details like seams and edge wrapping. You and the installer may have different comfort levels, and you need to talk it through. Some installers have tiered installation styles, too. Feel free to ask every potential installer as many questions as you like about their experience, techniques and policies. They should be willing to openly discuss all these topics, and respect your position as the owner of your Tesla. Frank discussion is the road to your most satisfying PPF results.
Speaking of discussion: we know there’s a lot to unpack here, and you likely have questions. Our SunTek PPF installation experts are happy to help out with anything you post in comments.
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