Rocker panels gone beige on my M3 AWD white new may 23.

[zoomer0056]

I have seen several threads over the years about this PPF-like film over the rocker panels. I don't know if it is an actual self-healing PPF or some cheaper clear plastic film.

I think checking with Tesla is the right thing to do. If Tesla doesn't give you helpful info, I personally would try the following:

Assuming a normal car wash does not remove the yellowing, I would first try a PPF cleaner such as Xpel PPF Film Cleaner:

XPEL PPF Cleaner - (473 mL) (16 oz) (0.47 L)

www.xpel.com

If that doesn't work, I would try 99% Isopropol Alchohol, but I would first do a very small test spot to make sure the alcohol does not damage the film.

If that doesn't work, I might try a stronger all purpose cleaner such as Optimum Power Clean diluted 3 to 1:

Optimum Power Clean

Optimum Power Clean is an environmentally friendly, safe, yet powerful All Purpose Cleaner. The unique formula contains special polymers and emulsifiers br

optimumcarcare.com

Finally, if that doesn't work, then I might consider a PPF-specific polish such as Gyeon PPF Renew and do a light machine polish:

Q²M PPF Renew

Gyeon's Q²M PPF RENEW is a PPF polish combining light abrasive particles with protective additives, creating a resistant and self-cleaning finish.

gyeonusa.com

Or take the film off and put on Xpel PPF yourself. Use hot water on towel to soften the PPF and pull it off. You can order precut PPF from many places. If you buy Xpel, its guaranteed for 10 years against yellowing. Watch some youtube videos to figure out how to put the new piece on. I did my whole car myself and started with the rocker panels.

DIY PPF on 2022 Blue Model S

Model S is one week old. I've spent the last four months YouTubing PPF. This first post is practice on the front license plate holder which I will not put back on. It's a good test piece for practicing several techniques. There are compound curves in the corners, edges to wrap and circles to cut...

teslamotorsclub.com

 

[KenC]

I DIY'd my rocker PPF. About $200, 4yrs ago. Not Xpel, but 3M. No, mine hasn't yellowed after 4yrs. When the original post mentioned yellow, I was thinking he was talking the undercoat which has a yellowish-color.

 

[jbm1]

Update: still waiting on Tesla. The car should have been seen tomorrow, but just been informed there is a delay.

 

[jbm1]

Update - Tesla looking at the issue 21st February 8am.

 

[jbm1]

Update. Well, Tesla has not looked at the problem yet - orginal appointment 21st Feb cancelled - new time of Mon 26th Feb 9.30 am.

 

[jbm1]

Just back from Tesla. They have confirmed there is an issue. There is mis-colourisation, possibly due to lack of clear coat. Anyways, Tesla are going to fix it without cost to me - at a Tesla Approved body shop. So excellent service, despite the inconvenience. /

 

[jbm1]

Car's back from Tesla - re-sprayed and sealed. Very good standard. Perfekt.... so I'm happy again