PPF Coverage for High-Performance Vehicles

We are no strangers to high-performance vehicles at our detailing studio in Hampshire (close to Reading and the M4 and Basingstoke and the M3). So, in this article, we thought we would delve a little deeper into PPF coverage for these vehicles.

PPF Coverage for High-Performance Vehicles:

Generally, the type of vehicle has no bearing on the installation process. However, the shapes of panels might do, and high-performance or exotic cars are more likely to have complicated panels. We might need to adjust our slip ratios or solutions (we also use a thick install gel in specific applications instead of the soapy slip solution). This is because it can help where there are concave areas, tight turns, or panels that require a significant stretch that could mark the adhesive on high points.

We generally choose to install Ultimate Plus and, where appropriate, Ultimate Black. If the vehicle requires extra hydrophobicity or we feel it will be beneficial, we will apply a coating rather than use the coating-infused Fusion film. We might use Xpel’s Fusion coating (don’t confuse this with Fusion film) or a spray sealant. Ultimate Plus is much nicer to install than Fusion, and inevitably makes for a better install, plus I think the longevity of an applied hydrophobic coating is better.

PPF Lifespan for High-Performance Vehicles:

Talking very generally, owners of high-performance cars tend to cosset them a bit more. They often park them in a garage when they’re not in use. Some owners prefer not to take them out at all in grotty weather. Furthermore, owners often arrange for more pampering time and care during washing.

So, from that point of view, it might be fair to say the PPF coverage gets an easier time. On the other hand, if it’s the sort of car that might see a lot of high-speed driving, such as track use or group driving tours. Certain parts of the car might get a much harder time in these circumstances.

Sticky tyres will grab and throw stones and grit backwards more than usual. So, areas like sills, doors and rear quarters (especially the bit that swells out in front of the rear wheels) will take a battering from the front wheels all the time. It’s super important to protect these areas. In some cases, we’ve even doubled up on film. For example, we might cover Porsche 911 sills and rear quarters completely. After this, we’ve been known to install a factory-shaped ‘shark fin’ piece of PPF over the first install to maintain the OE look. We’ll also add an easier-to-replace, sacrificial piece in the area most likely to be damaged.

PPF Coverage: Specific Challenges on High-Performance Vehicles:

Getting the film to sit in deep recesses and follow unusual contours requires skill. Only a professional with experience understands how to manipulate the film. We have to manage the tension in these areas very carefully so as not to have the film spring back out after installation. We do this by first feeding the film into those areas, modifying our install solutions, using warm water and post-heating.

Furthermore, we need to consider where this film is in relation to hot components. Many supercars have mid or rear-mounted engines, and exhausts protrude from unusual places! Look at a McLaren 765 LT or 600 LT as examples; the extreme heat from exhausts can cause a film to melt.

Happy Customers from Reading, Basingstoke & Beyond:

We have many customers at our Basingstoke / Reading studio who enjoy their cars to the fullest extent possible and love the peace of mind that PPF coverage gives them. A husband and wife duo with a Ferrari 812 GTS, and a Ferrari F8 Tributo, use both cars for extensive European trips, and the film has saved their beautiful and expensive paint jobs.

We’re always happy to offer advice based on your budget and requirements but also on other customer’s experiences of the same or similar cars. Many regulars at our studio (close to Reading and the M4 and Basingstoke and the M3) like to report back to us on how they’re getting on.

We have often had people go for less PPF coverage, see paint chips appearing and say, ‘I wish I’d had film on the rear quarters, too’’, so’. So, I advise you to cover as much as possible when your vehicle is new because it’s only brand new once! Contact us for a custom quote.