Do’s and Don’ts After Installing 3M Paint Protection Film on Your Vehicle

Everyone hesitates before applying a PPF on their car, and many do not know about it. But what about people who have already installed it but are unaware of what to do next? Don’t worry. This blog will relate the do’s and don’ts after one installs a 3M Paint Protection Film (PPF) on their vehicle.

It is also known as one of the best ways to preserve your car’s finish from road debris, bug splatter, salt, and UV damage. But it does not end with just application. Proper aftercare is mandatory so that the film gets the required time to bond well and perform as it is expected to. Read on to know what to do and not to do.

The Do’s—Set Your 3M PPF Up for Success

Do: Wait 48 Hours Before Washing Your Vehicle

After a PPF is installed, the adhesive needs time to cure so that it sticks well. If it gets in contact with moisture and pressure from washing, particularly touch washes, it can interfere with the curing. So, it’s better if you wait for at least two full days before you decide to wash the car.

Do: Hand Wash When Possible

Considering it to be the market leader in terms of quality, 3M PPF is durable. So if you hand wash the film after a few days or weeks, it helps prevent any possible edge-lifting from high-pressure sprays or automatic car wash brushes. Also, when you wash the surface, always use gentle cleaning products and wipe with soft microfibre mitts.

Do: Park Indoors When You Can

For the first few days after installation, you should be cautious of the coating remaining unscathed. If you cannot skip driving the vehicle, when parking, try to find a shaded area and generally keep it in a garage. This is important to avoid rapid temperature changes or excessive sun exposure on the 3M Paint Protection Film. Following this process will ensure that there is no bubble formation and the curing takes place properly.

Do: Use PPF-Safe Products

When cleaning or maintaining your vehicle, use products that are free from abrasives and harsh solvents. 3M PPF works well with pH-balanced car shampoos, detail sprays, and waxes specifically labelled as PPF-compatible.

Do: Monitor Edges and Corners

It’s normal for small areas near the edges to take a bit longer to settle. If you notice persistent lifting or air bubbles after a week, contact your installer. At Calgary Car Detailing, we offer post-installation checks to ensure a perfect finish.

Also, give our other blog a read to know how 3M PPFs help reduce micro-scratches from automatic car washes.

The Don’ts—Avoid These Common Mistakes

Don’t: Touch or Press Bubbles Right Away

If you see tiny water bubbles under the film during the first few days, don’t panic. These are common and usually evaporate as the film cures. Don’t press them out—you could damage the adhesive.

Don’t: Wax Immediately After Installation

Waxing your vehicle too soon can trap moisture under the film or interfere with bonding. Give it a solid 30 days before applying any wax or sealant. Always ensure your wax is PPF-safe.

Don’t: Use Pressure Washers at Close Range

High-pressure washers can lift the film at the edges if aimed too close. If you must use one, keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the film, and avoid spraying directly at the film’s edges.

Don’t: Pick at the Film’s Edges

Did you discover a loose edge or a dirty speck on your newly applied 3M PPF? You might be tempted to peel it off or scratch it. But we suggest you do not do that. Picking at the film can lead to it lifting more than it was already. Because even a small peel can spread. So contact professionals.

Final Thoughts—Protect the Protection

Installing a 3M Paint Protection Film is a meticulous investment that contributes to both long-term appearance and resale value. But to ensure that it delivers the maximum returns, car owners need to be aware of the appropriate method of aftercare. Thus, it does not end with PPF application.

At Calgary Car Detailing, we don’t just install film. We also take the initiative to guide you through every step, from purchase and application to post-installation care. Our services aim to meet the industry standards, and we ensure that your 3M PPF stays flawless for a long time.

Need a touch-up or post-install inspection for PPFs? Get in touch with us today.