Frequently Asked Questions

Paint Protection Film
Headlight Protection Film
Ceramic Coating
Automotive Window Film
Can The Film Be Waxed?

While you can wax the film, be sure the product you are using doesn’t contain Naphtha or Kerosene in concentrations over 5% and avoid waxes that contain dyes. For best results, we recommend using our XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant or XPEL Ceramic Boost. This product has been specially formulated for use with polyurethane paint protection films to provide the maximum protection and gloss while containing no ingredients that would cause discoloration over time.

Can XPEL Be Installed On Signs?

Yes. Paint protection film can be applied to the most smooth painted surfaces.

What Is The Expected Life Of XPEL?

Our ULTIMATE PLUS PLUS Series Films are warrantied for 6 years. This warranty covers: delaminating, cracking, peeling, and bubbling.

Can I Use Detailing Clay On The Film?

Yes. The process is the same as with regular paint: wet the surface with a lubricant such as XPEL Detail Spray or soapy water and then gently rub the surface with the clay bar. For stubborn insect, bird dropping, or hard water stains, use an all-purpose degreaser. 

How Do I Maintain XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS?

No special maintenance is required for XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS. However, the film will last longer and will be easier to clean if treated twice a year with XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant.

Can XPEL Film Be Applied To Chrome?

Any of our films can be installed on Chrome, though the finish will look slightly different than if left unprotected. We recommend having your installer apply a small swatch to the desired surface so you can see what it looks like before deciding. 

Will XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS Yellow Over Time?

XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS is warrantied for 6 years against a range of issues including yellowing. To ensure the continued validity of the warranty, it is advised to schedule regular maintenance appointments. Advisable every 6 months for black or dark paints, whereas, every 3 months for white or light paints, starting from the date of purchase.

How Deep Of A Scratch Can Film Still Heal?

The clear coat is the self-healing layer and is approximately 13 microns thick. If that layer is penetrated, the film will not heal.

Do You Have A First Time Buyer Discount?

Not at this time, please contact customer support for more information.

Can XPEL Be Installed On Your Windshield?

No, XPEL Paint protection film cannot be installed on your windshield. Due to the impact absorbency of paint protection film, the refractive index of the film is too different from that of the windshield. Because of this difference, putting the two together causes a distortion when looking through the glass that would be unacceptable to the vehicle’s occupants.

How Much Does Paint Protection Film Cost?

Because the product is installed by independent installers, cost varies greatly based on location, labor rates, and installer experience. To get an estimate from a local installer nearest you.

What If My Installation Was Done Incorrectly?

It is always best to contact your XPEL installer first and explain your concerns. We do our best to maintain a network of installers that stand behind their work. If after doing so, your installer cannot or will not address your concerns to your satisfaction, please contact our customer service team for assistance. They will get you in touch with the XPEL Representative for your area who will work to find a solution to the issue.

Can I Cover My Whole Vehicle With XPEL Film?

Yes. Most smooth painted surface can be covered with paint protection film.

Can XPEL Be Installed On My Airplane Or Aircraft?

Paint protection film can be applied on any smooth painted surface. However, given the tight tolerances on weight, balance and other factors on some aircraft, it is highly recommended to consult with the manufacturer of the airplane for strict guidance.

How Can I Wax STEALTH Without It Looking Shiny?

If you want to protect your STEALTH paint protection film, we recommend using our XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant or XPEL Ceramic Boost. When applying the sealant, work in small areas thoroughly wiping away all excess before moving on to the next section. Test an inconspicuous spot for application technique as the installation is difficult due to the satin finish.

Can I Run My Car Through An Automatic Car Wash?

Yes, but please wait at least 48 hours after installation to allow the film to dry completely.

What Happens If You Put Acry-Solvent On The Film?

Acry-solvent, or any other Xylene-based solvent, will not harm the film unless left sitting saturated in it for an extended period. To use this type of solvent on the film (for removing stains, etc.) wet a microfiber towel with the product and wipe the film for one or two minutes. If the stain remains, allow the solvent to evaporate and then repeat the process.

Can XPEL Be Installed On Boats And Other Watercraft?

Yes, while XPEL can be installed on marine boats and watercraft, the warranty varies on applicable surfaces. You can contact our HQ for clarification on this matter.

Can I Use A Pressure Washer, And How Soon After Install?

Yes, pressure washers can be used on XPEL paint protection films, provided the film has completely dried after installation (typically 48 hours) and provided the high-pressure water is not pointed directly at the edges of the film.

Can I Install XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS Paint Protection Film Myself?

Other than the simplest body panels, application of paint protection film is a process which requires a good deal of experience and training to obtain satisfactory results. The compound curves present on most surfaces require the film to be stretched and compressed in a very controlled way to ensure proper adhesion without distorting the adhesive. As such, it is highly recommended that the film is professionally installed.

Will Removing The Film Harm The Vehicles Paint, Once Removed?

It is highly unlikely for paint protection film to harm OEM paint. Paint systems used on modern assembly lines today produce a minimum bond strength of 16 MPa and a maximum of 25 MPa between the panel and the paint depending on color, iridescence, and the system used. Our film’s bond to the painted surface at normal state (immediately following installation) is .0753 MPa. Even after years of heat and sun, the bond between the film and the paint increases to only 0.17 MPa. What that means is in the absolute worst-case scenario, the bond of factory paint to the panel is over 94 times stronger than the bond of our film to the paint. In the best case, the paint is 332 times stronger.

That being said, it is still recommended to have a professional remove the film in accordance with our published guidelines.

If I Apply A Ceramic Coating To STEALTH, Will It Make It Shiny?

It depends on the coating. Some may deepen the finish while others may add unwanted gloss. We recommend testing the coating on a swatch of unused film or in an inconspicuous area before coating a protected panel. We recommend using XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating, our ceramic coating was designed with paint and XPEL Paint protection film in mind.

Can I Have XPEL Installed Over My Vinyl Wrap Or Racing Stripes?

Yes. XPEL film can be applied over a vinyl wrap or graphics. However, if there are any hard edges that film must cross (as in the case of stripes), it could result in some air being trapped along that edge.

Can XPEL Be Installed On Your Vehicles Headlights And Fog Lights?

Yes, XPEL can be installed on your cars headlamps and fog lamps.

How Do I Wash The Film, Can I Use A Quick Detailer Or Detail Spray?

We recommend using the XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash, combined with the XPEL Detail Spray and Ceramic Boost for increased cleanliness and slickness.

Can XPEL Be Applied Over A Vehicle That Has Had Paint Touch Ups?

Yes. Though you can install the film over any quality of touch-up, the best possible appearance will be obtained if the touched up area has been color-sanded smooth and buffed after the application of the paint.

Can XPEL Film Be Installed On The Glossy Interior Panels Of My Car?

Yes. XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS can be applied to any smooth surface, though care should be taken around any electronics and/or switches so that installation fluids aren’t allowed to get into sensitive areas.

Can XPEL Paint Protection Film Be Installed On A Brand New Vehicle?

Yes, the most factory paint is fully cured before the car ever leaves the assembly line.

What Can I Use To Clean The Film With If The Film Cleaner Isn’t Working?

XPEL Film Cleaner is generally designed to remove dirt, grime, and oils from paint protection film that lead to yellowing over time. To remove stains from other substances such as insects, bird droppings, or other compounds, use acetone or lacquer thinner with a soft microfiber cloth.

If I Get A Partial Front End Wrap, Will The Edge Of The Film Be Noticeable?

While the edge of the film can be seen from certain angles, people generally do not notice it unless they are looking for it. However, if the car is dirty and dust and dirt can collect along the edge of the film, it will be more noticeable. Once the car is cleaned, it will be once again difficult to detect unless looking for it.

A Piece Of Road Debris Scratched The Film On My Car. Will This Self-Heal?

The self-healing clear coat of our ULTIMATE PLUS and STEALTH films is designed to repair itself from swirl marks and light scratches from car washes, etc. If a piece of debris has penetrated all the way through the clear coat on the film, it will not self-heal. The only way to fix this would be to have the piece of film replaced.

How Can I Remove The Excess Adhesive After I Removed The Film Myself?

If there is left over adhesive upon removal, you can use a general-purpose adhesive remover, often found at your local auto parts or home improvement store.

Does The 6-Year Warranty On ULTIMATE PLUS Transfer To Another Owner If Car Is Sold?

The XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS Film Series warranty is transferable to another owner with proof of purchase.

Once The Film Has Been Removed From My Vehicle, Can I Re-Use It On Another Vehicle?

No, the film once applied and removed cannot be reused.

Can I Install XPEL Paint Protection Film On Aluminum Or Brushed Metal Accents On The Car?

Any of our paint protection films can be installed on aluminum or brushed metal, though they may change the appearance to some degree depending on the film you choose. We recommend having your installer apply a small swatch of the film to the surface in question to determine the appearance prior to full installation.

What Is The Best Polish To Put On Your Car After You Have Had It Wrapped With XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS?

We recommend using our XPEL Flawless Finish Paint Protection Film Sealant. This product has been specially formulated for use with polyurethane paint protection films to provide maximum protection and gloss while containing no ingredients that would cause discoloration over time. We also recommend XPEL Detail Spray and/or Ceramic Boost for added slickness and ease of cleaning.

My Car Dealer Applied A Paint Sealant To My Vehicle, Can I Have XPEL Installed Over This Protectant?

Waxes, sealants, and protectants are typically designed to reduce the surface energy of the paint, making them easier to clean, etc. A reduction in surface energy will reduce the film’s ability to adhere to the paint and could cause long-term adhesion issues. Because of this, we generally recommend removing these types of products before installation. If these types of coatings are to be used, we recommend applying them AFTER the installation of our paint protection film.

Can I Apply A Ceramic Coating On Top Of The Film And How Does It Affect The Self-Healing Feature Of XPEL?

Yes, Coatings can be applied to the films. Adding a coating does not stop the film from self-healing. Coatings can add a protective layer over the film, which depending on the coating can provide different properties (Please contact your installer or coating company for more information). That additional coating layer, depending on the coating applied, may or may not self-heal. Once the coating wears down and deteriorates, the self-healing qualities of XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS and STEALTH will remain. We recommend XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating. Our ceramic was specifically formulated for your vehicles paint and XPEL Paint protection film.

Can I Have XPEL Paint Protection Film Installed On Top Of My Ceramic Coating?

We would not recommend this, as it may result in poor adhesion to the painted surfaces. Professional removal of the ceramic coating is recommended. You may install XPEL FUSION PLUS on top of your XPEL Paint Protection Film. Check with your local installer for more details.

How Do You Remove The Material And What Kind Of Residue Or Marks Does It Leave On Clear Coat Type Paint?

Please see the diagram on www.xpel.com/care and be sure to use a steamer or heat gun to soften and warm the adhesive. This will yield the best possible results and will leave little if any adhesive behind. Any traces of residue left behind can be removed with any commercially available adhesive remover that is safe for automotive paint.

What Would Be The Best Way To Protect The Rocker Panels On My Truck From Getting Damaged From Rocks And Road Debris?

We offer pre-cut rocker panel coverage for most trucks and SUVs that can be professionally installed by our independent dealer network. Visit our Installer Locator for an installer near you for a quote.

We also make a rocker panel DIY kit to help protect your rocker panels. This product is available in our XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS film or our XPEL ARMOR film. ULTIMATE PLUS is our clear self-healing paint protection film, while ARMOR is a rugged film that is black and has texture similar to a spray in bed liner.

Can You Wrap A Whole Car In The Same Way You Can Color Change A Vehicle (Dismantling First) From Bulk Pieces Of Paint Protection Film?

Yes, assuming you and the installer are both comfortable with the risk, there is nothing about the film that would prevent this from being done. We also have designs for most body panels on nearly every vehicle, which would allow installation without dismantling the vehicle.

Can I Install A Vinyl Stripe On Top Of XPEL Paint Protection Film And Will I Be Able To Remove The Stripe Without Damaging The Clear Protection?

Yes, you can install vinyl on top of the film. We recommend waiting 48 hours after installation before doing so. You may also remove the stripe without damaging the film if removed properly.

Do You Make A Clear Film That Could Be Used To Protect A Windshield Without Distorting One’s View, Or Breaking The Glass Due To Expansion/Contraction?

No. We do not currently offer a windshield protection film.

When I Wear Polarized Sunglasses, My Paint Protection Film Appears To Have Blemishes And Distortions, Why Is That?

This is a very common occurrence with Paint Protection Film of all brands. It has to do with the difference in refractive index between the layer of film and the paint on the car. It is most noticeable on compound-curved surfaces because the film must be stretched over these areas to allow it to be installed without wrinkles. When the film is stretched, it becomes slightly thinner in those areas which cause the phenomenon seen through polarized glasses.

It can also occur on flat surfaces when the installer needs to use a drying solution (as opposed to a slip solution) such as alcohol and water to get the needed bond to the paint. This is due to the difference in viscosity of the fluids and their effect on the adhesive’s properties.

Polarized glasses have this effect on several different multi-layer surfaces (not just paint protection film) made of glass or plastic.

Can XPEL Be Installed On Your Vehicles Headlights And Fog Lights?

Yes. XPEL can be installed on your cars headlamps and fog lamps.

I Have Installed The Kit On My Headlights And They Looked Fine, But Now They Look Foggy. Did I Do Something Wrong?

When using the wet application technique, this is normal. The fog is the result of the alcohol/water solution evaporating from beneath the plastic. The water vapor that is produced results in a hazy appearance for several days. The haze will clear as the vapor dissipates.

Is It Best To Apply Your Light Protection Kit To The Lenses Wet Or Dry?

We have found that the wet installation yields the best-looking installation with the least amount of difficulty in most cases. On larger headlamp pieces, bubbles and improper alignment of the material are far less likely using the wet installation method. However, on smaller pieces, such as fog lamps, the dry installation method is sometimes easier. This is especially the case if the lamp is spherical in shape.

I Have The Headlamp Kit Almost Completely Applied Using The Wet Application Method, But I Can’t Seem To Get The Edges To Completely Stick Down. What Am I Doing Wrong?

It is imperative that a hairdryer or heat gun is used in this area to seal the edges. The heat serves two purposes. First, it helps evaporate the remaining alcohol/water solution from under the edges, and second, it makes the plastic more pliable so that it can contour to the shape of the light. Be careful if you are using a heat gun to warm the plastic. It takes only a small amount of heat to apply the material. If you apply too much heat you can damage the surface of the plastic.

What If I Want To Remove The Headlamp Shields At A Later Date?

The removal process is just a matter of warming the plastic and peeling them off. They will require some muscle to get them off, but they normally peel off without any residue left on the lens. If any adhesive at all remains behind, it may be removed by simply rubbing it with your thumb. The adhesive will then ball up and roll off.

What Is The Warranty Period For Your Window Films?

We offer a transferable lifetime warranty on the following lines of our window film (XR Plus, XR, and XC5). The warranty covers cracking, peeling, bubbling, delamination, fading, and color change for the life of the film. The warranty is transferable and will continue with the car even in the event the ownership change.

Do You Offer Residential/Commercial Window Films?

Yes, we introduced XPEL VISION in early 2019 and has been an industry leader since its launch.

When Removing The Film Does The Adhesive Stay On Glass Or On Film?

Our window film is designed to with a very strong adhesive for durability, upon removal of the window film the adhesive may not fully transfer to the film and will remain on the glass. Your installer will be able to remove this during the installation process.

Can XPEL Window Film Be Used On Plexiglass?

We do not recommend installing XPEL PRIME Series Window Film to Plexiglass or plastic windows.

What Are The Benefits Of Window Film?

The many benefits of window film include heat reduction, eye comfort, UV protection, aesthetics, and increased safety, privacy, and energy savings.

What Do The Different Shades Of Film Mean?

Film percentages stand for visual light transmission (VLT), or the amount of light that is allowed through the film. The lower the percentage, the darker the film. With modern advances in window film, you can have great heat rejection with lighter films, no need to have dark window tint to receive the heat rejection benefits.

I Just Had My Windows Tinted, Why Do They Look Hazy?

The moisture that remains between the film and the glass after installation can cause a hazy, streaky, blotchy appearance. It takes several days for the film to completely cure. The remaining moisture will evaporate through the film; depending on the type of film, this process may take a couple of days, or even a couple of months (depending on your climate). When the water evaporates completely, your windows should have excellent clarity.

Is The Tint Applied To The Outside Of The Window?

No. Window film is installed on the inside of the glass. This allows for maximum durability

What Should I Use To Clean My Windows After I Have Had Them Tinted?

After window film installation, wait a week before cleaning the inside of the window where the film was installed. After a week, use XPEL Anti-Static Window Film Cleaner with a soft microfiber cloth. Never scrape the film with any type of blade or clean your tinted windows with anything abrasive, as it will scratch the film.

Do I Need To Wait To Roll My Windows Down?

We recommend that you leave your vehicle windows rolled up for at least 24-36 hours after the window film has been installed. This allows the film to cure and adhere to the glass before the window is moved.

Does Blocking UV Rays Help Prevent Fading And Deterioration

Yes. The same sun that brightens your car’s interior can be detrimental to fabrics, leather, dashboard, and other interior surfaces. Ultraviolet rays are the main cause of both fade and deterioration. XPEL window films can screen up to 99% of the damaging UV rays that can fade surfaces.

What Is In FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating?

FUSION PLUS uses Silicon Dioxide technology. It is a complex chemical matrix that is unique to us. A combination of several technologies that cross-link very strongly to form a strong 9H coating.

What Are The Benefits Of A Ceramic Coating?

Ease of maintenance, hydrophobic properties, and self-cleaning properties.

How Long Will My FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coatings Last?

FUSION PLUS is backed by a 5-year warranty. We strongly recommend customers return to the shop for a “glossy refresh” annually and use XPEL Ceramic Boost spray to help protect the finish and enhance the hydrophobic properties.

Is FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF Scratch Resistant?

Yes, FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF is a 9H ceramic coating that is scratch resistant.

How Many Days Before You Can Wash The Car? After Having XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coatings Applied To My Vehicle?

A full cure takes approximately 3 days – full cure should be reached before washing the vehicle (time may need to extend depending on conditions).

Do You Offer A Marine Coating For FUSION PLUS?

Yes, XPEL FUSION PLUS MARINE is designed to help protect your watercraft’s surface.

Do You Offer An Aircraft Coating For FUSION PLUS?

No, we currently do not offer an aircraft ceramic coating.

Does The Warranty Apply To A Loss Of Hydrophobicity?

No, the warranty covers as follows: FUSION PLUS will help protect your vehicle’s paint finish against oxidation, loss of gloss, UV damage, Bug impacts, color fading and acid rain.

What Are The Scenarios To Choose XPEL PPF Vs XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating?

The first thing to know is that the two products are not comparable and thus not a true comparison to one another. Paint protection film provides a urethane layer of protection against rock chips and scratches. Ceramic coatings, even when cured, are microns thick and not engineered to stop rock chips. That said, it is an excellent product for protection against environmental contaminants such as bird droppings, bug guts, and more. Not to mention that it makes cleaning off-track rubber much easier. To further answer the question – ceramic coatings are for customers who want some basic protection along with increased shine, gloss, depth of color, and great hydrophobic and self-cleaning properties. PPF is for the customers who want actual protection against rock chips and scratches.

What Are The Scenarios One Would Choose Both XPEL PPF & Ceramic Coating?

This combo is extremely common. The car enthusiast is after that best-case scenario type of maintenance. Having PPF and ceramic coating will keep the vehicle protected from rock chips, road debris, and more while having all the benefits of a ceramic-coated car. Those benefits being hydrophobic properties, self-cleaning, and an increased gloss and depth appearance.

How Does A Ceramic Coating Alter The Paint Surface?

The coating links with the painted surface creating a new functional layer. By creating an inseparable bond on a molecular level with the vehicle’s paintwork you get a coating that cannot be washed off like a wax or sealant.

Can You Use Any Car Wash Product On FUSION PLUS?

If your vehicle is protected with XPEL FUSION PLUS, it is highly recommended you use an approved car wash solution, such as XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash, which is formulated to help encapsulate the dirt and help keep your surface protected and scratch-free. XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash has been tested and works great with FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating. Once you finish washing your vehicle, we recommend using XPEL Ceramic Boost spray, for an extra slick, hydrophobic surface. We also have XPEL Detail Spray for quick wipe-downs in between washings.

Can You Apply FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF On STEALTH? Will It Make It Glossy?

Yes, you can apply FUSION PLUS PAINT & PPF to the STEALTH film. It will not make the surface glossy; it will enhance the depth of the matte finish.

What Does 9H Mean?

9H hardness is a rating based on the Pencil Hardness Test, commonly used by manufacturers of clear and pigmented surface coatings. The Pencil Hardness test is used to determine the scratch resistance of a coating surface by using pencils to scratch the surface and rate the scratch resistance in relation to that pencils hardness and other materials of similar hardness.

What Surfaces Can I Have XPEL FUSION PLUS Installed On?

We offer a full lineup of premium ceramic coatings. Visit https://www.pro-xpel.com.my/fusion-plus-ceramic-coating/ for a full list of our ceramic offerings.