Paint protection film (PPF)
Paint protection film (PPF). Paint protection film (PPF) is a clear, self-healing urethane film applied to a vehicle's painted surfaces to protect against rock chips, scratches, bug etch, and UV. Common install areas: front bumper, hood, fenders, mirrors, and full-front "clear bra" wraps.
Definition
PPF is a separate product category from window tint, but most shops that install one install the other — and the workflow software requirements are very similar (photo-based quoting, film-specific line items, warranty certificates). PPF is measured in thickness (typically 6–8 mil) and is engineered to self-heal minor scratches with heat (sun or warm water).
Common install packages
Partial-front (bumper + partial hood + mirrors): ~$1,000–$1,500. Full-front ("clear bra" — full hood + bumper + fenders + mirrors): ~$1,800–$3,000. Full-vehicle wrap: $5,000–$8,000+ depending on vehicle size and film brand.
Difference from ceramic coating
Ceramic coating is a liquid that bonds to paint and provides hydrophobic + UV protection. PPF is a physical urethane barrier that absorbs impacts. They are often sold as a package — PPF on impact-prone panels + ceramic coating on the rest.
Warranty considerations
Quality PPF carries a 10-year manufacturer warranty against yellowing, cracking, peeling, and delamination. Shop software should attach the manufacturer's warranty terms to the customer's warranty certificate automatically — manual paper warranties are how warranty claims get disputed years later.
See also
- Window tint shop software — Window tint shop software
- Ceramic window tint — Ceramic window tint
- Automatic warranty certificate — Auto warranty cert
Roffik's take
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