Are Paint Protection Films Worth It in 2025? | Carbyne Motorsport
Before heading into the topic lets jump into what ppf is. If you don’t know click this link and find out.
Are Paint Protection Films Worth It?
"I’d rather spend a little now than a lot later."
That’s what one of my clients told me after a rock chip cracked the front end of his brand-new Tesla. The car wasn’t even a week old. And that right there is what Paint Protection Film (or PPF) is all about: avoiding regret.
Let’s be honest—nobody really wants to spend money on something invisible. Especially not after dropping $60K+ on a vehicle. But here's the thing: that invisible shield? It can save your paint, your resale value, and your peace of mind.
So… What Is Paint Protection Film?
In simple terms, PPF is a clear, nearly invisible film that’s applied to the paint of your vehicle. It acts like armor—protecting against rock chips, road debris, bug splatter, and other small (but costly) damage. Think of it like a phone screen protector… but for your car.
It’s not magic, and it’s not bulletproof, but it works. And it’s come a long way in the last decade. The newer films self-heal when scratched, resist yellowing, and come in finishes like gloss, matte, or even color-tinted.
Real Talk: Is It Worth It?
Let me walk you through a quick story.
A client—let’s call him James—brought in his Porsche 911 for a full wrap. Gorgeous car. He skipped the PPF because he figured, “I’m careful. I don’t tailgate.”
Fast forward three months. He came back with a peppered bumper and fender—tiny rock chips everywhere. Repainting? Easily $1,500+. And guess what? Now he wants PPF. On top of the repaint.
It happens all the time.
If you care about your vehicle’s paint (and especially if it’s a high-end or new car), PPF is hands-down one of the best investments you can make. It’s not just about looks—though it definitely helps there—it’s about protection and long-term value.
Watch this video to see how the PPF saved the paint.
Here’s Where It Makes the Most Sense:
Daily drivers: Especially if you’re on highways or commute long distances.
Luxury or performance cars: These have softer paints, which chip more easily.
Lease vehicles: Avoid end-of-lease charges for cosmetic damage.
New purchases: Protect the fresh, perfect finish before the world gets to it.
Repainted vehicles: Fresh paint is more vulnerable to chips in the first few months.
What Areas Should You Cover With PPF?
You don’t need to wrap the whole car—though you can and would be the most logical.
A popular option is the “front-end package,” which usually includes:
Front bumper
Hood (full or partial)
Fenders
Side mirrors
Headlights
That’s where most of the damage happens anyway. If you’ve got a budget, start there. If you’re all-in, go full car and forget about rock chips forever.
One of my clients with a black Range Rover told me it was “the best decision” he made—because black shows everything. Now? He’s driving worry-free, even through construction zones.
What Does It Cost?
It varies. But to give you a ballpark:
Front-end package: $1,200–$2,500
Full wrap: $4,000–$9,000 (sometimes more depending on the car and film)
Add-ons like headlights, pillars, or door cups: $50–$300 each
Yeah, it’s not cheap. But neither is repainting your hood every year. And more importantly—it keeps your car looking sharp. Like-new sharp. Also it helps with resale.
Final Thoughts from the Install Bay
I’ve been in this game a long time. I’ve wrapped everything from daily drivers to six-figure supercars. I’ve seen the aftermath of skipped protection, and I’ve seen the pride on a client’s face when we peel off the film after years and the paint underneath looks brand new.
PPF isn’t for everyone. If you’re leasing a car short-term or don’t mind a few battle scars, maybe it’s not necessary. But if you love your vehicle, plan to keep it a while, or just want that peace of mind every time you hit the road—it’s absolutely worth it.
My advice? Treat PPF like a smart insurance policy. You don’t always see it. But when you need it, you’ll be damn glad it’s there.
—
Alex Sevadjian
Owner, Carbyne Motorsport
818-484-8440
