What is PPF?

Paint Protection Film — abbreviated PPF and commonly known as "stone chip protection" or "paint film" — is a transparent polyurethane film mounted directly onto the car's painted surface. The film is typically 150–250 microns thick and nearly invisible on the car.

PPF is self-healing when exposed to heat: minor scratches and swirl marks disappear by themselves when the surface is warmed up — either by the sun or a heat gun. This makes PPF the only protective film that can genuinely "heal" itself.

What does PPF protect against?

  • Stone chips: The primary function. The film absorbs the impact and prevents stone chips from reaching the paintwork.
  • Insects and bird droppings: The chemically resistant surface makes them easier to remove and prevents etching.
  • Scratches from branches and bushes: The film takes the scratch instead of the paintwork.
  • Water edge deposits and road salt.
  • UV radiation: Good PPF includes a UV filter that protects the paint from fading.

Full car vs. partial coverage

PPF can be applied to the entire car (full wrap) or only the most exposed areas:

  • Full front: bumper, bonnet and A-pillars
  • Full car: all painted surfaces
  • Door edges and door handles
  • Boot lid (against supermarket trolleys)

Most people choose full front as a minimum — that is where stone chips strike most frequently. Full car is the ultimate solution but also the most expensive.

What does PPF cost?

The price varies considerably depending on the size of the car, coverage and the quality of the film:

  • Full front: £400–£1,200
  • Full car: £1,500–£4,500
  • Door packages: £150–£350

Premium film from recognised manufacturers costs more than generic film — but also lasts significantly longer and has better self-healing properties.

PPF warranty

Premium PPF film typically comes with a 10-year product warranty against yellowing, delamination and bubbling. The installation warranty from your PPF installer covers the workmanship itself.

It is essential that the warranty certificate specifies exactly which film has been installed, on which parts of the car, and what is covered. A digital certificate with this information locked in is invaluable in the event of a warranty claim.