What is PPF?
Paint Protection Film (PPF) — commonly known as "stone chip protection" or "paint film" — is a transparent polyurethane film mounted directly onto a car's painted surface to physically protect it against stone chips, scratches and other surface damage. 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 used by your installer. This makes PPF the only protective film that can genuinely "heal" itself, and it is one of the key differences between PPF and other paint protection options.
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.
How long does PPF last?
Premium PPF typically lasts 10 years or more when installed correctly and maintained as recommended — which is why most reputable manufacturers back it with a product warranty of the same length. Generic or budget film lasts considerably less and often loses its self-healing ability and clarity much sooner.
Durability depends on three things: the quality of the film, how the car is used (heavy motorway driving and salted winter roads wear it faster), and how consistently it is maintained. Compared with ceramic coating, which typically lasts 3–7 years, PPF is significantly more long-lasting — though it is a different kind of investment, covered in the difference between PPF and ceramic coating section below.
PPF is the only paint protection film that is self-healing when exposed to heat, and premium film typically lasts 10 years or more, compared with 3-7 years for ceramic coating.
Should you choose full body PPF or partial coverage?
The right choice depends on how exposed the car is and how much you are willing to invest. Most car owners choose full front as a minimum, since that is where stone chips strike most frequently — but full body wrap provides the most complete protection.
- Full front: bumper, bonnet and A-pillars
- Full car: all painted surfaces
- Door edges and door handles
- Boot lid (against supermarket trolleys)
Thinking about wrapping the entire car? Our guide to full body PPF breaks down exactly what is included and what it costs for different car sizes.
What does PPF cost?
The price varies considerably depending on the size of the car, coverage and the quality of the film:
- Full front: £800–£2,000
- Full car: £1,800–£5,000
- 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, as described above. Price also depends on the size of the car, the complexity of the bodywork (more curves mean more cutting work), and the installer's experience.
How do you maintain PPF after installation?
PPF requires less maintenance than bare paintwork, but it is not maintenance-free. In the period right after installation, avoid pressure washing and stiff brushes while the film's adhesive fully cures — ask your installer how long that applies to your specific film.
Hand washing with a pH-neutral shampoo, or a touchless wash, is the gentlest option. Avoid abrasive sponges and brushes in automatic car washes, as they can leave micro-scratches on the film's surface. Because PPF is already smooth and hydrophobic, wax or sealant is rarely needed — though ceramic coating applied on top of PPF can make cleaning even easier and extend the gloss.
What is the difference between PPF and ceramic coating?
PPF and ceramic coating solve two different problems. PPF is a physical film that absorbs stone chips and scratches; ceramic coating is a chemical layer that primarily protects against UV radiation, bird droppings and road salt, and makes the car easier to keep clean. Many car enthusiasts choose both: PPF on the most exposed areas and coating on the rest of the car — coating can even be applied on top of PPF.
Not sure what suits your car and budget? Our comparison of PPF vs. ceramic coating covers both options in depth.
What does the PPF warranty cover?
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 — including whether the film was cut and fitted correctly and whether the edges are properly sealed.
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 — and lets you document exactly what the customer paid for if the car is later sold. See what your customer gets with a digital warranty card they always have on hand.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install PPF yourself?
It is not recommended. PPF needs to be installed in a dust-free environment with precise cutting around the shapes of bumpers and doors, and mistakes like trapped air bubbles or lifting edges are hard to fix afterwards. Most manufacturers' product warranties also require professional installation, so a DIY-fitted film risks being left without warranty cover.
Does PPF turn yellow over time?
Cheap or generic film can yellow and become brittle after just a few years, especially in strong sun. Premium PPF contains UV inhibitors designed to resist yellowing throughout the warranty period — typically 10 years — which is exactly why the product warranty explicitly covers against it.
Can PPF be removed without damaging the paint?
Yes, when removed professionally by an experienced installer, the film does not take the paint with it. If the film has been on for many years, the paint underneath may need a light polish to match the surrounding panels, since it has been shielded from the gradual weathering the rest of the car has experienced.
Is PPF better than ceramic coating?
Neither — they solve different problems. PPF physically protects against stone chips and scratches, while ceramic coating primarily protects chemically and adds deeper gloss. Many owners combine both for the most complete protection. See our full comparison to decide what suits your driving and your budget.
What is the difference between the installation warranty and the product warranty?
The product warranty comes from the film manufacturer and typically covers 10 years against yellowing, delamination and bubbling in the material itself. The installation warranty comes from your installer and covers the workmanship — whether the film was cut and fitted correctly. Both should be clearly stated on your warranty certificate.
Whether you choose full front coverage or a full body wrap, a professional warranty certificate is the best protection for both you and your customer. With sevv, your customers get a digital warranty card with a QR code and Apple Wallet support, so the warranty is never lost in a drawer.