It's not the first time we've gotten this request, and it definitely won't be the last. "Help! My paint protection film is cracked and chipped!" We hear you. While this isn't as common with vehicles from Minnesota, those driven up from hotter states like Arizona and Texas often have seen better days.

Now, paint protection film isn't meant to last forever. It's there to take the hits, protect your car's paint, and it does a great job. But over time, with exposure to the elements (especially that intense UV!), it can start to crack, chip, and peel. Think of it like a shoe. A shoe will protect your feet, but over time the shoe will get damaged, and eventually, it'll need to be replaced.

A Real-Life PPF Rescue

Take this car, for example.

The owner bought it out of state, and the PPF just kept getting worse and worse.  They came to us for help, and we were able to get it looking brand new again!

Pretty awesome, right?

The DIY Route:

But hey, we get it, some people are DIYers.  You want to tackle it yourself? We believe in you! So, here's the lowdown on removing old paint protection film:

Steam it off:‍

If the film is still relatively intact and not severely cracked, try applying some steam to it. The heat will help soften the adhesive, making it easier to peel off. You can use a clothes steamer or even a hairdryer with a steam setting.

‍Important:  Be careful not to hold the steamer too close to the paint, as excessive heat can damage the film making it harder to come off. Even more excessive heat and it'll cause damage to the paint and panel itself.  Keep the steamer moving, and test a small, inconspicuous area first. It's all about patience. Don't try to rush through it.

Bring in the eraser wheel:‍

For film that's already cracked or peeling, a rubber eraser wheel can be your best friend. This tool is designed to gently remove stubborn adhesive and film without harming the paint underneath. However, it's crucial to use it with caution.  Apply light pressure and work slowly to avoid any potential damage to your car's finish. You can find eraser wheels at most auto parts stores such as AutoZone.

I really can't stress this enough. Light pressure. Otherwise you're going to damage the paint, and you'll have to get a clearcoat done or paint corrected. Slow and steady wins the race. 

I know there's probably going to be a little fear while doing this. Just know our experts at Sun Control of Minnesota are always willing to lend a hand if you need any help.

Adhesive remover is your friend:‍

Once the film is off, you'll probably have some adhesive residue left behind. Use a good quality adhesive remover to get rid of it. (We recommend Citrol – it's safe for car paint and works like a charm, just still use light amounts).  Apply it according to the instructions on the bottle, and be sure to wipe it off completely.

Use that elbow grease, and get as much off as you possibly can. Sometimes you have to let it soak up a bit before hitting it with a rag.

Buff it out (optional):‍

If you want to go the extra mile, give your car a good buffing. This will help clean up any imperfections and make your paint look even better. Use a fine-grit polishing compound and a soft buffing pad.

And that's it! You've successfully removed your old paint protection film.

Need New PPF? We Can Help!

If you're thinking about installing a new piece of paint protection film, don't hesitate to reach out!  Installing PPF correctly can be tricky, and you want to make sure it's done right to avoid bubbles, dust, and other issues. We're pros at this stuff, and we'd be happy to help you get your car looking its best.

Of course, if you'd rather leave it to the experts (and avoid any potential mishaps!), we're just a phone call away.  Sun Control of Minnesota can take care of everything for you – from removal to a flawless new PPF installation.  We use only the highest quality films and have the experience to ensure a perfect finish.

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