Clear Bra
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Joined: Sep 2012
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Clear Bra
Any of you guys done a clear bra on the front cap/hood/mirrors? Post pics if you have, I've never done this but has been highly recommended, and I've gotten a few recommendations on which film to use, but what's the consensus here on which product is best?
Also, I've been told to not attempt to install myself, that the installer makes a world of difference. I'm also not sure how to go about finding a local installer, other than calling around. Thanks!
Also, I've been told to not attempt to install myself, that the installer makes a world of difference. I'm also not sure how to go about finding a local installer, other than calling around. Thanks!
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 13,980
Likes: 124
From: SE Massachusetts, U.S.
Xpel Ultimate. Not inexpensive but well worth the investment as it has it's own clear coat and most importantly, the film is self-healing. I have full front with hood, fenders, bumper, mirrors, full rocker panels and rear bumper (trunk opening width). All edges possible are wrapped so no visible lines.
My installer does not use pre-cut kits; he custom cuts every piece. Regular non-abrasive waxes and sealers can be used.
Showing you a picture won't help because you can't see it after it's installed.
Manf. Info:
http://www.xpel.com/products/xpel_ul...ction_film.asp
Install photos (Unique Care Care in MA did my A6):
http://forums.corral.net/forums/body...ling-film.html
Demo:
My installer does not use pre-cut kits; he custom cuts every piece. Regular non-abrasive waxes and sealers can be used.
Showing you a picture won't help because you can't see it after it's installed.
Manf. Info:
http://www.xpel.com/products/xpel_ul...ction_film.asp
Install photos (Unique Care Care in MA did my A6):
http://forums.corral.net/forums/body...ling-film.html
Demo:
Last edited by snagitseven; Oct 17, 2012 at 10:26 AM.
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 249
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From: Northern Va
I also had xPel Ultimate put on my car.
Full Hood, headlights, and front fenders. The A frame up to where there looks like a natural break between front and back seating area. Mirrors and cups behind the handles. Top of the rear bumper. Had it done with car only having 200 miles on it. Very impressed with it so far.
Full Hood, headlights, and front fenders. The A frame up to where there looks like a natural break between front and back seating area. Mirrors and cups behind the handles. Top of the rear bumper. Had it done with car only having 200 miles on it. Very impressed with it so far.
AudiWorld Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 35
Likes: 1
I also had xPel Ultimate put on my car.
Full Hood, headlights, and front fenders. The A frame up to where there looks like a natural break between front and back seating area. Mirrors and cups behind the handles. Top of the rear bumper. Had it done with car only having 200 miles on it. Very impressed with it so far.
Full Hood, headlights, and front fenders. The A frame up to where there looks like a natural break between front and back seating area. Mirrors and cups behind the handles. Top of the rear bumper. Had it done with car only having 200 miles on it. Very impressed with it so far.
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Aug 2007
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I have never had any problem with this product. Simple to maintain ( just wax it.) and it doesn't peel off.
This is a reversible product, meaning if you want to remove it, your car will show no wear.
One recommendation: Let you car paint cure 30 days before application.
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 174
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From: USA (FL and PA)
I just got info from xpel. If you go to their website and dealer locator they have a list of installers that also includes the factory trained installers. I'm looking into at the bare minimum front fenders, entire hood, bumper, lights, rocker panels, mirrors, pillars and black for the top as my car will be Ibis White. Waiting to see what whole car wrap would be (including doors and spoiler) as well to prevent chips on edges of doors and to prevent being keyed ( already happened once with my current car when my girlfriend used car to go to work). Also found out from cilajet that my dealership is the only certified installer for their product in the Miami area as well. But besides paint protection I want chip protection as well. There is also a windshield product as well but think that would defeat the rain sensing wipers.
Any of you guys done a clear bra on the front cap/hood/mirrors? Post pics if you have, I've never done this but has been highly recommended, and I've gotten a few recommendations on which film to use, but what's the consensus here on which product is best?
Also, I've been told to not attempt to install myself, that the installer makes a world of difference. I'm also not sure how to go about finding a local installer, other than calling around. Thanks!
Also, I've been told to not attempt to install myself, that the installer makes a world of difference. I'm also not sure how to go about finding a local installer, other than calling around. Thanks!
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Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 13,980
Likes: 124
From: SE Massachusetts, U.S.
No film, including Xpel Ultimate, will prevent damage from someone keying the car or a hard hit on a door edge. The Ultimate will prevent most rock chip damage to the paint, however. Not one paint chip on my covered surfaces in 11K miles.
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AudiWorld Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 174
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From: USA (FL and PA)
Thx. I've read all the threads about the subject since my last post. I think I've decided on the following. Both complete bumpers (want to protect rear wheel-related as well), front fenders,rocker panels, full hood, a pillars,mirrors, lights. Not sure about front mounted cameras for the innovation package or not. Let me know if I missed anything. Not worried about rear valance as that will likely be going in a few months when I mod with dual-tipped dual exhaust.
AudiWorld Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 35
Likes: 1
Update
I had my 3M clear bra for about a year now. It still looks great but a word of caution. I waxed my car and I think the hood was too hot causing a slight hazing to the edge of the hood bra. It's not too bad but I am disappointed. I suggest making sure you wax only in the shade or in cooler weather.