Clear Bra Front Bumper Kit

**nhcycle** · 05-06-2009, 11:48 PM

deanesfield,

IF an installer offers more than one size, it may cost more but only by a few $$. Typically an installer should offer a kit with the half hood (18-20") cover.
IF they quote more than 5-7% more for the added coverage, make them negotiate..... keep in mind the material as a percentage of the total installation cost is low.... so there is room to negotiate..... I paid $595 locally for the hood, bumper, mirrors and the rear bumper cover (from top to bottom) thereby protecting the face and the edge from loading/unloading items via the liftgate.

**LSP972** · 05-13-2009, 11:59 AM

nhcycle,

Many thanks for the detailed reply.

How durable is this stuff? I'm a bit concerned about what happens when you have to remove/replace it.

Basically, I'm wrestling with whether or not this a short-term or long-term solution.

**nhcycle** · 05-13-2009, 01:51 PM

LSP972,

The 3M material is fairly durable - it will protect from most road debris such as sand smaller pebbles and other small airborne materials - it may protect from small stone impacts in that it MAY prevent or minimize paint chipping....it really all depends of desnsity/size of the object(s) and speed of impact.

I went on a 4K mile trip last summer and I sustained a lot of sand blasting affect on my old Avalon that pretty much pristine previous to the trip which is why I opted for the clear bra.

Contemporary auto paint is applied very thin and isn't as hard because of the elimination of lead in the paint formula for environmental reasons.

To properly restore the paint on you front end of you car after on a couple of seasons could be as much as a few $$$K.....

Once applied and cured (after a few days) you can wash and wax the material - in fact it is recommended that you treat it as you do your paint surfaces.

Although I intended to install it myself, I got a good quote for install that was only about $150 more than it would have cost me in materials. The used the wrong kit and had to take the film of...... not a problem....it pulls of easily with no adverse affect to you painted surfaces...... with that being said it adheres very well with the use of the adhesive and the surface tension created between the film and the paint surface.....

some installer guarantee the install for life and others for 5-years..... I consider the application as a longer-term investment/cost avoidance protection..... even if you only keep you vehicle for 3-4 years, it will make it more salable......

the last tips I would offer - insist the the hood material extends 18-20" ABOVE the hood emblem...... have the installers show you exactly how the kit is to be installed - ALL leading edges should be protected with no voids in material coverage...

Hooe this info is of help...

Bob

**TechSeller** · 05-13-2009, 01:57 PM

I will echo what Bob says. I found the 3M product to be very durable and well worth the money. In the 3+ years I owned these cars I did not notice any lifting or discoloration. That said, a quality installation is critical, so look for some positive word of mouth before you commit.

**LSP972** · 05-14-2009, 08:21 PM

Excellent info; thank you both.

**indeerwoods** · 05-18-2009, 12:02 PM

I just got a Venza for my wife and found this forum...wonderful!

Concerning the clear bra, where does a person find installers? I am just guessing that a window tint installer would be a starting point. I am in SW Arkansas. Any help would be appreciated.

**nhcycle** · 05-18-2009, 01:04 PM

indeerwoods,

As a starting point, I'd suggest you google with key words "Clear Auto Bras" or "Paint Protection Film".

A lot of sites have deader/installer links that may be in you locale. Then it's calling, quoting, checking local reputation, checking reference customers, looking at end work product. It's worth the effort to find the price and installer you are comfortable with. Also, cheapest isn't always the best, not is the more expensive - it's the best value for the install.... almost like selecting a general contractor or roof installer....

FWIW, you are correct in looking at window tint installer as well as reputable body shops that have done a lot of clear bra installs.... using 3M, Venture Shield and XPEL seem to be the best materials....

- Bob