XPEL Paint Protection Film for Your Tesla Model X: A Comprehensive Guide
If you own a Tesla Model X, you know how valuable your vehicle is. Not only is it a symbol of your taste and status, but it's also a major investment that you want to protect. That's why many Tesla Model X owners are turning to XPEL Paint Protection Film (PPF) to protect their vehicle's paint from scratches, dings, and other forms of damage. At Lonestar Auto Boutique we had a black Tesla Model X brought in for a stealth ppf wrap an did an awesome job giving it a unique look and exceptional protection. In this blog we will discuss our process, show before and after photos and answer the following questions:
What is XPEL PPF and How Does it Work?
XPEL is a brand of PPF that's specifically designed to protect your car's paint from damage. PPF is a clear, vinyl film that's applied to the surface of your car. It acts as a barrier between your car's paint and the outside world, preventing damage from road debris, weather, and other hazards. XPEL PPF is known for its durability, clarity, and ease of care. XPEL PPF is created through a complex manufacturing process that involves several steps. Here is a brief overview of the process:
Raw Material Selection: XPEL starts by selecting high-quality raw materials for the production of their PPF film. They use a blend of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and other materials to ensure that the film is durable, clear, and resistant to yellowing and other damage.
Extrusion: The raw materials are then melted and extruded through a machine to create a flat sheet of film.
Laminating: The film is then laminated with a layer of protective film to provide additional strength and protection.
Cutting: The film is then cut into the desired size and shape, based on the specific specifications of the vehicle it will be applied to.
Quality Control: Finally, the film is subjected to a rigorous quality control process to ensure that it meets XPEL's high standards of performance and durability.
The resulting XPEL PPF film is a high-quality, durable, and clear material that is designed to protect your car's paint from damage and keep it looking great for years to come.
How Much Does XPEL PPF Cost for a Tesla Model X?
The cost of XPEL PPF for a Tesla Model X varies depending on several factors, including the size of your vehicle, the type of film you choose, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a full installation of XPEL PPF for a Tesla Model X. However, the cost is well worth it considering the protection it provides for your vehicle.
Can You Get a Matte PPF for Your Tesla Model X?
Yes, you can get a matte PPF for your Tesla Model X. Matte PPF gives your vehicle a unique, satin finish that looks great and provides excellent protection. If you're looking to add some style to your vehicle while still keeping it protected, matte PPF is a great option. There is a notable difference between matte and satin, with matte being a flat look that does not sheen. Matte ppf gives more of a satin look, keeping a nice sheen look without it looking too shiny.
How Much Does a Matte PPF Cost for a Tesla Model X?
The cost of a matte PPF for a vehicle is similar to the cost of a glossy PPF. However, the exact cost will depend on the size of your vehicle and the complexity of the installation. If you're interested in a matte PPF, be sure to get a quote with Lonestar Auto Boutique to get an accurate estimate.
Is Matte PPF Hard to Maintain?
No, matte PPF is not hard to maintain. In fact, it's easier to maintain than matte car paint. To keep your matte PPF looking its best, simply wash it regularly with soap and water. You can also use a matte protectant to keep the finish looking new. Matte PPF requires a different cleaning method than glossy PPF, as the matte finish is more sensitive to damage and discoloration. Here are some steps to help you clean your matte PPF effectively:
Use a gentle soap: Use a soap specifically designed for washing matte finishes, as harsh detergents can damage the surface of the film. Look for a soap that is pH-neutral and free of waxes and silicones.
Avoid high-pressure washing: High-pressure washing can damage the surface of the matte PPF, so it's important to avoid this type of washing. Instead, wash your car with a low-pressure spray and a soft, clean cloth or sponge.
Rinse thoroughly: After washing, rinse your car thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. This will help to prevent streaks and water spots on the surface of the matte PPF.
Dry gently: After rinsing, dry your car gently with a clean, soft towel or chamois. Avoid using a rough cloth or towel, as this can scratch the surface of the film.
Avoid direct sunlight: If possible, avoid washing or drying your car in direct sunlight, as this can cause the film to warp or discolor.
By following these steps, you can help to keep your matte PPF looking great and protect it from damage. It's also a good idea to have your car professionally cleaned and detailed periodically to ensure that it stays in top condition.
Which is Better: 3M or XPEL?
Both 3M and XPEL are excellent brands of PPF, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. That being said, XPEL is known for its ease of installation and durability, making it a popular choice among Tesla owners.
Can You Take a Matte Car Through a Car Wash?
Yes, you can take a matte car through a car wash. However, it's important to use a gentle wash cycle and avoid high-pressure washes, as they can damage the finish. If you're unsure how to properly wash your matte car, consult a professional detailer for advice. Machine car washes can be damaging to your vehicle for several reasons:
High-Pressure Spraying: Most machine car washes use high-pressure sprays that can damage the surface of your car's paint, causing chips, cracks, and other types of damage. This is especially true for cars with delicate or soft paint, such as matte finishes.
Abrasive Brushes: Some machine car washes use abrasive brushes that can scratch the surface of your car's paint or ppf. This can cause permanent damage and reduce the overall value of your vehicle.
Contaminants: Machine car washes can introduce contaminants into your vehicle's paint, such as dirt, debris, and chemicals. These contaminants can cause damage and discoloration over time.
Uneven Cleaning: Machine car washes can be inconsistent in their cleaning performance, leaving some areas of your car unclean while over-scrubbing others. This can lead to uneven wear and tear on your vehicle's paint.
Lack of Personal Touch: Hand washing your car allows you to give it the personal touch and attention that it needs to maintain its appearance and value. Machine car washes simply can't provide the same level of care and attention.
In general, it's recommended that you wash your car by hand or have it professionally cleaned, rather than relying on a machine car wash. This will help to protect your vehicle's paint, preserve its value, and keep it looking great for years to come.
Do Matte Cars Scratch Easily?
Matte cars are not more susceptible to scratches than glossy cars. However, scratches are more noticeable on matte finishes, so it's important to take good care of your matte car to keep it looking its best.
What are the Pros and Cons of Matte PPF? Pros of matte ppf:
Unique, stylish appearance
Less prone to showing fingerprints and other smudges
Easy to maintain
Cons of matte ppf:
Scratches are more noticeable
Can be difficult to repair if damaged
May require special care when washing and maintaining
Do Matte Cars Get Dirty Fast?
Matte cars are no more likely to get dirty than glossy cars. However, because dirt and grime are more noticeable on matte finishes, it's important to wash and maintain your matte car regularly to keep it looking its best. We recommend hand washing your vehicle to avoid any damage or scratches that may happen when taking your vehicle to a machine wash. Most times car washes are not liable for damages to your vehicle and will try to fight covering the cost to fix it if their machine damages your ride, so its best to avoid the risk of your ppf being damaged.
In conclusion, XPEL PPF is a great option for protecting your Tesla Model X from damage and keeping it looking great. Whether you choose glossy or matte PPF, the investment is well worth it to keep your vehicle protected and looking its best. Contact us at Lonestar Auto Boutique to discuss our XPEL matte ppf, as well as our other options to protect your paint and prevent road damage to your awesome vehicle!