Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a clear, self-healing film applied to painted surfaces to protect against rock chips and scratches. Dealer PPF packages ($500-$2,000) typically only cover a small "partial hood" area and use inferior film. Professional PPF shops offer full-front coverage with premium film (XPEL, 3M, SunTek) for similar or better value.
Verdict: Negotiable
$500 (dealer partial) to $8,000+ (full wrap)
Dealer PPF vs. Professional PPF
| Dealer PPF | Pro Shop PPF | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 12" partial hood strip | Full hood, fenders, bumper |
| Film Brand | Generic/unknown | XPEL, 3M, SunTek (10yr warranty) |
| Price | $500 - $1,500 | $1,500 - $2,500 (full front) |
| Installer | Detailer (variable skill) | Certified installer |
How to Handle Dealer PPF
Negotiation Script
"I'm declining the dealer PPF package. The coverage is minimal and I'll be getting a full-front wrap with XPEL Ultimate from a certified installer. Please remove this from my contract."