10 Questions You Must Ask Before Getting PPF Coating
10 Questions You Must Ask Before Getting PPF Coating
You have decided to get PPF coating. But which centre will you choose?
Comparing prices is important — but it is not enough. The wrong choice can put your vehicle's paintwork at risk for years. Here are the 10 questions you must ask before committing to any PPF application.
1. Which Brand of Film Do You Use?
Do not book an appointment without asking this question first. Alongside global brands such as STEK, Xpel and LLumar, there are also unverified and low-quality films circulating in the market.
Once you have the brand name, also ask whether it is genuine. Some centres use a brand name while applying imitation products. STEK authorised application centres can be verified directly on their official website.
2. What Cutting Method Do You Use?
This question directly determines the quality of the application. There are two methods:
- Plotter cutting: Computer-aided cutting specific to the vehicle model. No contact with the paintwork, no marks left.
- Craft knife: Manual cutting. Leaves micro marks on the paintwork — over time, film can lift from these points.
Do not proceed without receiving a "yes" to the question of whether plotter cutting is used.
3. What Is the Application Environment Like?
PPF coating must be applied in a dust-free, controlled environment. If dust particles remain between the film and the paint, the appearance will be compromised and bubbling may develop over time.
If possible, visit the workshop beforehand. The cleanliness of the application area is a marker of professionalism.
4. How Long Will the Application Take?
Realistic time expectations are a quality indicator:
- Bonnet or single panel: 2-4 hours
- Front 4-panel: 4-6 hours
- Full body: 1-3 working days
A centre that says "we'll deliver it today" may be skipping surface preparation and curing time. Rushed PPF does not last.
5. What Does the Guarantee Cover?
You need to ask about two separate guarantees:
- Product guarantee: The manufacturer's guarantee on the film. For STEK PPF, this is provided through the authorised centre.
- Workmanship guarantee: The application centre's own guarantee, covering bubbling, lifting or edge issues.
A verbal guarantee alone is not sufficient. You can request written documentation or an authorised centre certificate.
6. Which Areas Are Included in the Coverage?
Clarify exactly what is included when receiving a quote. Is it the bonnet, front 4-panel, or full body?
Some centres include only the bonnet under "front coverage" and price the wings and bumper separately. Always compare scope — not just price — when evaluating different quotes.
7. What Is the Film Thickness in Microns?
Micron count alone is not a sufficient measure — but asking the question tests the centre's technical knowledge. If they cannot answer, that is an important signal.
STEK PPF is 150 microns. During stretching and bonding this value reduces by approximately 25-35%. Those who want to mislead you may quote the pre-stretch figure in an exaggerated way.
8. Does the Film Have a Self-Healing Feature?
If the answer is "yes", follow up by asking how it works. A centre that genuinely knows its product will be able to explain that self-healing works only for fine surface scratches — not for deep ones.
Be cautious of centres that say yes to everything but cannot explain the mechanism.
9. Is Surface Preparation Carried Out Before Application?
The vehicle surface must undergo thorough washing and decontamination before PPF application. If iron particles, resin or dirt particles remain on the surface, they will be visible as imperfections under the film.
Paint correction is not usually needed on new cars, but surface sterilisation is still essential. Centres that say they skip this step are ignoring a critical stage.
10. What Determines the Price?
Price differences generally come down to three factors: the brand and quality of film used, the time invested in workmanship, and workshop standards.
Quotes significantly below market rates usually mean low-quality film or a rushed application. PPF, once applied, will sit on your vehicle for years. Choosing the cheapest quote for this investment is the riskiest decision you can make.
Get Answers to All These Questions From Us
At Protego Car Protection, we provide clear and documented answers to all of these questions. You can get information about our STEK authorised centre status, plotter cutting technology and dust-free application environment via WhatsApp before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Protego Car Protection, we provide services in Ankara with a team specialized in vehicle wrapping and ceramic coating. Our goal is not only to protect your vehicle from external elements, but also to enhance its aesthetic appearance.
