Exterior Care Question
 

Hi all,

I have the 3m protective film on the front of my A4 and I was wondering how I should approach polishing and waxing the rest of my car. My concern is that the paint under the 3m film is exposed to UV rays and is therefore slowly fading like the rest of the car - but I cannot polish this paint because of the film. Will polishing and waxing the rest of the car create significant contrast between the paint under the film and the rest of the body?

Thanks for your insight.

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

i don't know myself as i didnt get the 3M done and wish i had... now i want to have the hood/front bumper repainted and then get the 3M done.

Now i don't know but just thinking that i would assume that the 3M would have some UV protection in it so that it would prevent fading under the 3M.

maybe some others here who have it and know or some that have had it on their car for some time now might be more knowledgeable.

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

Ideally you should wax/compound first and then install it:

The truth is the old vinyl bras that cover the car like a shield are much thicker, and will deflect larger objects. However, it is very difficult, to remove and install them. They should never be left on for extended periods do to moisture being trapped between the paint and the cover. In so many cases, people tend to leave them on too long or use them when it rains, which causes clouding or hazing the in the paint's clear coat. Even worse they trap dirt and debris between the cover and the paint, which during movement, or removal can cause scratching of the clear coat as well. Aside from that, most people have a problem with the vinyl bra's aesthetics. Back in the day, we all understood, that it's better to have the black bra than paint damage.

3M Protective Film Clear Bra Test - Automotive Articles .com Magazine

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

audimontreal - perhaps I wasn't clear. The 3M protection has been on the car since new. I now want to polish and wax the car, but I'm concerned the paint under the 3m protection will appear noticeably different since I cannot remove the 3m protection to apply polish and wax. I was wondering if anyone had encountered this issue or if my concern is unfounded.

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

PM jonnymaljar who does professional detailing. He will answer your question.

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

Ok then...
Yes my brother has this issue with his TypeS and had recently buffed it/wax it...
I would then like Mike suggested not attempt and remove it yourself. Let a professional handle this as the paint would indeed not be in the same condition as the rest of the vehicle. However once removed and buffed/waxed you will hardy see any difference if any just leave it to the pros! ;)

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

Thank you Mikeh.

Re: Exterior Care Question
 

The following is copied from the 3m web site:
Q. Can I use wax over Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?
A. Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft cloth, such as a 3M™ High Performance Cloth. Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used.