Tesla Model Y DIY PPF Wrap

[@rantingcullinarian]

I like how frugal you are. So many Tesla channels treat money like it grows on trees. Goes to show that not everyone who owns a Tesla is rich or acts rich. Thanks dude!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Glad you liked it! I appreciate value, and I am pretty handy so if I can save and do it myself, 9 times out of 10, I do it myself.

[@tfishr]

A few years back I had a contractor install two circuits, for a built-in microwave and a garage refrigerator I was putting in. It was a reasonable price. Two weeks ago the same company charged me twice that price for one circuit, and it was because of the Tesla tax. And it was an easier job! I should have told them it was for a Leaf instead. A costly mistake.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Seriously, Tesla Tax is a real thing!

[@PawanGupta-fs1oq]

@@tfishr good tip, I'll keep that in mind. 😁

[@ufuksengul821]

Well said!!

[@Mainuh]

I'm about to do the Northtints 3m Pro front kit on my new MYLR. Was glad to find this video. FYI to those reading in 2023 the EBAY link no longer works and current price around $318. Thanks.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, I have a discount working with driveprotected.shop for 20% off using BTG20

[@jimmym1981]

I ended up ordering the kit and installed it yesterday. I will say, now I know why shops charge so much. It looks a LOT easier than it is. I think your video is spot on as well and I wouldn't have been able to do it without it. The main key is definitely tacking down the top square by the headlight (I even went around about halfway of the headlight, just on that top lip section.) Then after that was the tow hook. The key that really helped me was I went ahead and stretched it over to the passenger middle sensor and tacked that down with the square of the headlight. Then it was just stretching the sides to get those together and finally the middle. It took about 2 hours in all. Without my wife helping hold and keeping one side wet, I don't know how I would've gotten it. All in all, it's on there with minimal fingers. Pretty satisfied with the results and much cheaper than a professional. Thanks a MILLION for this video! Couldn't have done it without you!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Awesome to hear and glad you went for it. Feels good knowing you have it AND saved a ton!

[@jimmym1981]

Bearded Tesla Guy For sure. I’m frugal when it comes to things like this and this was a great instruction video. Just like you, I think if I could do it again, it would go a lot better!

[@TheCalTexans]

Thanks for taking some of the mystery out of this! Super helpful.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I'm glad it was helpful. One of those things that if you have a little bit of skill, you can do yourself!

[@pjgtwo2]

I have not received my Tesla as of yet but you have given me the courage to Do THIS!. Thank you

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Hahaha cheers!

[@RayNLA]

Enjoyed your video... I had a pro do my Model 3 and I’m happy with it. I had the shop do the front end, mirrors, headlights, rocker panels, and a strip across the top of the rear bumper. They used Llumar PPF film. Before adding the film I had the paint corrected and ceramic coated as well as a layer of ceramic coating on top of the film. The cost was approximately $2500. It’s important to have the film installed right after taking delivery of a new car to avoid getting and rock chips in the paint. I know of people that have had their cars shipped from the dealer straight to the detail shop for this protection service. Kudos for doing it yourself and saving some money.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, sooner the better on timing. We had a new front bumper installed about 2 weeks before I did this install and I already had paint chips.

[@RayNLA]

@Bearded Tesla Guy Yeah its all paint up front. I drive mine home right after delivery and the next morning dropped it off to be protected.

[@ElectricTechAdventures]

Thanks for this video! Historically I have never cared to do a PPF film on any cars I've ever owned mostly because I have always bought used cars and they were already not perfect. We just picked up a new Model Y as I outlined in my last video and now I'm considering paint protection film because it does make me feel terrible to just take a brand new car out on the road and having things hit it. That being said I am really not interested in spending many thousands of dollars just to keep the paint perfect which is purely aesthetic and has nothing to do with functionality. I might very well tackle this DIY project, thank you so much!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Most welcome

[@Gohul.]

It was because of you that I got the confidence to try this approach! Ordered through the link and about to install right now! Wish me luck 😅 Will update sooon!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good luck! Just remember to keep it wet until it’s in place. Take your time and keep wetting it down

[@voteccow]

I commend you for your insane amount of patience.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It was for sure longer task than I expected, by a multiple...

[@SnakeKeeperinKY]

watched this and it gave me courage to try it myself. So along with a buddy, we put it on my Y. Thanks to you, I saved $1300!!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good for you man, glad you gave it a try! Unbelievable savings to be had if you’re willing to try

[@mosesluk]

I am taking my MY delivery this week. You gave me good idea and courage to DIY this mini project. Thanks again

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good luck!

[@johnhahn1877]

Thanks for sharing this experience!! Your insight is very helpful in deed. I placed my MYLR order in March and am expecting delivery in September. Ever since placing the order I've been researching PPF installation. My commute is 80 miles round trip 5 days a week with 98% on highway and I want to protect my investment. I keep waffling on DIY. I watch the Drive Protected guy install PPF and he is ridiculous how well he does it and makes it look like a walk in the park (learned from him to stay calm/deliberate but not panicked or rushed, keep it wet, clues on when to slip and when to tack). I see other pros struggle with the bumper. I see DIYers struggle with the bumper, yourself included. After spending the crap ton of $$ for the car its hard to shell out $1k's more for this process professionally done...AND after spending a crap ton of $$ on the car I don't want to DIY and risk an ugly outcome. i DIYed the 240V 14-50 in my garage including 90' of 6/3 from one end of my basement through all joists to the other, up inside a wall, across above the garage ceiling and terminating down the wall at the opposite end of the garage. PPF on the bumper scares me more!! Thanks again.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It’s not easy to do the bumper but it is doable

[@bethfusco3407]

Wow thank you for posting this video! I'm still waiting for delivery of my Y but have been reading up on PPF. The Y is a big investment for me so I really want to protect it but the cost of PPF instal is out of my price range. I've done other DIY projects. After watching, I think I can do this. Thank for all your videos!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I think you can too!

[@ronalaska2472]

Beth Fusco just was reminded to let my paint cure for 2-3 months or the paint will never properly cure, as Teslas dont sit months on a lot we must wait and pray for no rock dings!

[@lellius]

Thanks for taking one for the team, however I think I'll pony up to have mine professionally done.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

No problem with that at all! It really is a big job.

[@jhook3672]

Same here, I got a stomach ache watching this video! But at least it helps me justify the large $ for professional application.

[@a.pimentel]

THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST VIDEO ON KZbin!!! yes i said it in all caps. thank you, ill be using your referral code and probably watching this a million times before applying it.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Thanks so much! I just did an Xpel full frontal on the new car. I think this one is simpler and much cheaper as a partial.

[@ericyister]

PPF install is difficult & time-consuming but saving thousands off the retail install is worth the time & effort! After all, as you stated, the end goal is to protect your Tesla. Job well done! Don't really care about the "fingers" and little bubbles -- they are hardly noticeable/visible. Money doesn't grow on trees & "good enough" is really good enough in this case.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

100%

[@ericyister]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Keep up the good work!

[@ColeyTheBest8]

Shoutout to a fellow hoosier! I am starting to see more and more Teslas driving around lately

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea same here. It was a sssllllooowwww adoption rate here, but no surprise really

[@waicool]

Thanks for your video! I followed your tips and it came out pretty good for a DIY install! It helped to line up to the parking sensors. I was worried about stretching the film from one side to the other to match all the sensors. I had a lot of trouble with fingers but in the end I used a blow dryer to help them stick, per the instructions. The only issues I have are fingers in the very bottom of the bumper near the ground. Thanks again!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Awesome man. Think of the money you saved and good for you for going for it!

[@doogiesvids5549]

Yes, most definitely, I will be doing this to my Tesla as soon as I receive it.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good deal

[@Steve-rv2ve]

Thanks a ton for being willing to share this experience & “guinea pigging” some of the challenges we’d rather not have to learn on our 1st try! Sequence of install also helpful...

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Glad it was helpful! And yes, the first go didn’t go so well, but felt so much better the second time around

[@dorvinion]

I think I've been inspired to give this a shot myself for an extra level of protection on our 3. Last weekend when prepping one of my older vehicles to sell I was looking it over real good and actually noticed just how rough the bugs are on a bumper cover. Suckers are almost as bad as rocks

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It’s honestly not an impossible job to do. And the best part is you can remove it at some point, although it’s tough to get off.

[@armandohernandez8124]

Thanks for posting this. Your point about being able to purchase several do-over kits and still come out under 10% of the quotes for a professional job is very important.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

100%

[@Vintage_Dave_T]

Way to go for it! I spent the $1700. Also they did mirrors, strips along the trailing edges of the four doors, and below the rear hatch where luggage could mar that lip. i1 Tesla showed how to do the mirrors. Good job.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Thanks for stopping by

[@Mazzty]

So glad I came across this, I pick up my Model Y next week and fully intend on doing this myself now

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Worth the try for thousand dollar savings!

[@themeparkdad]

Thank you oh great bearded one for posting this video. I wrote off getting PPF because of the cost of thousands of dollars. Now with your video, it seems quite doable. It does take some time for sure and that's why it costs a lot to get installed. I don't think it should cost quite as much as it does installed but it must be the " you can afford a luxury car so you can afford overcharging" that pumps it up. After doing this a couple of these it seems like your skills get better. There's an opportunity for an energetic person to install these PPF kits with reasonable labor charge to the Tesla community. I would take advantage of that...

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, it’s absolutely doable, especially if you can accept slightly less than perfect. I’m like you, I wrote off PPF because of cost. Then I came across this and thought, well, if it doesn’t turn out well, I’m out 250-300. Worth it!

[@themeparkdad]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy I drive a lot of highway miles and there's no room in the garage. I try to wash it weekly but sometimes it just gets rinsed. I use a Ceramic Coating spray and it does seem to help to clean off the car with just a rinse. I live in Southern California and it's been 90-100degF so I can only wash it early or late in the day. I want to try this PPF but I'll have to find a sheltered place to install that's not too hot. Unfortunately I may have to wait a few months to install.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

You need a friend with a garage

[@catzblu999]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy A garage and does it need to be in there for 4 days? You mentioned this was a multi-day job.

[@lauraanelsen9600]

Question on this- I bought the Pro kit for my model 3 and did the install and all went pretty well except the front bumper (which I saved for last as you suggested.) I did pretty well with exception to the very top front which I overstretched and needed to cut a bit off. So I am searching everywhere to find a comment I saw about a certain 3M adhesive to use at edges that have bubbled up and never stuck down. Do you know what that is? Thanks in advance!

[@tayinternational]

Very helpful , probably the biggest money saving tip I found on KZbin . I’m going to share this with ever Tesla owner I know

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Seriously, the savings will help lower your standards to what’s acceptable lol. I think ours didn’t turn out all that bad

[@tayinternational]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy I just want some protection on a cross country drive I’m about to do , I might even try to buy a few sets and install one just for the drive then take it off after I’m out west , then put on the 2nd one before the drive back east

[@gerardboulin6324]

Thanks for making this video because I'm very handy just like you and very patient too. So when i get my model y next year I will definitely buy the ppf and do it myself. You gave me inspiration to go for it and its not a bad price for purchase this precut ppf either.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I agree and you should go for it!

[@ddragon1235]

My PPF should be here Monday. Oh boy! Looks like a DIY for me as well.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

So awesome, you got this!

[@ddragon1235]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy It was damaged. In the process of returning and replacing it.

[@RobertMauck_lovelife]

Thank you for the insight!! I pulled the trigger and ordered this for my 21 model y coming in a couple weeks.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Seriously one of the upgrades I’m so glad I did

[@chrismcelroy5193]

Congrats to you for attempting this! Looks good! Something I would for sure consider for a Tesla. Just not sure if my OCD would allow me to complete this task.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, that's the hard part is getting it perfect. I do not possess the skills on a first attempt to get every bubble or crease out. But, I really wanted to better protect the front bumper, and this fits the budget!

[@perkschannel7053]

Thanks for your video. I watched and used it to do my Model 3 this weekend. The bumper is a PIA, but saving $1500 or more is priceless. My front end is protected and now I have peace of mind to drive the dusty roads of Riverside county. Thank you for this video.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

That’s it right there! Can you get it perfect? Not likely, but did you save over 1k while protecting your front bumper? Hell yes you did!

[@perkschannel7053]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy indeed. I'll ask about DIY installs and this was a good challenge.

[@tyncam24]

Appreciate your perspective and it certainly provides insight to the amount of time and complexity required to complete this process at home.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Glad you liked it!

[@jonah12705]

Thanks for all the great videos. You really helped my wife and I make the final decision on what we were going to do...we ordered her a Metallic Blue Model Y AWD Long Range with 20'' Induction rims today using your referral code. Can't wait to get it and give it the beans...

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It’s gonna be awesome! Congrats to you both!

[@driftx2]

I ended up doing the full front and didn't have to scrap any pieces other than a mirror which the seller gave me extras. Have alot of bubbles and a couple fingers but overall I'm very happy with the results and saved a bunch.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

That’s good to hear, and congrats on taking it on!

[@driftx2]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy I'm starting to have so dirt on the edges and a couple areas. where I didn't seal it well it got under. Will have to trim them off lol. I ordered xpel xr+ window tint to do that soon too.

[@teslaeng5965]

Thanks BTG, this is very helpful. I just ordered my PPF kit for my TMY and will be trying to brave my installation by following your video. Wish me luck!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Just remember to keep the PPF wet until you have it set. Just keep setting Avery thing while you are working on a section.

[@teslaeng5965]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy I am going to try this over the weekend and I am watching your video over and over again. For the hood part, you mentioned spraying on the slip solution and applying it, but I do not hear you saying to add the alcohol solution except for over the edges. So I don't need to apply the alcohol solution solution at the top section, is that right?

[@petegalindez9961]

Definitely a timely vid. I had my white MY wrapped with PPV in June. Got a gouge in the bumper that needs to be replaced and they want $800 to re-wrap just the front bumper (+ ceramic coat). Might go this route as I’m not as concerned about the aesthetic as much as the protection...thanks!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Ya oh got it!

[@MarkStatkus]

Super thanks for the tips. Did mine last night, and sure enough that front facia was a good 4 hours. Got the mirror done too!. Need to do the hood tonight. I definitely had fingers forming by the vent but that material least lets you massage things back pretty safely. Bit more stretching than anticipated! One thing not mentioned is arm hairs lol.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea man, good job! It is totally doable, and now having tried this with Xpel, I am finding the 3M required more stretching than I realized.

[@MarkStatkus]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy yea this was some extreme auto-yoga lol. Hood came out great, just have one fender and headlight left. I’ll checkout Xpel if it looks like its time to re-do next time.

[@notthatkindofsam]

I’m getting a model 3 but I’m not by any means well off. I just decided to make the ev shift. This is a great video! I’m planning on ppf and then ceramic coat over it

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Smart way to get the protection you want at a much better price.

[@grateful7839]

This was great. Very valuable information. Admirable that you sought out an economical way to protect the paint. Now if drove to your place, how much would you charge ? Just kidding. Appreciate your good work, all supporting your fine family. Much cheers

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Mucho gusto friend. Let’s see here, local pros charge 5k+, so how about $4,900? Lol

[@markkeiro7696]

I’d be cheaper flying you to the uk and helping me than using local provider 😉

[@leonyu9129]

This is very helpful. Will decide once I get my Model Y.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@logangsq1480]

Hell yea well done man, i just ordered same thing for my ride and i was totally gonna start with the front bumper too lol... Very helpfull and I think it turned out wicked man... And not like 4 or 5grand kinda wicked... Thats mental...

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, not worth it if you can do it “good enough” on your own

[@thefilmguy6497]

Good luck on the install! If you’re looking for a place to purchase the film, check out www.DriveProtected.shop and use PROTECTED10 for a 10% discount at checkout!

[@princessjones34]

How did it go I ordered mine and I knew after all these videos that I could not do it so I had to go to an installer which yes it’s a very pricey but so worth it! But if you did it on your own how did it go?

[@georgeborrelli3134]

I went ahead used your discount (thank you) and bought the entire front end for my Tesla M3P. You were honest that you wasted the first sheet you tried on the complex bumper. In spite of warnings, I still was thinking I could get it done. After watching many, many videos, I started with the hood as advised. OMG this is an art and quite difficult! I almost threw that first sheet away, and I think I should have! The first problem was pulling the large sheet off the backing. Almost impossible not to have a piece fold on itself! When that happens it's very bad news! That very first critical stage is the most difficult IMHO. I need to improve this part of the process. I don't have a professional hanging station. I'll have to come up with a better plan. Separation and handling requires a lot of finesse and experience. After all the difficulties pulling the backing off such a large sheet, I got behind. The sheet began sticking too hard, too soon. I needed to use MUCH, MUCH, MUCH more soapy water, much more quickly and constantly, to keep it sliding and to buy me much more time. I'm going to watch more videos and think it over before I try another section. If I knew how to remove a set sheet, I'd take the first one off.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

So you may need to add more soap to the water. While removing the film from the backer, make sure you are spraying it with soapy water as you pull. If it folds over, as long as you have enough slick solution on, it shouldn’t stick to hard.

[@georgeborrelli3134]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy I just did the bumper with much better results. I used a lot of soapy water. Actually a bit too much. That helped a lot! It's a steep learning curve!

[@valeriehartwick6917]

Think I’ll do this! Looked into a professional and at many non Tesla videos and blogs on PPE. Like this price point much better.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

100%. You can do this!

[@skinnystrad4241]

I got the full front kit from North Tints. Headlights no problem. Hood fairly simple. Fenders more difficult. Bumper a f”(|

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

the bumper is NOT easy.

[@jamesbuchanan3439]

If I were getting a wrap to change the color of my Tesla, then going with a professional would make more sense; but for a clear, strictly protective wrap, no way!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I agree!

[@ixidorstrinity]

There also exists colored PPF so you absolutely can do both!

[@ronaldfish1569]

It’s very nice that you’re trying to do it yourself and me personally I’d have a professional do it

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, it’s not a simple task, that’s for sure.

[@bobdavis7192]

I wish you would have called me. I would have lent a helping set of hands just to learn. Thanks for posting this and the money saving links. I'm definitely going to do it.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Next local event opportunity I’ll let you take a closer look!

[@djkinethix]

Bought it last week and will install it today... wish me luck! Thanks for your very informative video!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good luck! Just keep the film slick until you squeegee it out. Keep going back and spraying underneath

[@nacs]

9:04 "Baby Johnson" shampoo had me laughing (instead of "Johnson baby shampoo"). I don't own a Tesla yet but I still watched it through, nice work!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Haha, I do that sometimes…oh well lol

[@kyleknopik7300]

Dude!!! Great video. I spoke to 5 installers in my area that all quoted 1500-1900 for full front or 5k for a full wrap. This makes me think I might be able to tackle this instead!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yes you can! Worth the try at the price

[@raybailey1651]

I am going to order this. for $288 you cannot go wrong if you take your time. Thanks so much for sharing. I am just waiting for my deliver date. Once I have that, I will place my order. I will let you know how it goes

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good luck, certainly doable and you are right, what do you have to lose at that price?!

[@georgemorelos1216]

After watching your attempt, I may give it a try. I think yours turned out pretty good. No way I want to pay thousands to have this done. Thanks for the info.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea it’s totally doable!

[@mattfrekwentflier8342]

I live near Indy too. I agree with you 100% about the Tesla tax. I looked into the company you showed in the video, and they are absurd. If for your next Y you decide you don't want to DIY PPF/ceramic, check out Darrings Detailing on 86th St. We got full front PPF and 5 year ceramic on our MY for about 30% less than what the other, larger companies around here are charging. Thanks again for all of your videos!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers local!

[@estevanL76]

Man the Tesla Tax is a real thing! I took my model 3 t get window tint and they were quoting me some crazy prices!!!!! Same for the clear ppf on my bumper

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It is real

[@jasonedits459]

I’m gonna be doing it for the 3 very soon. Thank you

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers

[@simplytrece]

Great Video! this is really helpful bro, thank you. Only thing is 3M PPF is well known to go YELLOW after some time..have always been using Xpel.. but I really want to do DIY as well, thank you so much for showing us. I might have the courage to do it myself now =)

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I use a better product now, easier to use than the 3M stuff. HTTPS://driveprotected.shop use code BTG20 for a discount.

[@b4franco]

Your video and honesty are greatly appreciated. Is there any reason why you can't cut the bubble on the front wheel area and stick it down? If it sticks, I think a small cut line would be less noticeable than the bubble.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yes you can

[@chunglee352]

Wonder if using some masking tape or painter's tape to hold the wrap in place would help

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It would, but just make sure you don't leave any tape residue on the paint before the PPF covers that area.

[@jdiablito]

awesome video. I just got my model Y Can’t wait to apply ppf myself for a fraction of the cost !!!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Totally worth a try!

[@writegrace]

When you were doing the hood, you had sprayed with the slip solution until you got it aligned, then you squeegee out all the slip and bubbles. When and how do you use the alcohol spray then? After everything is perfect, pull up the film and spray the alcohol? Thanks!!

[@kevinmichel6224]

I wouldn’t have the patience for this project without 2 more hands. Still informative video, well done

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, it’s a lot of work, and patients is high on the list of must haves.

[@ngkayui]

Thank you very much. I totally agree with you, I will try and do it myself

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers!

[@tonynguyen830]

Wow another awesome video. I was looking at processionals to do this but it's so expensive! I think I'll give it a try like you.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Worth a try at that kind of savings!

[@tonynguyen830]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy one of my worries is that my garage is probably not a very clean area. Did you find it hard to keep dirt away?

[@tristanho2548]

Looks like North Tints on Ebay decided to stop selling or something happened:( Please update for us! Love the video and looking forward to doing this. Huge fan since day one

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I started partnering with an Xpel vendor with the new car. Check out our new vids, they have links to Xpel product there

[@scrmonterey]

Sam at North Tint is great to deal with and very helpful. Best service and response around.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

indeed

[@sharonherrin]

Very good 👍 and appreciate your honesty thanks I would tackle this after watching great content Mark

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@billledoux6727]

I appreciate your videos. Very informative and I’ve learned a lot from you. So I’d like some advice if you would provide: Back story. Picked up MY Sept 13th in Orlando. Did a complete wash, iron decontamination spray, clay bar, polish with buffer and Sonax Perfect Finish with medium and then fine pads. Then Griots Garage Ceramic 3 in 1 spray wax. Car looks AWESOME. I’d ordered PPF and realized I shouldn’t have used the ceramic wax. So I was going to strip it, put the PPF on the bumper, hood and fenders and use the Enviroshield Ceramic wax kit I saw on another video of yours. THEN last week someone backs into my Tesla :( Passenger side rear door....his fault....his insurance covering it. Dented and paint scratch on the door, wheel well trim buckled, scratched rim. ~$2k damage. It won’t get done at Tesla until end of November. Question I have is would you put the PPF on now but wait until the repair is done for the ceramic coat to be applied? How long should I let the paint repair cure before I ceramic coat it? What would you do? Thanks...Bill

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

You are gonna for sure want to do PPF before ceramic! Problem is timing as you suggest. Ask the body shop about paint cure time.

[@thetuxedotesla1149]

This is an amazing video. Thank you. 🙏🏼 We're getting our model Y in a couple of weeks and I just found your channel lol. So you have a new sub. A couple things, I don't think it's 5k to just get the bumper or the hood etc wrapped. 5k would be the whole car. But having said that, even at $1500 for a clear bra on the front, one can buy your kit and do it a few times over and still come out ahead. Kudos to you for a great job done. 🙂

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, I think I showed the front of car coming in around 1500+ from a pro. So much money to be saved if you are a handy person.

[@thefilmguy6497]

Definitely something you can do yourself if you take the time and properly educate yourself. Tons of videos on KZbin to help you with everything from surface prep, to what you need, to how to have a successful installation!

[@ricardoportillo4868]

Thanks for the great video. It wasn't really clear to me though when and how to use the 'tack' spray. Do I only use the tack solution for the 'finger' areas and places where I want it to dry quickly like of start of the bumper install?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Only use tack on the corners when you are ready to lay or in areas that aren’t laying down well

[@ricardoportillo4868]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Ok thanks!

[@gabem8119]

@Bearded Tesla Guy, I came across your video a few months ago and came back to it as I want to install PPF before my summer road trip. Exactly the type of video I was looking for and your explanation and advise is great! I’ll be putting PPF soon myself on my model 3 as I also do a lot of my work myself, I’m also handy and don’t like paying when I can do it myself. I noticed you didn’t mention using a hairdryer or heat gun, I’m thinking it would help with smoothing out the fingers on the edges.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Be very careful with a heat gun on PPF. If you use heat, let it cool off for 10 minutes or so before touching it. You can ruin PPF pretty easily with heat. Vinyl is more flexible with heat than PPF.

[@ajm854]

Great video Love your honesty with doing it Appreciate any tips and tricks you give us Watching from Australia Still waiting for our model y

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I’m praying for y’all down under to get access very soon! Such a great option for Australia!

[@DMerrill1980]

in honesty what do you think is more protective, his thing or the ceramic? I am not sure I get the difference. I am wanting to do something but I am not sure what to do. Our Y just came to us on Wednesday and I am taking it in to have Service look so hopefully they can tell me they will fix the door alignment issues. I love how the car looks given I am wanting to change the logo to have a black mat topper so it will not show as much and as it is a black car I want it to be all the way. I am also getting the Dual Motor part put in Black from Abstract Ocean. The tint went on this Saturday. Love how it looks and I want to make the car last. Curious if you have a USB HUB on yours I went with the Jeda Hub for the Y.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

This is 100% the best protection compared to ceramic. You can still put ceramic on top of it. Ceramic is just a coating, this is a layer of sacrificial barrier. Ceramic helps protect from stains and light scratches. Will not stop chips and deep scratches. This will stop a rock from chipping the paint.

[@DMerrill1980]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Okay so that is what I will want and someone who will install it as I am not handy by any means. I was like I do not want to go get one of those ugly leather bra's I used to see haven't seen any in years now. I definitely want to protect my car it was a lot of money to spend on such an item. I am planning on keeping it 6+ years actually plan on the battery giving out before I do on the car. Given by then hopefully, the battery will be a reasonable cost to replace. Thanks for your words of wisdom in this. Maybe one day I will do a KZbin and you can see my complete blackout Tesla Y.

[@jeffkermath1809]

Awesome video, many thanks! Going to order!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@timshephard]

At the end you mentioned the fingers and some bubbles. Did the bubbles ever work themselves out? Thanks!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Not all of them. I did use a needle to work some of them out though

[@ericlatreille5016]

Nice job! I am curious to know if after the last 7 months if the PPF WRAP is still in good shape? trying to compare with XPEL... which one is best?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Oh yea, it’s in great shape

[@Jbiglin]

Really informative video. I really appreciate it!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers

[@ayrton_rambles]

Great video, I'm actually looking to do this on an Audi and found it very insightful. I've been seeing quotes of ~$2k to do it professionally in my area, considering the price difference I think I'll give this a go myself. At the very least it will protect the car until I'm ready to spend the money on a professional install, or (hopefully) it will be nice enough to leave on the car!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, it’s completely worth the savings, in my opinion

[@RamseyNick]

I heard a steamer will work to shrink the corner pieces to fit better.

[@rijaylove5483]

Thanks for the video. Question After doing that would I be able to do ceramic coating on the DYI film? Would I be able to Buff it and polish, Ceramic Coating it after if gets dirty badly.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Indeed. That video is tomorrow!

[@piwproductions9805]

Your video really was a help. Got the hood and bumper done this weekend. Very doable. But one has to take their time and know they are going to sweat like a maniac in the summer even in the garage if there is no AC.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

haha, yea that sounds exactly like my experience! Good for you for going and doing it!

[@MarkSnop]

Great video! I never seem to have much luck even with a small cell phone screen protector so I can't imagine tackling the car! If I had a good helper might be a different story. Thanks again

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Lol, knowing your own limits is the most useful knowledge.

[@J350z777]

I just purchased this for my model 3! Thanks for sharing this product with us.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers!

[@mjlinhle]

look like north tints don’t sell anything now

[@sohaildelfani6426]

Thanks for your insightful videos. Does the PPF interfere with the front bumper radar? Thinking of going with the matte finish which could be an issue according to the owner’s manual. Thoughts?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

No issues on my end

[@darrenlee8981]

So how much easier is it to clean the bugs off the car now with the new wrap on ?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

A heck of a lot easier because you can scrub without worrying about scratches!

[@jcdosmann]

Very tempting. I know that I'd want to practice it a few times before I did my own car though.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea, it takes some getting used to. You could also order a second number cover and do the first one as practice. Still would save quite a Hefty sum. Do the hood and fenders first and you’ll get the hang of it before the bumper. It’s totally doable, especially if you can live with a blemish here and there

[@TreeHugger826]

Thanks! I just got an estimate for PPF & ceramic coating. $1850 for the front. Then $1399.99 for full ceramic coating. I see on other youtube installs that you really need to put ceramic on top to protect the PPF from the sun. Have you done that yet?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yes, I put ceramic on top of all my PPF. I have a video on that as well of course. Could not be easier to do. Seriously do it yourself, especially if its over PPF.

[@TreeHugger826]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Thanks!

[@TreeHugger826]

In process of ordering the full body kit. Do you rec. the one piece nose? Btw I think I will use a set of 2 car ramps $56 at Home Depot to raise the front when doing the nose, Then use 2 on a side when doing the doors and then use them to raise the back when doing the back. What do you think?

[@ih0nda]

My question is really for you and your subscribers and hoping i can get some answers since haven’t found any answers from the internet. Anyhow my question is did the ppf on your teslas deforms the hood/fender when it’s cold/hot? I know teslas qc and alignment is not their best but adding ppf can either make it worst when its cold as it shrink and expands when its hot. Hope it makes sense and thank you if ever you get a chance to reply.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Quality film won't warp in different weather conditions.

[@pspro51]

love it. Only concern i would have the fading that happens and the chance of having two different colors on you hood. But love this.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Ceramic coat on the paint will help with that

[@racer746]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Did you do it over the Ceramic coating? I want to Graphene coat my car first and then PPF but I have heard it won't stick

[@andrewewen]

I have been installing ppf for 15 years and the package you installed, I would charged around 700$ and would have no marks, bubbles or fingers. But it you are fine with those defects for the price of material only, then good on you, I certainly admire DIY. The model Y bumper is a difficult one.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea I’m good with the results as no one around here is charging sub $1k. Closer to 2k. That’s a lot more than this job was and it’s doing exactly what I wanted it to do, protect the bumper.

[@andrewewen]

2000$ is way over priced. For that price you should be able to get full hood, full fenders, mirrors, headlights and full bumper

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Yea that’s the package I showed in the video. Believe it was just shy of $1,800

[@sdelivera]

Thanks for posting this video. Did you cut out the PPF for the emblem or just lay it over the emblem and squeegee?

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It was pre cut

[@glassdomedesign]

Fantastic review and helpful particularly sharing the mistakes. I want to order a kit to here in the uk. Do you know if the kit fits the 2021 model 3? The ones they have listed show 2016-2020. Is the 2021 car slightly different? Thanks in advance

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I am unaware of changes on the model 3 from 2020 to 2021. That said, I could be wrong.

[@dannylemmon7123]

Great video. I think we are tempted to start on the number because that is the part that needs the ppf the most. I’m tempted to do this on my model 3 sr+ that’s coming Saturday. Between the accessories, window tint and stereo upgrade I think my wife is about done spending money for extra stuff though.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Haha I get it!

[@eddiekunigonis4908]

Great video, thanks for giving me the motivation to try this on my own!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Totally worth at least trying! Good luck!

[@petegalindez9961]

Watching your vid again as I’m going to do this today! One thought on the one finger by the sensor on your driver side...did you think about cutting that piece to help it sit down? As to adding a +1 to your recommendation to DIY, I had mine done professionally right after I bought it and paid to have the whole front done. Then, within two months my son scraped against another car’s trailer hitch exiting a parking space and the front bumper needed to be repaired. Which means, take off the PPF, repair and paint. So, I thought about just leaving it as is, but with the PPF around it, it does look a little off color. The PPF place where I had my car done wanted $750 to do just that bumper piece...no thank you! Cost me less to get the bumper fixed and re-painted! And, for $750, I would probably be able to get the front bumper wrapped in some funky way, like have them make it look like the car has a grill or something in a totally different color. So, my two teenage sons will also be helping me, so it’ll be fun to do a family project on a car together since we can’t really install a turbo, add a supercharger, or the like anymore! LOL. In the alternative, they will get a PhD in profanity and my wife will ban me from self-help projects for a while and put me in the chateau bow wow...wish me luck!! BTW, my initial install, that was professionally done by a local installer that does tons of high end cars (Lambos, 911s, Aston Martins, etc.) and I will say I can see edges that aren’t completely flat and dirt is along some of the edges. So, that was another motivator for me to do it myself.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Good luck with the install! I’m sure you will do great!

[@petegalindez9961]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Epic fail...I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy...or my best enemy for that matter too! My son and I wrestled with it for about 2 hours plus and it just never came together...not sure what happened, but the film seemed about a good 2-3 inches short and needed to be really stretched to properly cover the holes. In doing so, too many creases to get rid of were formed and it was like playing whack a mole...as my brother-in-law says, “Don’t invade a trade.” Not sure what I’m going to do now. Had I done this all from the beginning i would not have gotten the PPF when I purchased the car as I’ve never had it on any previous car I’ve owned including BMWs, Audis, and Porsches...But, now I have it on my hood, mirrors, and headlights but not the front fender. It’ll start looking really different sooner or later...But, not worth $750 to get done again. Might just get a wrap that costs about the same amount with some cool graphic on it like a grill and make it look like an Aston Martin! Thanks for all your vidz!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Oh man, I hate hearing that. It is for sure a hard job...not as simple as putting on some console wrap. The art I found was in the stretching. It is super easy to stretch it wrong, and once you have, it’s too late.

[@louismorejohn586]

Do you have an opinion about what coatings should, or should not be under the film? It seems that stripping all coatings, like wax, etc. and doing a clay bar detail would allow better film tacking.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It won’t stick to coatings. Coatings have to be done on top of the PPF

[@thefilmguy6497]

Great work on the installation!!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers

[@slee4110]

Really interested in this, not only for my future car, but also our current one. Problem is we don’t have a garage (they don’t really exist in our area). Is it not worth trying outside in the driveway? I was thinking of practicing with an easy trunk PPF for my husband’s car.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

You can try. Going to be very hard to keep dust and debris off the car while you lay down a piece of PPF

[@fly4fun24]

i am about to apply ceramic coating, should i do ceramic first??

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Ceramic goes after PPF

[@willfindjr]

Great job man.. I'm definitely gonna attempt this myself. watching a ton of YT videos LOL

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

Cheers

[@Marlin365]

Big road trip this week from Florida to Massachusetts in my brand new Model Y that I picked up Saturday. Have you run across any temporary way to protect the front bumper, I imagine I-95 will be tough on it. I don't have time for a DIY of PPE.Thought you might have a suggestion. Thanks!

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

It is going to sound crazy, and it wont be the best protection, but several layers of saran wrap...it mostly works. Will be good for bugs more than rocks

[@Marlin365]

@@BeardedTeslaGuy Great, thanks!