How Much Does PPF Cost?
A transparent guide to paint protection film pricing — what you'll pay, what affects the cost, and why it's worth every dollar.
PPF Pricing Overview
Partial Front
$500 – $1,500
Bumper, partial hood, mirrors
Best for: Budget-conscious protection
Full Front
$1,500 – $3,000
Hood, bumper, fenders, headlights, mirrors
Best for: Most popular choice
Full Body
$5,000 – $8,000+
Entire vehicle — every painted surface
Best for: Maximum protection
Prices are estimates for average-sized vehicles. Exact pricing depends on vehicle make/model, coverage area, and film type. Get an exact quote below.
What Affects PPF Cost?
Vehicle Size & Complexity
A Tesla Model 3 costs less than a Cadillac Escalade. Vehicles with complex curves, body lines, and larger panels require more film and labor time.
Coverage Area
Partial front (bumper + partial hood) is the most affordable option. Full front covers all high-impact areas. Full body provides complete protection but costs significantly more.
Film Brand & Quality
Premium films like XPEL Ultimate Plus cost more than budget brands but offer superior clarity, self-healing properties, stain resistance, and 10-year warranties.
Installer Certification
XPEL certified installers have completed factory training and meet strict quality standards. Certified installation ensures proper fitment and warranty coverage.
Paint Condition
If your paint needs correction (swirl marks, scratches, oxidation) before PPF installation, paint correction adds $300-$1,000+ to the total cost.
Additional Areas
A-pillars, rocker panels, door edges, luggage area, and headlights are common add-ons that increase the total price by $200-$800.
Is PPF Worth It? The Cost of NOT Protecting Your Car
The math is simple: A full front PPF at $1,500-$3,000 can prevent $5,000-$15,000+ in paint damage over its 10+ year lifespan. For luxury and exotic vehicles, the savings are even greater.
PPF vs Ceramic Coating: Which Do You Need?
💡 Pro Tip: Combine Both for Ultimate Protection
The best approach is PPF on high-impact areas (front end) topped with ceramic coating on the entire vehicle. This gives you physical protection where you need it most, plus hydrophobic and UV benefits everywhere. Ask us about our PPF + Ceramic combo packages.
PPF Cost FAQ
How much does PPF cost for a Tesla?
Tesla PPF typically costs $1,800-$2,500 for full front coverage and $5,500-$7,000 for full body on a Model 3/Y. Model S/X costs slightly more due to larger panels. Tesla's single-stage paint is thinner than most manufacturers, making PPF especially important for Tesla owners.
Does PPF increase my car's resale value?
Yes. A well-maintained PPF installation preserves your paint in like-new condition, which directly impacts resale value. Buyers pay premium prices for vehicles with protected, chip-free paint. The PPF itself can be removed before sale to reveal pristine paint underneath.
Can I install PPF myself to save money?
We strongly advise against DIY PPF installation. Professional installation requires specialized tools, a dust-free environment, and years of experience to avoid bubbles, lifting edges, and misalignment. A poor installation can damage your paint and void the film's warranty. The cost of correcting a failed DIY job often exceeds the original professional installation price.
Why is there such a big price range for PPF?
Price varies based on vehicle size (compact car vs. full-size SUV), coverage area (partial vs. full body), film brand (budget vs. XPEL premium), paint condition (may need correction first), and installer certification level. Always get an exact quote for your specific vehicle.
Get an Exact PPF Quote for Your Vehicle
Every vehicle is different. Tell us your make, model, and desired coverage and we'll provide an exact quote — no surprises, no hidden fees. XPEL certified installation with a 10-year warranty.
XPEL Certified Installer • 10-Year Warranty • Serving South Shore & Greater Boston