3M Paint Protection Film – Care Instructions

Cure Time Details

3M Paint Protection Film (PPF) – Automotive Application

Your vehicle has received a professional PPF installation using 3M high-performance film. Although the film has been applied and bonded to the surface, it is still in its curing phase.

Minimum Cure Time:

  • 7 days under normal weather conditions (70-85°F, moderate humidity)
  • Drive time is immediate, but curing takes place over the first week

Weather-Related Exceptions:

  • Cold Weather (under 60°F): May extend cure to 10-14 days
  • Rain or Humidity: May delay the evaporation of installation moisture
  • Slight bubbles or haze during this time are normal and part of the curing process
  • Sunlight will help speed up cure time

What You Can & Can’t Do During Cure

To ensure proper bonding and long-term performance, follow these instructions carefully for the first 7 days after installation:

DO NOT:

  • DO NOT Wash the vehicle for 7 full days
  • DO NOT Use automatic, touchless, or brush car washes for at least 14 days
  • DO NOT Apply wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings unless done by LuxeArt
  • DO NOT Press, pick at, or attempt to fix any bubbles or lifted edges
  • DO NOT Park under trees where sap, bird droppings, or excessive debris can fall
  • DO NOT Pressure wash near seams or film edges – at any time

YOU MAY:

  • Drive the vehicle immediately after pickup
  • Park outdoors or indoors – sunlight helps accelerate curing
  • Lightly dust the film surface with a clean, dry microfiber towel (no chemicals or spray)

Bubbles, Haze, Shrinkage & Edge Lift Notice:

  • Light moisture bubbles and haze are normal for up to 7 days, and may persist up to 14 days depending on temperature and humidity.
  • Slight shrinkage or edge lifting may occur during the first week. These conditions are common and expected as the film settles.

These conditions are NOT considered installation defects unless:

  • Bubbles larger than a quarter remain after 10 days
  • Debris is visibly trapped under the film
  • Lifting is excessive or compromises the film’s protection

If you’re unsure, LuxeArt offers a free inspection within 10 calendar days of installation. Any correction requested after that window will be billed as a standard post-install service unless covered by warranty.

3M Paint Protection Film (PPF) – Warranty

Warranty Coverage ∓ Customer Responsibility

3M Paint Protection Film – Installed by LuxeArt

Your PPF is backed by a 10-Year Limited Warranty from 3M, valid only when installed by an authorized 3M Pro Shop like LuxeArt.

What’s Covered by Warranty:

  • Yellowing, cracking, or delamination of the film
  • Lifting or peeling caused by adhesive failure
  • Staining or discoloration not caused by chemical exposure
  • Manufacturer-related defects in clarity or adhesion

This warranty covers the film for 10 years from installation, as long as it remains professionally installed and unmodified.

What’s NOT Covered:

  • Physical damage (rock chips, scratches, impact)
  • Chemical damage from bug removers, harsh soaps, or degreasers
  • Improper care or neglect (failure to follow post-care instructions)
  • High-pressure washing near edges or seams
  • Edge lifting caused by tampering, picking, or improper cleaning
  • Shrinkage or bubbling caused by heat guns or DIY touch-ups
  • Film reinstallation, removal, or modification by anyone other than LuxeArt

Important Liability Terms:

  • You must report any suspected defect within 10 calendar days of installation for LuxeArt to evaluate the issue.
  • Corrections after that window are billable services, unless a verified warranty issue is identified.
  • Any film removed, tampered with, or modified by another party will void the warranty.
  • Warranty applies to the original purchaser and is non-transferable.

Panel-Specific Notice:

LuxeArt applies film to a wide variety of surfaces, but the following areas are not covered under standard warranty due to environmental stress or adhesion limitations:

  • Textured plastics or unpainted surfaces
  • High-exposure panels such as roofs, hoods, or tops of bumpers
  • Aggressive curves, recessed areas, or tight panel transitions

These areas are installed for cosmetic protection only and are not guaranteed to hold long-term under normal wear.