I've ordered and had proffessionally painted an OEM aero front lip, GT2 side sills, and rear valance.

Is it worth the extra cost to have the parts covered with clear film before installing on the car? Curious to hear from those who have and haven't gone this route.

Thanks!

 

I would say definitely as far as the front lip. Within 3 weeks of ownership I got a stone chip on the lower edge of lip the size of dime. This was the only part on the front end that was not protected by clear bra because the dealer was going to replace it because of a small scratch. I'm going to put it on replacement. I have 2100 miles on car and no other rock chips/road rash.

 

i vote yes on that one

 

I wish I could of had them covered prior to installation. FWIW I would use the 3M scotchguard as it is the most durable and correctible since it has a clear coat. I used that on my car for all surfaces that the wind hits. I did use the venture on my hood b/c the scotchguard was not wide or long enough to catch the whole hood.

Also had scotch guard placed in he wheel well lips and behind rear wheels.

 

I would

 

Definately wrap them. Some pieces may be easier to install film on once they are on the car as it will be more stable.

 

Front lips going to get scratched regardless of protection, it's not stones or rocks to worry about on that piece.

 

I would. I had my painted and immediately protected with the rocker panel package.

they put extra thicker film on the bottom of the front lip for when it bottoms out leaving driveways etc. that way the film scrapes vs the painted lip. You can always replace the film

 

I would put film on the front of the lip but not on the underside. The underside will get scratched and the film will start to hang off like dead skin and it is nearly impossible to clean-up and looks pretty ghetto

 

agreed & also do the wheel wells

 

True. I have found a black tape made for boat trailers that works very well for the underside of the front bumper. It is pretty thick and has a texture to it so you dont slip while getting on the trailer... but for cars it is VERY durable, doesnt tear, and can easily be replaced if it gets too tore up. It comes in a roll about 2" wide and I believe I got it at AutoZone.

 

Thanks for the suggestions guys. Looks like it's the right thing to do.

Was wondering about the underside of the front lip too, maybe I'll try that.

 

I've always considered the front lip on these cars a throw away item. Mine is trashed after two years from all sorts of stuff, although I am lowered.... but the main reason why I never bothered to paint it. I'm curious to see how the film holds up for you. I've just planned on changing mine every couple of years.

 

The aero front lip will get wiped out either way (I am on my third one but I live in a city). I wouldn't dream of ordering the front lip painted unless I purchased them in lots of 5 or more.

 

Thanks...I know I'm taking an expensive risk on this but want to see how it turns out.

The EOM aero front lip that comes ready to paint is not cheap, it's roughly 5-6 times the cost of the standard black lip, and this doesn't include the cost to then have it painted and wrapped. Actually, I found the all the OEM peices I ordered that come primered are significantly higher than the black. Figured I try it this way to help ensure it looks as if it rolled out that way.

It's not my daily driver, which should help on the wear and tear.