My clear bra on just the bumper has yellowed so I was thinking about having it replaced when I go in for a detailing. Funny thing is that it's only the front bumper that has yellowed, the hood, lights and mirrors are fine. I have spoken to two installers, one who likes SunTek, the other Xpel Ultimate. They both warned of the risk of damage to the paint when removing a clear bra, especially the bumper where the bond of the paint to the plastic bumper is weaker. They put the risk at about 5%, which to me seems high and is a legitimate concern/hesitation. I'm sure the risk is dependent on the manufacture and maybe even the color of the paint.

Has anyone removed clear bra from their bumper, were there any issues and what color is your car?

 

Yes, I removed it on original paint with no issues. The installer used steam to peel it off. Like anything, it can be risky, but steam, is the safest way. Regarding SunTek, Xpel and 3M, you'll talk to 3 people and you'll get 3 answers. I've used them all on multiple cars, and think 3M has an edge, but all are very good.

 

If you haven't already, I recommend talking to Dave at Atlanta Auto Salon in Alpharetta. He seems very knowledgeable.
Did you ever decide on the exhaust?

 

how long have you had it, it might still be under warranty. have a clear bra installer remove it, not a detailer.

 

I have done this with no issue. The first clear bra was applied day one and simply started to show its age. Took the car to my local detailer whom I trust and he replaced it no problem. I'm confident that newer technology in the current product is improved, which may help prevent the discoloration.

 

I actually met with Dave earlier today. He was actually the second shop I stop in at. The first washed using one bucket and did the wheels last; I will not be going there. Dave, on the other hand, seemed very knowledge and he shared a lot of knowledge with me.

I have not yet decided on an exhaust, I've been too tied up with cosmetics and stereo to focus on performance parts yet... But that will come
I bought the car second hand and the bra was installed previously. It had a 5 year warranty, but that ran out late last year. Both places I talked to used either installed films themselves or brought in specialists to do the work.

 

There shouldn't be any issues at all when removing film from factory paint. If its a respray that a different story. Use a little heat and it should come off fairly easily. I will add 3M is very difficult to get off as it leaves the adhesive behind. Also stay away from 3M. The film has a lot of orange peel, the adhesive is too strong, and it is not self healing. We think Suntek is the best followed closely by Xpel Ultimate.

 

Thanks pt,

Also I think M3 just came out with a new self-healing film, but obviously mine is not that and your advise is very much appreciated. Re the new film, I read great things about Xpel Ultimate, Suntek and Nano. In the end it may just come down cost, as there is a massive difference in price between the three.