Is It Normal for Paint Protection Film to Have Bubbles?
2 Answers
Bubbles in paint protection film caused by moisture are normal and can dissipate through natural evaporation. However, if the bubbles result from poor-quality film or improper installation techniques, then it is not normal. Here is some relevant information about paint protection film: 1. Film Quality: Using low-quality automotive film, which is of poor quality, can easily lead to bubbles and wrinkles, and is prone to delamination, resulting in hollow bubbles after delamination. 2. Service Life: The lifespan of paint protection film is 5 to 10 years. Many car owners choose to apply paint protection film to protect the original factory paint. Currently, there are three popular materials used for paint protection film in the market: PVC, TPH (a softened version of PVC), and TPU.
Small bubbles appearing after installing a paint protection film (PPF) are actually quite common. I encountered this when I had my own car wrapped. Especially right after installation, air or moisture trapped beneath the film can form tiny bubbles, but don't worry—this is usually normal. High-quality films have good breathability, and small bubbles typically disappear on their own within a day or two, just like when applying a phone screen protector. I've seen many fellow car owners' examples, and most advise against poking or pressing the bubbles—let them vent naturally. If the bubbles are too large or haven't disappeared after a week, it might be an issue with the installation technique, such as uneven adhesive application or improper air removal during application. In that case, it's best to return to the shop and let the professionals handle it to avoid accidentally scratching the paint. Overall, choosing a reliable PPF shop is crucial. After installation, avoid washing the car or exposing it to direct sunlight immediately to allow the film to properly conform to the body. In most cases, the bubbles are temporary and won't affect the long-term protective performance.
