Should I Apply Paint Protection Film or Window Tint First for a New Car?
2 Answers
There is no absolute rule on whether to license a new car first or apply film first, as whether a new car with film can be licensed mainly depends on whether the installed sun film meets the specified standards. Motor Vehicle Operation Safety Regulations: Currently, the vehicle management department mainly refers to the GB7258-2004 "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety" promulgated and implemented in 2004. Article 11.6.4 of this standard stipulates: "The driver's compartment of a motor vehicle must ensure the driver's forward and side vision. The visible light transmittance of the front windshield and the glass outside the windshield used in the driver's viewing area must not be less than 70%. Mirror-reflective sunshade films are not allowed on any window glass." Unqualified Window Films: There are mainly two types of unqualified window films: one is mirror-reflective film, which completely obscures the view inside the car; the other is overly dark film, mainly found on rear window films. Vehicle models mainly include Changan minivans, small trucks, and relatively inexpensive small cars, which typically use inferior window films.
As someone who frequently deals with new car maintenance, I believe it's wiser to apply paint protection film (PPF) first. When a new car is fresh out of the factory, the paint surface is most vulnerable to damage. Applying PPF is like putting a protective suit on the car's paint, guarding against scratches, acid rain, and UV rays. If you install window tint first, workers might repeatedly wipe the car body during the installation process, or tools could accidentally touch the paint, requiring adjustments after the film is already applied. I've seen cases where friends installed tint first, only to have the window film bubble or deform when using a heat gun to apply PPF to the edges later, wasting money. Additionally, PPF application requires a completely clean and dry car body—new cars from the factory have minimal dust, making them ideal for quick installation. After applying PPF, wait two days for it to cure before installing window tint—this sequence is logical and time-efficient. As for window tint, its primary purposes are blocking strong light and ensuring privacy, so delaying its installation isn't an issue. In short, prioritize PPF as soon as you get a new car to ensure perfect paint protection, then consider other additions.