Should I apply the car film myself or have it done at the 4S shop?
2 Answers
First, check the quality of the film by feeling its thickness. Generally, very thick films are of lower quality and cheaper. Also, see if you can see outside from inside the car after the film is applied. If you can, it's a good film. After evaluation, if the film is of good quality, it can be accepted. Summary: For free films offered by 4S shops, assess the quality of the film and confirm whether it includes the front windshield. If the film is of poor quality or doesn't cover the front windshield, you can choose to apply it yourself later. Additional Information: Quality inspection of car films: Check if there are any dust particles or bubbles in the entire heat-insulating film. Ensure the edges are firmly adhered. Edges are most prone to dust accumulation and test the technician's attention to detail.
Last year, I tried applying window film to my new car myself, thinking I could save some money, but it turned out to be quite troublesome. I bought a heat-insulating film kit online for less than 200 yuan, while the 4S shop charged around 800 yuan. During the process, I found the window curvature was large, and using a squeegee to remove bubbles easily scratched the glass. I even tore a small piece of the film. It took me most of the day, and the result was barely acceptable, with bubbles forming at the edges. Later, a friend recommended going to a professional shop, where they did a great job in just 2 hours. If you have strong DIY skills and enjoy it, you can give it a try, but make sure to prepare tools like a heat gun and cleaner. Cleaning the glass thoroughly is crucial—any dust getting in would be a disaster. In short, DIY is okay if you're on a tight budget, but the failure rate is high. I recommend beginners go directly to a 4S shop or a professional film shop for a hassle-free and better result.
