I will let you know how the PPF looks on my 2017 "old" car. I actually put on the mud guards on my front wheels shortly after getting the car in Nov per the above forum post which made the process very simple.

 

Any good Xpel dealer will highly recommend a paint correction prior to installing the film. You’re correct, if the car is chipped up, they can still do the paint correction, but the chips will still show thru the film. As far as will the film still hold, that’s not a problem unless you had chips so bad that it wouldn’t make sense to film it anyway.

 

The choice between ceramic coating and PPF depends on needs, preferences, and budget. Ceramic coatings provide chemical and UV resistance, hydrophobic effect, and enhanced gloss but offer limited impact protection. PPF offers physical barrier, scratch and impact resistance, and self-healing properties. Some combine both options. Consider specific driving conditions and budget when deciding.
Here are a few great paint protection films please check-
​​​​​​https://cardetailingplanet.com/best-...tection-films/

 

I bought my 2016 R a few years ago with 11k on the odometer. I had paint correction done, PPF with Xpel on the entire front facia, hood, front fenders, A pillars, side skirts and rear behind the tires. Then I had the entire car ceramic coated including glass and rims. They touched up a couple areas prior to all the above work and I think it came out great. I have no regrets doing it "after the fact" or on a "used car." I think it would really depend on how many chips and issues you have with a used car if it is worth it or not. In my case the car was exceptionally clean.

 

I have the ppf on the front end, full hood, ceramic coat for the rest. Cost $3,200.00. I am happy with the results. Car had 100 miles on the odometer when it was installed.

 

For those who don't want to go the wrap route I highly recommend Hybrid Solutions ceramic spray. My process is to clay bar with Meguiars white clay bars using their Quick Detailer, wipe down with 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and apply the ceramic spray being careful to keep it off the windshield and other glass. I did not like the result of getting the product on my windshield in particular and nothing, I mean nothing, would remove it--not soap and water, not alcohol, not paint thinner, not acetone, not brake cleaner. The only thing I didn't try was steel wool, but time and driving through one hurricane and some monster rain storms finally did it.
Just my method and the stuff lasts incredibly well. I do it every six months even though it is still very hydrophobic after that interval.

 

I haven't found anything yet that can't be removed from glass with a flat razor blade. Something to keep in mind for the future.

 

I just wish there was product that repelled dust and pollen.
Seems like my car is dust magnet!!

 

A good DIY ceramic coating, like Avalon King's Armor Shield, will let you basically rinse off the dust and pollen. It's surprising how easy it is to keep a clean car when you start with ceramic coating.

Also, unlike Sassy Sarah, I coated my windows on purpose and I prefer it that way. She's right, though, that nothing will remove the coating easily except whatever solvent is used in the original coating product (the solvent that evaporates and leaves the coating behind).

 

I do have a DIY ceramic coating.
It is easy to clean.
The problem is that the car seems to have an electrostatic attraction for fine dust.