01-19-2016, 12:10 PM | #1 |
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Decisions, decisions. 3M or Xpel
Sorry, yet another 3M vs Xpel thread. I thought my local installer used xpel since that's what they said on their site. I called to setup the appointment and it turns out that they actually use 3M film. Supposedly because it has less orange peel or something. It explains the huge price difference and now I'm not getting the "deal" I thought I was getting.
So, here's my predicament. Local installer, using 3M, will do full front bumper, hood, fenders and mirrors for $1,200. Partial for $700. Installer 15 mins from PCD center, using xpel, will do full for $1,800 and partial for $900. It would also require me spending another night in Greenville, so there's that cost to consider. I can't swing the $1,800 since I'm already going to exceed my set limit. So, do I go full 3M or partial xpel? Thoughts? TIA.
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01-20-2016, 07:26 AM | #2 |
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No one has experience with both films?
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01-20-2016, 07:58 AM | #3 |
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Look on the other site where you asked the question.
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2015 M235xi coupe, Black Sapphire Metallic, Black Leather, Fineline Stream trim, Steptronic, xDrive, ZPP, ZTP, ZCW, ZDA, ZDB, 5DP, hk w/BimmerTech amp, Enhanced BT
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01-20-2016, 08:00 AM | #4 |
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Haha, thanks. I must not have turned on notifications on that festive thread. Thanks!
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01-26-2016, 08:14 PM | #6 |
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I think i can help you here. I did my front hood in xpel but my full Front and rear bumper is with 3m. xpel is more thick and self healing so it looks new 24/7, downside - orange peel. It can be quite obvious at certain angles under the sun or when im waxing looking at it in detail. 3m - more natural looking but easiler to mark/wear down/stain. I tend to wipe it down and give a bit a spray wax after every drive to prevent any debris from staining. The 2 series front bumper is very sharp looking, there will be edges from the computer cut which will trap dirt and lift. I assume this applies to all cars. Majority of the shops i go to still use 3m because of its price and easier to stretch (easier install.) Xpel is better for straight runs, less bends like hood or rocker panels. Hope this helps.
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01-26-2016, 08:50 PM | #7 | |
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01-27-2016, 10:04 AM | #8 |
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from the look of my xpel install i'd say the orange peel effect is over hyped. was surprised at just how good it looked.
with a solid installer i wouldn't worry about the increased difficulty, my front bumper got a full wrap with wrapped seams and it's pretty hard to find a sign it's got wrap. |
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01-27-2016, 01:15 PM | #9 | |
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Bug stains in the summer are a pain especially driving on the highway
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