Windshield Chip Protection?

[blueroadster]

Any end user experiences on using front windshield film or other options to minimize marks/chips from road debris?

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[Clark_Kent]

Yes, I have Exoshield on the windshield of two cars I own, including the FL5. I posted about it here.

The post is dated so I've had it on the car now for over 3 years. Happy to answer any questions you have.

 

[YevNi]

Glad to see this...
Has anyone used integra/acura windshields? My thought is they might get thicker glass for noise/damage.

I don't recall getting chips before my current car >~<

 

[iDerek2]

I've installed Xpel's Windshield PPF / Works as it should. has definitely saved me from Rock Chips.

 

[blueroadster]

Good to know...Thanks! Some additional questions:

1. Any long term durability issues such as streaking or wear from the wipers, yellowing, clouding, delamination, etc.?
2. What is the expected lifetime before removal and replacement is recommended?
3. Any regrets or things to consider if you were on the market looking at options available today?

 

[Clark_Kent]

Good to know...Thanks! Some additional questions:

1. Any long term durability issues such as streaking or wear from the wipers, yellowing, clouding, delamination, etc.?
I haven’t experienced any yellowing, clouding, delamination, or anything like that over the long term on the FL5. No major issues with streaking or noticeable wiper wear either, but I do think owner care plays a big role in how these films age. If you abuse it, it’ll eventually look rough.

The biggest thing is being mindful with the wipers. I avoid running them dry, especially if there’s dust, sand, or debris on the windshield because if a small rock gets trapped under the blade, you absolutely can scratch the film. I treat it more carefully than bare glass. Honestly, with the coating I use on the windshield, I don't recall ever using the wipers.

2. What is the expected lifetime before removal and replacement is recommended?
The installer mentioned the film lasts for about 3 years. The lifespan depends on environment and maintenance. Mine still looks just as good as install day after 3+ years, so I haven’t had any reason to replace it yet. It clearly picked up some chips, which is the point of it but it looks great. Someone constantly doing highway miles behind trucks in harsher climates, stores the car outside, and/or rarely washes it may have a different experience. I intend to have it removed at around 5 years and reapplied or sooner if it begins to look bad.

3. Any regrets or things to consider if you were on the market looking at options available today?

Zero regrets. Understanding the different product lines and warranty are important before moving forward. I had the film replaced under warranty on the GT4 after about 18 months on the car. I sent a few pictures to Exoshield and the warranty was approved in less than 36 hours. There was a strange haze on the film, clouding maybe? It's not clear it was a film issue. Before replacing the film, the installer attempted to use a claybar to remove the haze and it seemed to work; however, it was already approved so I had him just replace it. This occurred 18 months ago. Haven't had an issue since.

If keeping OEM glass in excellent condition matters to you, it’s a worthwhile option. That said, I haven’t really followed the market since getting mine installed, so I’m not up to speed on what the latest and greatest products are today. When it's time to remove it, I'll reassess and go from there.

 

[iDerek2]

Good to know...Thanks! Some additional questions:

1. Any long term durability issues such as streaking or wear from the wipers, yellowing, clouding, delamination, etc.?
2. What is the expected lifetime before removal and replacement is recommended?
3. Any regrets or things to consider if you were on the market looking at options available today?

I’ve unfortunately driven too many times in the rain, the PPF eventually will start streaking.
I usually keep in Sun so it has some self healing properties but you can see the streak.

Xpel gives a 6 month warranty but I’ve only changed it once a year

haven’t had any regrets yet as I haven’t tried any other brands.

 

[blueroadster]

I’ve unfortunately driven too many times in the rain, the PPF eventually will start streaking.
I usually keep in Sun so it has some self healing properties but you can see the streak.

Xpel gives a 6 month warranty but I’ve only changed it once a year

haven’t had any regrets yet as I haven’t tried any other brands.

Thanks...My car is parked in the sun for the most part so UV degradation is another consideration. Rain and wiper use also apply.

Not sure if windshield waxes or coatings would be beneficial to consider as an addition or alternative.

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