3M Paint Protection Film

[cbielat]

I had ordered the 3M paint protection film for the front bumper,grill surround and headlights from Invisiblemask.com for my 2011 T4R SR5. Today I had installed the headlight film. This is the first time I had ever done this install and it came out pretty good in the end for not being a professional installer and never working with the product before. If anyone has any tips or experience on this type of install, please don't hesitate to inform. What have your experiences been?

 

[ROBSCOOL]

Just did my 2011 Limited front bumper and grill using the pre-cut kit from the same place you purchased yours.
I am still debating doing the hood, fenders, head lights and mirrors.

The install was a pain in the butt, but it was totally worth DIY and saving hundreds. My only advice- keep the slip solution soapy and have lots of patience. You will need to stretch, hold, spray and squeegee all at the same time.

 

[cbielat]

Like I have said, I have never used the product before or anything similar to it. I began with my lights and the next day moved to the front grill and middle part of bumper. It came out pretty decent considering those facts. I still have the bottom bumper portion to complete. I know it is going to rain for the next few days and I have applied the film. Will the rain damage what I have done so far? I know it says not to wash the car for about three days after applying. I'm hoping the rain will not effect my application.

 

[offroadingatc]

Its not easy, even pro installer have some minor flaws in their work. I have done one car (thankfully a white one) and I can second what ROBSCOOL said.

Other than that:
-Be realistic! It wont be perfect
-Be patient, it takes a long time to do it well
-consider wearing a hair net - don't laugh, I've seen a ton of clear bras with hair behind them
-silvering will go down with time, so the day you install it is the worst it should look (other than the inevitable perforations)

 

[deekoi]

While you're at it, I'd put some under the door handles too. Prevent all the nail and key scratches. See linked post.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/92170-inspired-others-3m-matte-black-te-hood-2.html#post810550

 

[cbielat]

Thank you all for your insight.

 

[4Runnerspv]

I LOVE that film!! I had it on my '06 Tundra!!

In fact, I asked my dealer about it, and they had no clue. They told me too call the body shop. I had my last one done at the dealer. I want it on my TE!

 

[Bugser]

While you're at it, I'd put some under the door handles too. Prevent all the nail and key scratches. See linked post.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/92170-inspired-others-3m-matte-black-te-hood-2.html#post810550

I had mine done professionally and the installer told me there would be minor flaws, he was right........however, I did not have the time nor inclination to do it....it came out well and am pleased with the product and job....