Thoughts on a 3M clear bra

[moymch]

I found a place here in Germany who applies the 3M clear bras. Does anyone have one of these on a black vehicle? I have seen them on light colored cars and they look fine, how does it show up on dark colored cars? The guy is going to give me a good deal for my X3. Total front mask, 12 inches on the hood (or less if I want), front fenders to match hood and mirrors for 300 Euros less tax. How long do these bras last and do they fade or yellow? Thanks for the help.

[Bavarian]

I think you're being offering a good deal.

I have this product on the ML500. I have it 14 inches on the hood, all of the front bumper, and both mirrors. I paid $800 Canadian for this...which is roughly 550 Euros.

Granted the ML500 is a sandy color, so you won't see it at all. I think on dark cars you might see the line easier, but this thing serves its purpose very well in my opinion.

[peoe2]

I've seen a beige X5 with it, there is a line when you look closely but other than that it looked fine.

I am wondering though how good those things are for the paint, since basically the paint will still be exposed to the sun and you won't be able to wax/maintain the paint on the areas covered by the bra.

[moymch]

Good question! Anyone have any input? I'm told the product will be guaranteed, but I didn't ask about how the paint on the vehicle will be after a couple of years. My biggest worry is that the paint that is not covered will fade before the paint under the 3M film does.

[pseto]

I've had mine on for 2+ years now and there's no difference in paint color. Maybe someone thats had their's on longer can chime in too. I've seen pics of both light and dark color cars with them, and don't think that the darker ones are more easier to see. It really depends on how clean you keep it; its the dirt that accumulates on the edges are what shows.

[Scottie]

I had the 3m clear bra fitted to one of my Mini Cooper S. You do notice a line going accross the hood which can become more noticeable when the car had been polished as the polish build up at the line of the clear bra.

There is no doubt that it's protect's the paint from small chips etc etc but what you end up with is a film on the car that's all chipped instead of the paint which after a years or so can start to look a bit awful.

Fi.

[AlanL]

Go for it - the line that is visible isn't any near as bad as the rock chips it will prevent....

[blackpig]

get the bra. I done mine few weeks ago. it's worth it.
I can see the line in certain angle with sterling gray color, but it's no biggy.

Funny thing is, after the bra installed, the rocks started to hit where the bra is not covered.

[TikiGod]

Hey Moymch,
Where is this guy located in Germany?
TikiGod

[Mindfull]

Originally Posted by blackpig

get the bra. I done mine few weeks ago. it's worth it.
I can see the line in certain angle with sterling gray color, but it's no biggy.

Funny thing is, after the bra installed, the rocks started to hit where the bra is not covered.

Smart Rocks! LOL