Frequently asked questions
Answers to what we get asked most. If your question is not here, write to us below.
About Tesla-Protect
What is Tesla-Protect?
Tesla-Protect is a young brand specializing in the development and manufacture of precision-cut paint protection films for Tesla. We currently ship over 500 units per month to end customers and providers across Europe. Our films offer outstanding value for money and are ideal for do-it-yourself application.
Which films do you offer?
We offer two film qualities, which you can select directly as a variant on most products:
- Standard PPF (vinyl): approx. 160 µm, transparent glossy, high protective effect (★★★★★), lifespan approx. 4–6 years. Best value for money – ideal for leased vehicles and short-term paint protection.
- High-End TPU PPF (TPU): approx. 157 µm, transparent glossy, high protective effect (★★★★★), lifespan up to 9 years, with a self-healing effect and highly water-repellent – ideal for long-term paint protection and a high-end look.
Is investing in paint protection film financially worthwhile?
Absolutely! Paint protection film keeps your car looking as good as new even after years – a clear advantage when reselling or returning a lease. And because you apply the film yourself, you save on the labor costs of a professional installer.
What color is the paint protection film?
The paint protection film is clear, glossy and transparent, making it barely noticeable on the vehicle.
What is a paint protection film and what are the advantages of a precision cut?
A paint protection film (also known as a stone-chip protection film) is a special film that protects your Tesla from stone chips and scratches. It is clear, transparent and high-gloss (matte films available on request). Our films are precision-cut – so you don't need a knife for trimming. You'll find plenty of instructions and tips in our YouTube videos, and we include the application tools right in the box.
Which Tesla models do you offer films for?
We offer precision-cut films for the popular Tesla models: Model 3, Model 3 “Highland” (incl. Performance), Model Y and the new Model Y “Juniper” (Standard, Premium and Performance). You'll find the right option directly in the shop or via the menu.
How long does the paint protection film last?
That depends on the film type. The standard PPF should be removed after 5 years at the latest, the high-end TPU after 9 years at the latest.
For context: most Tesla drivers keep their car for 4 to 5 years. The standard film covers that period. The TPU film also covers much longer ownership.
Which film type should I choose?
Both films protect the paint from stone chips, scratches and abrasion, and both are completely transparent. The difference is the material: the standard PPF is the proven classic, the high-end TPU is more elastic and therefore a little more forgiving on strongly curved areas. The service life differs too, 5 years against 9.
Both versions are precision cut for the same part of the car. You pick the type directly on the product.
How do I know which model I have?
The easiest way is to compare the product photos, you will usually spot it right away. If you bought your car recently, a Model 3 is certainly the “Highland” and a Model Y the “Juniper”. Those are the code names of the two facelift models.
On the Model 3 the change came in October 2023: the “Highland” has narrower headlights, no indicator stalks and a smooth front. On the Model Y you recognise the “Juniper” from 2025 by the continuous light bar at the front and rear.
If you are unsure, send us a photo of your front end in the live chat. We will tell you straight away which set fits.
What is the difference between a front kit and the full set?
The front kit covers the front of the car, the areas that take the most punishment while driving.
The full set covers every painted part of the car.
Do I get a discount if I order several parts?
Yes, the discount is applied automatically in the cart, no code needed. From 180 € you get 3 %, from 450 € 5 %, from 1,000 € 8 % and from 2,350 € 10 %. Shipping within the EU is free from 100 €.
A bar in the cart shows how far it is to the next step.
Installation
Can I install the films at home?
Yes! The precision manufacturing of our films ensures flawless self-installation. When installing, the outside temperature should be at least 20 °C and there should be no wind, so that no dust gets between the paint and the film. We recommend a well-lit garage or hall with plenty of space around the car.
What do I need for application and how do I apply the films to the car?
All paint protection films come with a spray bottle and a squeegee. You should also have paper towels and lint-free or microfiber cloths on hand. The self-adhesive film is peeled off the backing paper and sprayed with the application fluid on the adhesive side; the parts to be protected are sprayed as well. Then you begin applying the film. For some films (e.g. on the bumper), we recommend a hairdryer or heat gun to help conform the film. You won't need any other tools or a knife.
Do I need to clean my Tesla before application?
Yes, definitely! It's best to run your car through a car wash before application and then thoroughly clean the relevant surfaces of insects, tar and other stubborn particles. Immediately before application, remove any fine dust once more with a microfiber cloth. Existing paint damage or contamination will not be concealed by the film and will remain visible.
Can I use my Tesla again immediately after installation?
We recommend letting the film dry for at least 24 hours at a minimum of 20 °C (ideally in the garage). Any remaining fluid should dry completely so that the adhesive can develop its full bonding strength. Depending on the environmental conditions, this phase can be shorter or considerably longer (especially for window tint films). Ignoring this can allow dirt to get under the edges and create permanent dark edges there. If you have urgent trips to make, you can temporarily tape the edges with masking tape.
What can I do if the film keeps lifting at the edges?
This usually only happens when the application fluid hasn't fully dried yet – even if the film already appears dry. Be patient and press the edges down again several times if needed. Professionals let the fluid evaporate overnight and do the check or a quick touch-up the next morning. A heat gun helps to warm the film and adhesive again and fix the edges in place.
What do I do if the delivered film doesn't fit and seems too small?
The film cut is optimized – only when stretched accordingly does the shape fully conform to curves and recesses. This stretching also gives the film the required length. This effect is especially pronounced on the front bumper, the fenders and the hood. Be sure to observe the correct minimum temperature, as it affects stretchability: if it's too cold, the film is harder to stretch and the adhesive bonds more slowly.
How long does installation take?
That depends on the scope of the film set, your experience and your skill. You'll find an approximate installation time on each product in the shop. Simple, small and flat parts are applied faster than, say, a complete bumper. Temperature, the mix of the application fluid and humidity also play a role. Patience always leads to the best result – installation instructions are included with every delivery.
How do I care for the film – can I use the car wash?
Once fully dried (approx. 24–48 hours), you can wash your vehicle as usual – the car wash is no problem either. Remove insects, tar and bird droppings as promptly as possible. A microfiber cloth and pH-neutral car shampoo are ideal. You should avoid aggressive cleaners and high-pressure jets directly on the film edges.
Can I also have the film installed by a professional car wrapper?
Most car wrappers are open to using precision-cut films. If you'd like to hire an installer, please contact a local provider directly.
At what temperature should I fit the film?
Ideally at 20 °C or more, in a dry garage or hall. Outdoors works just as well. Just make sure it is warm enough and there is no wind.
Small, flat parts such as side kits, door handles or sill protectors can be fitted at cooler temperatures without any problem.
And if dust does get under the film: as long as it is not sticking yet, simply rinse it out with slip solution.
What happens if I make a mistake during installation?
As long as the film is still floating on the liquid, you can lift it off and realign it. That is exactly what the installation fluid is for. It only becomes critical once the film has bonded and is damaged in the process.
If you have taken out the installation insurance, we send you a replacement. Without insurance we make you a fair offer for a replacement part. Trying it several times yourself is still far cheaper than going to an installer.
Can I apply the film to a brand new car right away?
Yes. A Tesla leaves the factory fully cured, so there is no waiting time. The only thing that matters is washing the area thoroughly before you start. On a clean surface the paint protection film sits perfectly.
Can I apply the film over an existing scratch or stone chip?
Yes, the film holds over it. It does not make the damage invisible though, it preserves it. Through the transparent film you still see it. For deeper marks it is worth having the paint repaired first.
Does the film interfere with sensors, radar or cameras?
No. The patterns are laid out so that sensor areas and cameras stay clear. The film itself is completely transparent and practically invisible on the car.
Shipping & Returns
How long does shipping take?
Approx. 1–4 days within the EU. Orders are generally shipped on the following business day. However, it can happen that a product is not pre-produced and ready for immediate dispatch – in which case it may take 1–2 days longer.
How much are the shipping costs for my order?
We provide information about shipping costs here.
Can I withdraw from the purchase even after delivery?
All standard products from the shop can be returned within 14 days in accordance with European consumer protection law. The products must be returned undamaged and unused. Please note: custom-made items (e.g. matte films) are excluded from the right of return.
What do I do if a part is missing or arrives damaged?
One note first: the installation tools are inside the cardboard tube. So take a look in there before you write to us.
If something really is missing or a part is damaged, write to us with your order number and a photo, fastest in the live chat or via the form below. We send a replacement without you having to return the damaged part.
Films, Quality & Care
How can the film be removed again?
If you sell your vehicle or need to remove the film for any other reason, it's very easy. Make sure the outside temperature is at least 20 °C (a garage if needed) – the warmer, the better. A hairdryer or heat gun speeds up the process. Peel the film off carefully; it should come off easily. If not, you need more heat. The longer the film has been on the car, the stronger the bond becomes – so we recommend removing it after 5 years at the latest (Standard PPF). Sun exposure affects the aging process of the film, as it does with all exposed parts of your Tesla.
Are the Tesla-Protect paint protection films self-healing?
That depends on the quality you choose: our Standard PPF (vinyl) is not self-healing, but stands out for its excellent value for money. Our High-End TPU PPF, on the other hand, is self-healing – fine scratches disappear on their own with heat (e.g. sun or warm water). You can select the film quality you want directly on the respective product.
Are there also matte/satin paint protection films?
Yes! We currently offer these only on request. If you're interested, send us a message via our contact form – we'll get back to you promptly with a quote. The price is slightly higher than the glossy version. Please note: a partial matte wrap does not look ideal on Tesla's standard colors. The matte film works best when your Tesla is already wrapped in matte or satin. As a custom-made product, these films are excluded from the right of return.
Do you also offer more choices or films for other vehicles?
Yes! In our second shop ppf-kits.eu you'll find an even larger selection of film qualities and precision-cut kits – for other vehicles too. Feel free to take a look.
Does the film turn yellow over time?
Every film eventually loses its best properties and can turn yellow. Within the stated service life that normally does not happen. How quickly it happens depends a lot on your situation.
Is the car parked on the street all the time or in a garage? How often and how do you wash it, by hand or in a car wash? And how cleanly was it applied?
In practice other things usually show up first, for example an edge starting to lift.
How do I store the film if I do not fit it right away?
Rolled up in our shipping packaging, dry and at room temperature. Do not wait too long though.
How can we help?
Live chat is the fastest way to reach us. If you prefer to write, use the form below. We usually reply within 24 hours.