Choosing an installer¶

How to pick an installer for PPF, window tint, ceramic coating and other work, and what to do if something goes wrong. We don't list or endorse businesses.

What to look for¶

Experience¶

• Knows where the cameras and sensors are, and is careful around them
• Experienced with trim removal on modern cars
• Can show previous work on similar cars, in person or in photos
• Trained or certified by the maker of the film or coating they use

The workshop¶

• A clean, enclosed, dust-free installation bay
• Proper equipment, including a plotter for pre-cut film patterns
• Separate areas for washing, paint correction and film work

Be wary of outdoor installs or a dirty, cluttered workshop.

Warranty¶

Ask for two warranties in writing: the product warranty from the film or coating maker, and the installer's own workmanship warranty. Get the duration and what's excluded.

Pricing¶

Good signs: a detailed written quote, a clear scope, a choice of packages and no pressure.

Warning signs: a quote far below everyone else, vague pricing, "today only" deals, reluctance to name the exact product, or no written quote.

Questions to ask before booking¶

Product

1. Which exact product will you use (brand and product line, not just brand)?
2. What warranty comes with it, and who honours it?
3. Why do you recommend it for my car?

Installation

1. Is the film pre-cut from a pattern or cut by hand on the car?
2. How long will the car be with you?
3. Will you check the paint, and correct it if needed, before PPF or coating?
4. Exactly which areas does the package cover? Ask for a diagram.

Experience

1. Have you worked on a Zeekr, or similar EVs?
2. Can I see examples of your work?
3. Are you certified by the product's maker?

Logistics

1. What happens if I'm not happy with the result?
2. What should I do to prepare the car?
3. Can I inspect the work with you before I pay?

Finding installers¶

• Search for installers certified by the product maker you want; most film makers have an installer locator on their website
• Read reviews with detailed descriptions and photos, and look at how the business responds to complaints
• Ask other owners in the community channels

Be wary of reviews that are all five stars or all one star, generic reviews, and businesses with no recent reviews.

Warning signs¶

At the consultation: pressure to book now, no examples of past work, vague answers, no look at the workshop, no written quote.

After the job: dust, hair or bubbles under film, creases, lifting edges, tint defects, or an installer who is hard to reach about warranty problems.

If something goes wrong¶

1. Photograph the problem from several angles, with close-ups.
2. Contact the installer promptly, in writing, with the photos, and ask for an inspection.
3. Give them a fair chance to fix it. Rework is normal.
4. If they won't fix it, contact the product maker, then your state's fair trading or consumer affairs office. The ACCC explains your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

Share your experience¶

Used an installer, good or bad? Share the business, location, work done, product used and how it went in our community channels. Stick to facts, and update your post if things change.