WOW! 3M clear bra damage pics

ctyankee · 12-03-2006, 10:04 PM

Contacted a guy I know who works for 3M. Here are some pics of damage to a BMW with the clear bra. He says, "As you had thought, you will notice the film, especially on dark colored cars. Additionally, you may notice areas where the film had to be stretched by the installer. However, you'll be hard pressed to notice the film exists on your vehicle, outside of an 8' radius. I have it on my black Grand Prix and it is very difficult to notice until I'm up close on the vehicle. As a matter of fact, I believe the Sky comes with a version of our film on the rear deck (the Solstice uses it). Many manufacturers put pieces of our film on thier cars. Most people don't even notice it. "

Kind of makes me want to get it. Although he did say it depends on what type of driving one does. Not my primary drive, but I did already replace the silver badge stip on the grill that got a chunk removed by a rock.

Blue Sky · 12-03-2006, 10:08 PM

I'm sold!!!
Blue

**James L. Lee** · 12-03-2006, 10:19 PM

I have the 3M protection system on my BMW sports car - Silver with red/black interior. The 3M film is a bra, on the door edges, under the door handles to prevent scratches from finger nails when opening the doors, on the lower rear quarter panels, the rear deck, etc. The film has saved the car from a number of road rock chips and most importantly from the dang love bugs here in Florida!

I have ordered a completed car kit of 3M protection for my Sky R/L to protect it...

MidniteBlues · 12-03-2006, 11:02 PM

Well that’s why I have it also, now application IS critical, and my guy will have to re-do the bumper because of bubbles that have NOT yet gone away(maybe). However, I wanted to give my installer the benefit of the doubt, if after 60 days, bubbles still there, he'll re-do/replace the bumper film portion. Which BTW is the hardest part to do on our sky's--

He told me a story of a guy actually hitting a concrete block on the road, the 3M of course was damaged, but according to him, the car was NOT damaged, he had to replace the 3M--Do I believe his story? well the pictures above might prove him to be accurate--I hope I never need to find out--The other "rumor" I have heard is that "after time the paint UNDER the 3M will not change or fade as other portions of the car will--In other words, the paint under the 3M will shine, while the rest of the car NOT protected will fade--That does bother me--What would you do? to protect impact areas or not?

richmcc · 12-03-2006, 11:19 PM

I am certain that having a 2m Bra has already saved me from dollars and damages. The first couple of time parking my car I hit the parking blocks but the 3m bra saved me. Also, on the way back from Vegas the wind was pretty bad and the front of the my car was attacked by a sage brush. I am sure that there would of been some serious scratches if I did not get my clear bra

marlboromike · 12-03-2006, 11:31 PM

Remember, it is almost invisible on light colors...it is the dark colors where visibility is more apparent...but u most weigh choices...a line or damage to your paint...I know it was a no brainer for me.

By the way, 3M gives a 5 year warranty

Sabre · 12-03-2006, 11:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by richmcc

Also, on the way back from Vegas the wind was pretty bad and the front of the my cat was attacked by a sage brush.

I hope your cat is okay.

I definitely plan on either the 3m or Laminex films.

ctyankee · 12-04-2006, 09:14 AM

Sounds like most people are in favor of it and recommend it. My two concerns are: What does it cost? and Will the paint fade over time differently under the protected parts? That's what I've wondered when you see people driving around with those hideous black bras.

sky dog · 12-04-2006, 09:28 AM

Never have seen the need for it

SKYGAZR · 12-04-2006, 09:32 AM

$10 bucks on ebay...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Satur...59283312QQrdZ1

Not sure how good it is compared to 3M, but seems awful cheap!

MidniteBlues · 12-04-2006, 09:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ctyankee

Sounds like most people are in favor of it and recommend it. My two concerns are: What does it cost? and Will the paint fade over time differently under the protected parts? That's what I've wondered when you see people driving around with those hideous black bras.

My costs? was $600.00 installed, covered everything availiable, hood, bumper, mirrors and all 3 lights. As for the paint fading, I heard the same thing, only time will really tell, especially with my dark color and the Florida heat-But, I think I rather take the chance of some fading (which might not happen if I keep her polished & sealed) than not. If I didn't put any type of protection on it, the front would look like popcorn in 1 year. So either or, protecting the front took priority over the front end getting chipped to death & the likely chance of paint fading some.-

BTW, the black bra is currently not made or availiable for our Sky's, and those things can & will damage the car as it flaps in the wind-

ctyankee · 12-04-2006, 09:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MidniteBlues

BTW, the black bra is currently not made or availiable for our Sky's, and those things can & will damage the car as it flaps in the wind-

Good! Those damn black, leathery-looking things are about as ugly as an 80 year old ladies . . .

3window35 · 12-04-2006, 10:39 PM

I went to the local installer and they quoted $1200.00

I think that would be too high for me. They will not sell me the BRA as the installer has to be trained by 3M.

SkyHighinTX · 12-05-2006, 02:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 3window35

I went to the local installer and they quoted $1200.00

I think that would be too high for me. They will not sell me the BRA as the installer has to be trained by 3M.

When they teach people to install these 3M products, do you think they use a "training bra"?

3window35 · 12-05-2006, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SkyHighinTX

When they teach people to install these 3M products, do you think they use a "training bra"?

For that price they should!!

SunburstSky · 12-05-2006, 01:28 PM

I'm glad I invested. It has saved me a few times (front bumper). I shopped it to death before I finally found a qualified & fair installer I had quotes from $400-1200 (make sure you see a finished product on someone else car) I have the hood, front bumper, rear bumper, mirrors, strip under doors and all the front lights for $700. I didnt like the look of the splash guards so its easy clean up for the area behind the wheels. Good luck.

3window35 · 12-05-2006, 02:38 PM

I was told there was only 1 installer

in the Kansas City Mo area. I went to a couple of local repair centers and they do not do it. I might try the ebay stuff

. I see myself making a big mess with it (bubbles, creases, and

)

MBVette · 12-05-2006, 04:12 PM

there are companies other than 3M that make these. I use a guy that actually had a film that is slightly thinker than the 3M and he is amazing at installing them. Honestly after seeing him do the work there is no way I would ever attempt it.

ctyankee · 12-05-2006, 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SkyHighinTX

When they teach people to install these 3M products, do you think they use a "training bra"?

OMG LMAO

**Texas Red Line** · 12-05-2006, 06:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SkyHighinTX

When they teach people to install these 3M products, do you think they use a "training bra"?

Good one Skyhighintx

ishot3bucks · 12-07-2006, 10:31 AM

Quote:

12-03-2006, 10:04 PM	#1 (permalink)
ctyankee First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Southern Maryland Posts: 884 My Photos: (0)	WOW! 3M clear bra damage pics Contacted a guy I know who works for 3M. Here are some pics of damage to a BMW with the clear bra. He says, "As you had thought, you will notice the film, especially on dark colored cars. Additionally, you may notice areas where the film had to be stretched by the installer. However, you'll be hard pressed to notice the film exists on your vehicle, outside of an 8' radius. I have it on my black Grand Prix and it is very difficult to notice until I'm up close on the vehicle. As a matter of fact, I believe the Sky comes with a version of our film on the rear deck (the Solstice uses it). Many manufacturers put pieces of our film on thier cars. Most people don't even notice it. " Kind of makes me want to get it. Although he did say it depends on what type of driving one does. Not my primary drive, but I did already replace the silver badge stip on the grill that got a chunk removed by a rock. Attached Thumbnails __________________ Forest Green Snagged August 23, 2006 Spoiler LSD Manual Black leather and top Chrome wheels 6-disc Monsoon

12-03-2006, 10:08 PM	#2 (permalink)
Blue Sky First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Philadelphia, PA Posts: 744 My Photos: (10)	I'm sold!!! Blue __________________ BLUE SKY

12-03-2006, 10:19 PM	#3 (permalink)
James L. Lee Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Sarasota, FL Posts: 235 My Photos: (0)	I have the 3M protection system on my BMW sports car - Silver with red/black interior. The 3M film is a bra, on the door edges, under the door handles to prevent scratches from finger nails when opening the doors, on the lower rear quarter panels, the rear deck, etc. The film has saved the car from a number of road rock chips and most importantly from the dang love bugs here in Florida! I have ordered a completed car kit of 3M protection for my Sky R/L to protect it... __________________ Jim Red Line Manual Chrome Alloy Wheels Color: Bluestone Black Premium Leather CD/Ipod Monsoon 2002 BMW Z8 - Silver Pearl-red/black interior 2008 Toyota Sienna Limited with Bruan Handicap upgrade for wife in wheelchair Last edited by James L. Lee : 12-03-2006 at 10:34 PM.

12-03-2006, 11:02 PM	#4 (permalink)
MidniteBlues Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Florida Posts: 3,549 My Photos: (0)	Well that’s why I have it also, now application IS critical, and my guy will have to re-do the bumper because of bubbles that have NOT yet gone away(maybe). However, I wanted to give my installer the benefit of the doubt, if after 60 days, bubbles still there, he'll re-do/replace the bumper film portion. Which BTW is the hardest part to do on our sky's-- He told me a story of a guy actually hitting a concrete block on the road, the 3M of course was damaged, but according to him, the car was NOT damaged, he had to replace the 3M--Do I believe his story? well the pictures above might prove him to be accurate--I hope I never need to find out--The other "rumor" I have heard is that "after time the paint UNDER the 3M will not change or fade as other portions of the car will--In other words, the paint under the 3M will shine, while the rest of the car NOT protected will fade--That does bother me--What would you do? to protect impact areas or not? __________________ 2.4L Midnight Blue, Premium Trim Package, Automatic, Monsoon Pre Audio 1-CD, Std Rear. GMPP CAI, 3M Clear Bra, Splash Guards, Black Top, Fiam Frwy Blastr 2-horn Opel Ant - WR V2 Last edited by MidniteBlues : 12-03-2006 at 11:05 PM.

12-03-2006, 11:19 PM	#5 (permalink)
richmcc First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Woodland Hills, CA Posts: 1,655 My Photos: (13)	I am certain that having a 2m Bra has already saved me from dollars and damages. The first couple of time parking my car I hit the parking blocks but the 3m bra saved me. Also, on the way back from Vegas the wind was pretty bad and the front of the my car was attacked by a sage brush. I am sure that there would of been some serious scratches if I did not get my clear bra __________________ I'll take a BlueStone Sky, Redline please, Stitched not Smooth! *MACH SKY* RL Auto(Stomp 'n Go),Tan/Tan 6 CD,XM,Chrome Dep. 3/11/2006 1100 6/7/2006 #KFPZ7Q BlueStone 6/27/06 3800 10/18/06 VIN #115455 6000 11/03/06 Delivered! Home 11/05/06 Last edited by richmcc : 12-04-2006 at 04:28 AM.

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12-03-2006, 11:31 PM	#6 (permalink)
marlboromike First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Marlboro, NJ Posts: 7,068 My Photos: (6)	Remember, it is almost invisible on light colors...it is the dark colors where visibility is more apparent...but u most weigh choices...a line or damage to your paint...I know it was a no brainer for me. By the way, 3M gives a 5 year warranty Last edited by marlboromike : 12-03-2006 at 11:50 PM.

12-04-2006, 09:14 AM	#8 (permalink)
ctyankee First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Southern Maryland Posts: 884 My Photos: (0)	Sounds like most people are in favor of it and recommend it. My two concerns are: What does it cost? and Will the paint fade over time differently under the protected parts? That's what I've wondered when you see people driving around with those hideous black bras. __________________ Forest Green Snagged August 23, 2006 Spoiler LSD Manual Black leather and top Chrome wheels 6-disc Monsoon

12-04-2006, 09:28 AM	#9 (permalink)
sky dog Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 30 My Photos: (0)	Never have seen the need for it

12-04-2006, 09:32 AM	#10 (permalink)
SKYGAZR First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Moncton, N.B. CANADA Posts: 444 My Photos: (11)	$10 bucks on ebay... http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Satur...59283312QQrdZ1 Not sure how good it is compared to 3M, but seems awful cheap! __________________ SKYGAZR SKY REDLINE LOADED AUTO. CHILI PEPPER RED WITH COBALT RED LEATHER AND CHROME WHEELS. 2007 CORVETTE Z06 6 SPEED MANUAL LOADED VELOCITY YELLOW 505HP SOLD: Sky RL Chili Pepper Red 5 SPD MANUAL SOLD :Sky Chili Pepper Red 2.4L Loaded!

12-04-2006, 10:39 PM	#13 (permalink)
3window35 Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 66 My Photos: (3)	I went to the local installer and they quoted $1200.00 I think that would be too high for me. They will not sell me the BRA as the installer has to be trained by 3M.

12-05-2006, 01:28 PM	#16 (permalink)
SunburstSky First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Southern California Posts: 183 My Photos: (0)	I'm glad I invested. It has saved me a few times (front bumper). I shopped it to death before I finally found a *qualified & fair installer* I had quotes from $400-1200 (make sure you see a finished product on someone else car) I have the hood, front bumper, rear bumper, mirrors, strip under doors and all the front lights for $700. I didnt like the look of the splash guards so its easy clean up for the area behind the wheels. Good luck. __________________ Sunburst Yellow The Dream Continues ...

12-05-2006, 02:38 PM	#17 (permalink)
3window35 Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 66 My Photos: (3)	I was told there was only 1 installer in the Kansas City Mo area. I went to a couple of local repair centers and they do not do it. I might try the ebay stuff . I see myself making a big mess with it (bubbles, creases, and )

12-05-2006, 04:12 PM	#18 (permalink)
MBVette Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Richmond, VA Posts: 426 My Photos: (0)	there are companies other than 3M that make these. I use a guy that actually had a film that is slightly thinker than the 3M and he is amazing at installing them. Honestly after seeing him do the work there is no way I would ever attempt it. __________________ Triple Black Redline bought back as a lemon...

12-07-2006, 10:31 AM	#21 (permalink)
ishot3bucks First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Clinton Township, MI Posts: 437 My Photos: (13)	Quote: