Looking for Advice - Sloppy PPF Install/Damage

[19GT350R]

I’ve been going back and forth for a couple months now with a particular shop in the greater Houston area regarding my Heritage GT500 CFTP.

I had a slight hesitation using a new-to-me shop after expressing an issue with another shop that had cut into the paint on my GT350R but was assured that they would definitely not allow that to happen as they are very meticulous.
Well…not only did they cut into the rear bumper past the paint, but my car wasn’t even cleaned thoroughly evidenced by trapped debris and gravel by the rockers and front grille area.
There are numerous areas around the car where the PPF isn’t aligned properly (especially around the wing uprights), a spot on the hood where there’s a small collection of razor blade cuts that won’t self-heal under heat or sunlight, and in general, just badly cut edges throughout. Lastly, they never installed the PPF over the A-pillars which is not a big deal at this point as it can be easily added however, I don’t feel comfortable bringing it back to them to ‘fix’. The owner tells me that they can’t refund the labor but willing to credit the material provided I bring it back to them for removal.
I’ve wasted too much of my personal time already on the back and forth between visits, leaving it at a body shop, the phone calls, and now, the owner refusing to reply to my calls and messages.
I don’t think it would be worth going legal but has anyone else experienced something like this and what was the resolution?
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to read and provide input.

Sponsored

 

[Inthehighdesert]

You need to ask and document if they used patterns for the install or if they hand cut the installation. Even if you know the answer get it documented. If they state patterns, ask what company they’re using. If they’re an Xpel shop they should have access to the patterns, assuming they have a plotter. The first thing is hopefully you didn’t pay with a check or cash. If you used a cc, you can dispute it. You probably know that but I threw out the obvious. Now to the cut marks. With one single blade mark I‘d have pulled the car and they’d be done. If there’s some on your bumper there’s for sure others. You can claim that damage on your auto policy. Your insurance company can decide if they want to go after them. They should have a garage keepers policy that can be gone after for damage as well. Blade marks can be very difficult to repair properly. I had a body shop for a long time. One of my closest friends does ppf(Xpel). He has a brand new 911 in his shop currently that ppf was installed before delivery(out of state purchase). There’s blade marks all over the car and they’re currently dealing with what you are. His car will end up with a complete repaint. I feel for him and you, I’d be fit to be tied.

PS. Bad reviews with pics for that type of shop is the kiss of death to. Just depends on what your stomach is for that type of approach as well. Hope it works out.

 

[kilobravo]

What Charlie said and in my limited experience with three vehicles PPF'd is that patterns are the ONLY way to go. Cutting is fine for wraps but IMHO, NOT for PPF. I'd stick with an Xpel shop if it were me.

That said, I'm done with film as the edges get FUBAR'd in a couple years and those edges will never stick again no matter what you try..been there, done that, even have the video. The other two things about film that bug me are the gloss and the hard hit dings that tear the film. Granted the film today is to some extent "self healing" but it's not perfect except for the tiniest of dings and then you get to see and feel those tears for as long as you have the vehicle.

With regard to film gloss, it just doesn't look like "paint gloss" and my eyes can pick out a filmed car from thirty paces. Just not for me.

Anyway J, I so hope you get this resolved to your satisfaction.

 

[Kobi Addiction]

I'm very curious to know which Houston shop performed this subpar install. This is unfortunate and hopefully you're able to remedy the damage. OP, If you don't mind messaging me, I'd appreciate it.

 

[cerbomark]

get an estimate for the damage, document that with pictures and present it to the business for submission to their insurance. If they refuse, then all that information you already have documented can be used for a BBB complaint. I wouldn't let them touch anything. also if paid with credit card you can have that payment pulled back with a dispute with them. Document once then carpet bomb them with all three above if nessassary.
In the mean time leave it all alone and drive the car.

 

[rp930]

This is painful to even read about. Good luck.

 

[19GT350R]

I'm very curious to know which Houston shop performed this subpar install. This is unfortunate and hopefully you're able to remedy the damage. OP, If you don't mind messaging me, I'd appreciate it.

Messaging you now.

Sponsored