Clear Bra Films FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Clear Bra Film

Can I install a clear bra kit myself?

Will a clear bra harm the paint when it is removed

Can you paint or apply a clearcoat over a clear bra film or headlight overlay?

Can I cover the whole vehicle with clear bra film?

Can a clear bra film be applied over graphics?

Does a clear bra film stick to bumpers and hoods?

Does a clear bra film stick to plastic?

Does a clear bra film resist yellowing?

Can I use wax over the clear bra film?

How is a clear bra film maintained?

Can a clear bra or headlight overlay film be removed?

If a clear bra film is removed from the vehicle, can it be re-used?

Will it really stop rocks from chipping the car?

Are colored films legal on headlights for street use?

How long does it take to install a full kit?

I don’t like to see the line on the hood, can you cover the entire hood?

I have an aftermarket bumper, can a clear bra be applied over it?

Will there be a two-tone effect if the film is ever removed?

Is the application of the film permanent?

I just had my bumper repainted. How long do I have to wait prior to film installation?

Can I install a clear bra kit myself?

In short, absolutely. However, that is IF you are comfortable working with your hands, have a dust free environment, have a heat gun (a hair dryer is NOT hot enough), and know how to stretch the film over the curves of your vehicle. As with any manual project, if one person can do it, another person can also do it. However, just know that amatuer jobs will likely look amatuer and professional jobs will look... well, invisible. Professional clear bra installers have the experience and know how to stretch the film the right way to fit your vehicle body panels so the film is barely noticeable. If you're still interested in doing your own install - visit our clear bra kit shop at clearbrashop.com.

Will a clear bra harm the paint when it is removed?

If the film is properly applied to a fully cured painted vehicle, it can be removed without damaging paint surfaces beneath the film. Warning: If a clear bra film is applied before the paint has properly cured, there is a risk of the paint being peeled off when the film is removed

Can you paint or apply a clearcoat over a clear bra film or headlight overlay?

No, this is not recommended and is at your own risk.

Can I cover the whole vehicle with clear bra film?

Yes. Ask your local installer for pricing

Can a clear bra film be applied over graphics?

Yes, clear bra films can be applied over vinyl graphics however, if the film is removed, damage may occur to the underlying graphic during the removal process.

Does a clear bra film stick to bumpers and hoods?

Yes

Does a clear bra film stick to plastic?

Yes - but only to smooth surfaces.

Does a clear bra film resist yellowing?

Yellowing can occur due to UV rays affecting the material or by little dust particles getting stuck in the porous clear bra material. You can lessen the chances of your clear bra film and headlight overlays from yellowing by waxing the material whenever you wax your vehicle.

Can I use wax over the clear bra film?

Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft brush such as a toothbrush or detailer brush.
• Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes.
• Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used.
• One way to minimize the wax buildup is to use spray wax around the film edges.

How is a clear bra or headlight overlay film maintained?

Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 48 hours. We suggest you keep the vehicle in the sun to help cure and dry the protective film. Washing after that time presents no problem, but be careful if using a pressure washer along leading edges of film.

Can a clear bra or headlight overlay film be removed?

Yes. The film is designed as a semi-permanent application, but can easily be removed if desired from any OEM painted surface. For removal of the film, simply heat the surface to approximately 150°F and begin by working a corner of the film with your fingernail. After you have enough film to hold onto, pull the film slowly away from the surface. If any adhesive remains, simply use any adhesive cleaner or 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner (3M Part #08984) and wipe clean with a soft cloth. If any sections are known to have been repainted, extreme caution should be taken on those areas during removal as there is a slight risk of the paint being lifted.

If a clear bra film is removed from the vehicle, can it be re-used?

No. Once the film has been applied and set, the adhesive will not stick a second time.

Will it really stop rocks from chipping the car?

Yes. The material was originally designed to stop chips on helicopter rotor blades and airplane propellers. It is much easier for the product to protect your vehicle's paint than a rotor of a helicopter.

Are colored films legal on headlights for street use?

Colored films may not be legal for street use on primary lighting. Please check your state or local laws before application or ask your local clear bra shop.

How long does it take to install a full kit?

It really depends on your local shop, please submit your vehicle for a quote so an installer can contact you with prices and installation times.

I have an aftermarket bumper, can a clear bra be applied over it?

Yes, your installer may charge more due to a custom fit film.

Will there be a two-tone effect if the film is ever removed?

As long as the uncovered portions of the paint were regularly wash and waxed, then there would be no indication that film was ever installed if it were to be removed.

Is the application of the film permanent?

No, the film can be removed at anytime. We suggest keeping your clear bra waxed and supple. We also suggest getting your clear bra replaced every few years depending on the condition of the film.

I just had my bumper repainted. How long do I have to wait prior to film installation?

Recommended cure time would be 30 days.