Protective film near rear wheel

Mine had become the same way and I removed them and have not replaced them yet. I have a long bed and also removed the black edge protector. I'm just about ready to put 3M tape on them and reinstall. Not sure if I want to replace the clear film.

 

Did you just rip it off or used another method? Does it leave any residue?

Mine have dirt/mildew underneath. I am worried it might take some paint off if just rip it off. Also looking for replacements.

 

I peeled them off using a plastic razor blade. Have to go slow to avoid damaging the paint but it wasn't difficult. Then I used this to remove the glue residue.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSFD50H?ie=UTF8

 

yep. got weird red dots and the entire film is yellow