Clear Protective Hood Wraps

Has anyone had experience with clear vinyl protective wraps, specifically for the hood and roof? I had paint fade on my 1st gen and I want to be proactive with my 3rd gen given the fact Tacoma paint/clearcoat is not the best. I live in the south, no garage. Thanks!

 

Absolutely! Clear protective wraps, especially high-quality paint protection film, are a solid investment if your Tacoma is going to spend its life outside in the southern sun. Hood and roof wraps are two of the most commonly requested areas, because they take the most UV and heat abuse. PPF doesn’t just guard against rock chips, it also helps protect against oxidation and fading caused by constant sun exposure. The key is to go with a film that has UV inhibitors built in, and make sure it’s installed cleanly to avoid lift at the edges. If you’re not ready to do a full front-end wrap, starting with just the hood and roof still gives you major coverage where it matters.

 

Wholly disagree. Just seal your truck regularly and maintain that (spray detailer after each wash) then re-paint it in time if you need. Hood respray from someone reputable is $500. That is comparable with a PPF (~$350).

PPF worn for years can often mess paint up. Then you’ve spent money trying to protect it and you’re paying for the respray.

Prior to like 2012 the Toyota paint process was different (believe 2 stage). Your current paint is a lot better.

PPF to avoid UV doesn’t make sense. It’s for rocks. Many better solutions if your concern is primarily UV.