INVISIBLE CAR BRA
What is a “car bra”?
A Vinyl Car Bra Doesn't look very nice!
For those who are unaware of the term, it is the name given to a special covering that is (usually) custom made, to protect the front nose area of a car. Namely bumper, bonnet and headlights. They are commonly made of vinyl, and are sewn together to form the complex shape, that vary from model to model.
The idea behind them is to protect the paint work, and headlight lenses from damage by loose, flying debris such as stones and gravel. The idea is a good one, but there are two major drawbacks.
They often look ugly, due to the way they were made/fitted. They are an eyesore even if they were well sewn/fitted. They are usually black, adding to their (not so nice) appearance. Granted, this is personal perspective, but I am not alone in that.
Depending on some variables, such as time on the car, the condition of the roads driven on, fitting etc, they can cause as much (and often, more) damage than what they were meant to prevent. This is due to grit and other foreign materials lodging under tight areas, and rubbing through. Constant movement due to vibration, wind etc.
Some people love them. It certainly was more popular several years ago than now. (Based on my observation, IE have not seen any in the last five or more years. Maybe they (users) have realised the above, and discontinued using them.
Anyway, there is an alternative. As is usual, there is more than one way to solve such problems. One such alternative, though not the one I will detail shortly, is to use purpose made acrylic shields or covers. They are commonly, stone deflectors that get “clipped” on to the (front) edge of the bonnet. These, deflect the stones up, and away from the bonnet paint and “protect” it from chips. Similarly, moulded covers clip onto headlights and act as a shield for their protection.
The down side to these is that they can break or crack. This can cause scratching the very paint they are meant to protect. Also, they collect debris, such as dust, leaves, bark, insects etc. In time, if not cleaned regularly, it can “stain” the paintwork. In some cases, irreparably.
The alternative of which I speak now is, the “invisible” car bra.
What is it?
It is a soft, pliable plastic film, that is clear, so it does not have to match any paint colour. It has an (removable) adhesive on the one side, to stick to the surface. It is custom fitted to (most) any car bonnet. A similar product is also specially designed for headlights. It has to be professionally applied, due to the nature and process involved. Once it is applied, it is “permanently” on and protecting the paintwork. It is, for all intents and purposes, invisible, viewed from a few steps back. If at any time it needs to be removed, it can be, with no damage to the paintwork.
Like all things, there is a downside. It is not advisable to be applied to any and all circumstances. In particular, black and very dark surfaces.
It is pliable to a great extent, but due to the very complex curved surfaces on many cars, may not “go on” successfully. It can be done in peices, but this leads to a “not so professional” look.
There are several brands available. Some (which shall remain nameless) will in fact deteriorate very quickly. I had an experience where it went “yellow”, and lost its shine in just over 6 months. needless to say, I no longer use these “cheap” brands. Ones like 3M, though more expensive, give excellent results and performance.
Another helpful tip is to insure that the exposed paintwork, is fully protected from UV, using a good quality paint protector or regularly polishing same. This will reduce, or eliminate fading of the colour, so if at anytime the “car bra” is removed, there (should) be no difference.
If you live in my area, and wish to know more, or want the product on your car, go to my website contact details and do so.
