Paint Protection Film
ClearPlex Windshield Protection Film: 2026 Guide
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·6 min read
Summary / Direct Answer
ClearPlex is an optically-clear windshield protection film costing $300-600. It prevents rock chips, reduces glare, and carries a 3-year warranty. Best for highway commuters, new vehicles, and luxury cars.
ClearPlex protects your windshield from rock chips & cracks. Cost $300-600, optically clear, 3-year warranty. Is it worth it? Complete guide + installation info.
What is ClearPlex Windshield Protection Film?
ClearPlex is an optically-clear polyurethane film applied to your windshield to protect against rock chips, scratches, and cracks. Unlike body PPF, ClearPlex is specifically engineered for optical clarity—you won't see it, but it'll stop damage.
Think of it as PPF for your windshield.
How ClearPlex Works
The film absorbs impact energy from road debris:
| Impact Type | Without ClearPlex | With ClearPlex |
|---|---|---|
| Small rock chip | Chip in glass | Film absorbs, glass protected |
| Larger stone | Crack spreads | Contained, glass may survive |
| Road debris | Scratch or pit | Film scratches, replace film |
When the film gets damaged, you replace it—not the $500-$2,000 windshield underneath.
ClearPlex Benefits
1. Rock Chip Prevention
ClearPlex's polyurethane layer absorbs impact from:
- Gravel and road debris
- Kicked-up stones
- Sand and small particles
- Bug impacts (no more pitting)
2. Reduced Glare
Optical coatings reduce oncoming headlight glare and sun reflection. Many drivers report improved nighttime visibility.
3. Easier Cleaning
The hydrophobic surface sheds water and repels:
- Rain (better wiper performance)
- Bugs (easier removal)
- Tree sap and pollen
- Winter road spray
4. Financial Protection
| Scenario | Cost Without ClearPlex | Cost With ClearPlex |
|---|---|---|
| Standard windshield replacement | $300–$600 | $0 (replace film: $300-600) |
| ADAS-equipped windshield | $800–$2,000+ | $0 (replace film: $300-600) |
| Premium/luxury windshield | $1,000–$3,000+ | $0 (replace film: $300-600) |
Modern vehicles with ADAS (rain sensors, lane departure cameras, heads-up displays) have expensive specialty windshields. ClearPlex protection becomes more cost-effective the more expensive your glass.
ClearPlex Cost
What Does ClearPlex Cost?
| Vehicle Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sedan | $300–$400 | Basic windshield |
| SUV/Truck | $400–$500 | Larger windshield |
| Luxury/Exotic | $450–$600 | Precision fit required |
| ADAS-equipped | $400–$550 | Sensor area consideration |
Pricing factors:
- Windshield size and curvature
- Sensor clusters and camera placement
- Film quality tier selected
- Installer expertise
ClearPlex vs Windshield Replacement Math
Highway commuter scenario (20,000 miles/year):
| Item | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Without ClearPlex | $1,200 (1 chip repair + 1 replacement) | $400 (repair) | $1,200 (replacement) | $2,800 |
| With ClearPlex | $400 (initial install) | $400 (replace film) | $0 | $800 |
ClearPlex can save you $2,000+ over 3 years for high-mileage highway driving.
ClearPlex Installation
What to Expect
Installation time: 1–2 hours
Process:
- Full windshield cleaning and decontamination
- Defect inspection (existing chips must be repaired first)
- Precise pattern cutting for your windshield shape
- Slip solution application
- Film placement and centering
- Squeegee work to remove air/water
- Edge sealing and final inspection
Installation Requirements
Before your appointment:
- Existing chips/cracks must be repaired
- Windshield must be clean (we'll re-clean it)
- No wiper replacements planned (do before)
After installation:
- Wait 24-48 hours before washing
- Avoid car washes for 1 week
- Normal driving immediately OK
ClearPlex vs Competitors
ClearPlex vs ExoShield
| Feature | ClearPlex | ExoShield |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 4 mil | 3 or 6 mil options |
| Clarity | Excellent | Excellent |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Availability | Wide | Growing |
| Price | $$ | $$-$$$ |
Both are excellent products. We install ClearPlex due to consistent availability and proven track record.
ClearPlex vs Rain-X/Ceramic Coatings
| Feature | ClearPlex | Windshield Coating |
|---|---|---|
| Rock chip protection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Hydrophobic effect | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Scratch protection | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Minimal |
| Lifespan | 3+ years | 6-12 months |
Coatings add water beading but won't stop a rock chip. ClearPlex provides actual impact protection.
Is ClearPlex Worth It?
Best Candidates for ClearPlex
✅ ClearPlex is worth it if:
- You drive highway miles regularly (I-101, 85, 17)
- Your vehicle has ADAS/sensors in the windshield
- Windshield replacement costs $800+
- You're keeping the vehicle 3+ years
- You've had rock chip damage before
When to Skip It
⚠️ Consider skipping if:
- Primarily city/low-speed driving
- Standard glass (no sensors)
- Older vehicle (simple windshield)
- Leasing short-term
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ClearPlex affect visibility?
No. ClearPlex is optically clear and designed to meet or exceed OEM glass clarity standards. Most drivers forget it's there. It actually reduces glare in many cases.
Will ClearPlex interfere with ADAS sensors or rain sensors?
Properly installed ClearPlex does not interfere with ADAS cameras, rain sensors, or heads-up displays. Professional installers cut patterns that work around sensor locations.
How long does ClearPlex last?
ClearPlex carries a 3-year warranty and typically lasts 3-5 years depending on driving conditions. Highway commuters in rock-prone areas may replace sooner.
Can ClearPlex be removed easily?
Yes. Unlike window tint adhesive, ClearPlex removes cleanly without residue. Removal takes about 30 minutes and leaves no damage to the glass.
What happens if my windshield gets a rock chip with ClearPlex installed?
If a rock is large/fast enough to damage the film, the film absorbs most of the energy. Usually, the film takes the damage while the glass stays intact. In severe cases, the glass may still chip, but damage is typically less extensive.
Does ClearPlex affect windshield wipers?
No. ClearPlex has a smooth surface that wipers glide across normally. The hydrophobic properties may actually improve wiper performance in rain.
Get ClearPlex Installed in Gilroy
We install ClearPlex and windshield protection film—15 min from Morgan Hill, 35 min from San Jose.
| Vehicle Type | ClearPlex Price |
|---|---|
| Sedan | $300–$400 |
| SUV/Truck | $400–$500 |
| Luxury/ADAS | $450–$600 |
Learn more: Paint Protection Film Services
Get a Free Quote → or call 408-848-8468
Sources & References
{/* VERIFIED: Product information from ClearPlex and industry standards, January 2026 */}
Product Information:
- ClearPlex by Madico — Official manufacturer
- OEM windshield costs based on Bay Area dealer quotes
Last Verified: January 24, 2026
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