Paint Protection Film
XPEL PPF: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Danny Rubio· Owner & Head Technician
·4 min read
Complete guide to XPEL paint protection film. Learn about XPEL products, pricing, and our expert installation services for your vehicle in the Bay Area.
If you're researching paint protection film, you've probably come across XPEL. They're one of the most recognized names in PPF, and for good reason. But is XPEL the right choice for you? Here's what you need to know.
What is XPEL?
XPEL is a Texas-based company that's been making paint protection films since the 1990s. They're known for:
- ULTIMATE PLUS – Their flagship clear PPF with self-healing properties
- Stealth – Matte finish PPF for satin looks
- Fusion Plus – Ceramic coating products
XPEL has built a strong reputation through aggressive marketing, a good warranty program, and a network of certified installers across the country.
Why XPEL is Popular
There's no denying XPEL makes quality products. Their films offer:
- Excellent clarity and optical properties
- Self-healing capability with heat
- Strong manufacturer warranty
- Pattern cutting software (DAP) used industry-wide
If you've been quoted for XPEL, you're considering a legitimate premium product.
What We Offer Instead
Here's the honest truth: We don't carry XPEL products at our shop.
After 30+ years in the window tinting and protection industry, we've carefully selected the brands we work with. Our PPF brands are:
SunTek (Our Primary Brand)
- Ultra – Premium self-healing gloss PPF
- Reaction – Hydrophobic finish with enhanced water beading
- Comparable performance to XPEL at better value
- We keep these films in stock for faster turnaround
STEK
- DYNOshield – High-performance self-healing film
- Built-in hydrophobic coating
3M Pro Series
- Trusted 3M quality
- Great for budget-conscious buyers
LLumar PPF
- Excellent nationwide warranty support
- Premium option
Why We Chose These Over XPEL
- Value for customers – Similar protection at more accessible pricing
- Direct relationships – Better support and warranty processing
- Bay Area tested – These films perform well in our climate
XPEL vs. SunTek: Honest Comparison
| Feature | XPEL Ultimate Plus | SunTek Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Self-healing | Yes | Yes |
| UV protection | 99% | 99% |
| Clarity | Excellent | Excellent |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
| Price point | $$$ | $$ |
Both films will protect your vehicle from rock chips, road debris, and environmental damage. The main differences come down to pricing and installer preference.
What If You Really Want XPEL?
We respect that some customers specifically want XPEL products. If that's you, we recommend:
- Finding a certified XPEL installer in your area
- Getting quotes from multiple shops
- Asking about the specific film they use (some shops carry both premium and economy lines)
Our Recommendation
For most Bay Area drivers, SunTek or STEK PPF provides excellent protection at a fair price. We've installed thousands of square feet of these films on everything from daily drivers to exotic cars.
Want to see the difference in person? Stop by our Gilroy shop and we'll show you samples of our PPF options. We're happy to explain the differences and help you choose the right protection for your vehicle.
Get a PPF Quote
Ready to protect your paint? Contact us for a free quote. We'll discuss your needs and provide honest recommendations—even if that means pointing you elsewhere for XPEL.
Blackout Window Tinting has been family-owned since 1993, serving Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Jose, and the greater Bay Area.
Visit the Experts in Gilroy
Blackout Window Tinting is the Bay Area's premier choice for premium auto protection. Based in Gilroy at 610 Holloway Rd (behind Target), we've served the South County and Silicon Valley area for over three decades. Whether you're coming from Morgan Hill, Hollister, or anywhere else in the Bay Area, we're your trusted local source for professional window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating.
📞 Questions? Call us at 408-848-8468 or get a free quote online.
Related: SunTek vs XPEL PPF Comparison | PPF Services
Featured Brands
Learn more about the professional-grade products we use:
- LLumar - View product details and specifications
- XPEL - View product details and specifications
- SunTek PPF - View product details and specifications
- STEK PPF - View product details and specifications
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33+ years
Danny founded Blackout Window Tinting in 1993, bringing over three decades of hands-on experience in window tinting, PPF, and vinyl wraps. His expertise spans automotive and architectural applications.
PPF InstallationVinyl WrapsCeramic TintingArchitectural Film
