I just bought an '02 last weekend, and am scheduled to get the clear bra installed this week on the hood, headlights, and front bumper. I was stupid and agreed to the clear bra while my car was getting washed at the dealership, and I couldn't look at it first to decide if the clear stuff was a good idea.

There are a few paint chips already in the front bumper, and a bit of curb rash under the front lip. Will the clear bra go over the paint chips ok or will there be a small bubble there? Unfortunately Honda sevice can't really tell me anything, except that I can't get a refund because "this part was custom made for my car", and I should just schedule an appointment to get it put on. I guess I can always remove it if it looks bad?
Anyone want to buy a clear bra kit cheap?
--Jonathan

 

In most cases, the clear bra will go right over any small nicks/chips in the paint. Infact, given the way the light reflects off the film, the clear bra will often hide many of the smaller chips. Unless you have severe gouges in the plastic, I wouldn't worry about the bra bubbling over any imperfections in the paint. Of course, the thicker your film, the better the results.

As for tearing off a clear bra after installation, I think you'll be hard pressed to find a buyer. From experience, the film is pretty much garbage after being installed and removed. That, plus its a pricey proposition to remove something after spending a considerable sum of money on it and without use. Keep it on. Whats the worst that could happen? You won't get any more rock chips!

Asif

 

Oh yeah, I know the bra would be trashed if removed after installation, I was offering to sell it new before I install it, since the dealership won't give me any refund. BUT, from what you said above, and since I did pay for it I might as well give it a shot.

 

i'd probably "touch up" any fhe chips on the fenders before the film is applied. there's a really good "how-to" somewhere on s2ki.

the fluid (usually soapy water) used to activate the adhesive on the film is going to be trapped in the chips and not get squeegied out. eventually is going to evaporate, but why give rust a chance to get going on the steel.