Guide to Paint Protection Film vs. Ceramic Coating for Your Rivian

Welcome, Rivian enthusiasts, to an in-depth exploration of the best ways to protect your Rivian R1T or R1S’s pristine finish. You can find our more extended Blog post on the Paint Protection Film vs Ceramic Coating Brentwood - Nashville ClearBra page At Nashville ClearBra, we're proud to sponsor the Southeast Rivian forum here on Rivian Forums, and we want to share our expertise on Paint Protection Film (PPF) and Ceramic Coating. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, starting in 2004, we’ve perfected our craft and are excited to help you make an informed decision about protecting your investment.

Introduction to Paint Protection Film (PPF) and Ceramic Coating
As Rivian owners, you understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s sleek, luxurious look. Both PPF and Ceramic Coating offer robust protection but serve different purposes and have distinct benefits. Let’s delve into what each method entails and how they can benefit your Rivian.

What is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?
PPF is a thermoplastic urethane film applied to the exterior of a vehicle to protect the paint from chips, scratches, and minor abrasions. It's particularly effective against road debris, rocks, and other physical impacts.

• Durability: PPF is highly durable, providing a thick, protective layer that can absorb impacts and prevent damage to the paint underneath.
• Self-Healing: One of the standout features of modern PPF is its self-healing properties. Minor scratches and swirls disappear with the application of heat.
• Appearance: Available in both glossy and matte finishes, PPF can enhance the look of your Rivian without altering its color.

For a comprehensive overview of our PPF services, visit our Nashville ClearBra Paint Protection Film page.

What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic Coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle. It chemically bonds with the factory paint, creating a layer of protection.

• Hydrophobic Properties: Ceramic Coating makes the vehicle surface water-repellent, causing water and dirt to slide off easily, which makes cleaning your Rivian a breeze.
• UV Protection: It protects the paint from UV rays, preventing oxidation and fading.
• Gloss and Shine: Ceramic Coating enhances the color depth and shine of your Rivian, giving it a showroom-quality finish.

For more details on our Ceramic Coating services, check out our Nashville ClearBra Ceramic Coating page.

Comparing PPF and Ceramic Coating
Protection:

• PPF: Offers superior protection against physical damage like rock chips, scratches, and dings.
• Ceramic Coating: Provides excellent protection against environmental contaminants like bird droppings, tree sap, and UV rays.

Appearance:

• PPF: Can be either invisible or add a matte finish to your Rivian. Maintains the original paint appearance while offering physical protection.
• Ceramic Coating: Enhances the gloss and depth of the paint, giving it a more polished look.

Maintenance:

• PPF: Requires less maintenance in terms of physical protection but needs regular washing to maintain clarity.
• Ceramic Coating: Requires regular washing to maintain its hydrophobic properties but reduces the need for waxing and polishing.

Our Process at Nashville ClearBra
At Nashville ClearBra, we follow a meticulous process to ensure your Rivian receives the best protection possible. Here’s a step-by-step look at our installation process:

1. Initial Consultation: We assess your Rivian’s current condition and discuss your specific needs and preferences.
2. Preparation: The vehicle is thoroughly washed and decontaminated to ensure a clean surface.
3. Paint Correction: If necessary, we perform paint correction to remove any existing imperfections before applying PPF or Ceramic Coating.
4. Application:
   • PPF: We use computer-cut patterns for precise application, ensuring seamless coverage and a perfect fit.
   • Ceramic Coating: The coating is applied in layers, with each layer curing before the next is added.
5. Inspection: A final inspection is conducted to ensure flawless application and customer satisfaction.

Why Choose Nashville ClearBra?

• Expertise and Experience: With over 20 years in the business, we've developed a deep understanding of the best practices and technologies in paint protection.
• Quality Products: We use only the highest quality products, including STEK, XPEL, and other industry-leading brands.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our goal is to exceed your expectations. We provide comprehensive warranties and ongoing support to ensure your Rivian remains in top condition.

Our Locations
We serve Rivian owners in multiple locations:

• Nashville ClearBra: Conveniently located at 1005 Flagpole CT STE 103 Brentwood, Tennessee. For more information, visit our Nashville ClearBra website.
• Seattle ClearBra: Visit our Seattle ClearBra website for services in the Pacific Northwest.
• Vancouver ClearBra: Serving the Vancouver area, details can be found on our Vancouver ClearBra blog.

Social Media and Community Engagement
Stay connected with us through our social media channels. Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, project showcases, and tips on maintaining your Rivian.

Get in Touch
Ready to protect your Rivian with the best in the industry? Contact us today:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 615-693-3155

Visit our Nashville ClearBra website to learn more about our services and book an appointment.

Conclusion
At Nashville ClearBra, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality paint protection solutions for your Rivian. Whether you choose PPF or Ceramic Coating, our expert team is here to ensure your vehicle remains in pristine condition. Thank you for being a part of the Rivian Forums community, and we look forward to serving you.

For more information on PPF vs. Ceramic Coating, visit our detailed blog post.

We appreciate your support and are excited to continue protecting and enhancing the Rivian vehicles we all love.

Thanks for this information. Question for you. I got the factory installed Xpel Stealth wrap, and was reading that some folks recommend also doing a ceramic coating over the top of the PPF. Is that recommended, and if so, why? Also, what type of ceramic coating would be best if this is the way to go?

HokieBird7980 said:

Thanks for this information. Question for you. I got the factory installed Xpel Stealth wrap, and was reading that some folks recommend also doing a ceramic coating over the top of the PPF. Is that recommended, and if so, why? Also, what type of ceramic coating would be best if this is the way to go?

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Yes it is a great thing IF you plan to always hand wash the vehicle. Its main purpose is so that you can clean off dirt, bug guts, tree sap etc... really easy. My suggestion is XPEL FUSION PLUS Satin version as it is designed with the XPEL STEALTH in mind which is what Rivian installs from the factory. I would very much urge to have a shop do it cause with STEALTH it can be pretty easy to mess up and cause high spots on the film that you won't be able to remove from all of our years of knowledge. There will be a yearly maintenance top up coating that needs to be done to keep the ceramic functioning like new year after year.

Thanks for your information. I look forward to reading your blogs as well. If a vehicle is already ceramic coated can PPF be placed ovr that ?

dradam said:

Thanks for your information. I look forward to reading your blogs as well. If a vehicle is already ceramic coated can PPF be placed ovr that ?

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Absolutely it can, we've yet to have any negative outcomes by doing that. Vinyl on the other hand won't stick to a ceramic coated vehicle.

HokieBird7980 said:

Thanks for this information. Question for you. I got the factory installed Xpel Stealth wrap, and was reading that some folks recommend also doing a ceramic coating over the top of the PPF. Is that recommended, and if so, why? Also, what type of ceramic coating would be best if this is the way to go?

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Ceramic everything. Over PPF it makes everything fall off more easily just like it does on paint, glass, plastic, everything. My Rivian is wearing it top to bottom on every single surface. It keeps plastic lenses from fogging over time too, and rain flies off the glass. I've used Avalon King for years, and recommend it.

I was quoted about $5-7k to do full PPF & ceramic on my R1T in the north east. I get that stealth wrap looks cool, and PPF can protect the paint from damage; but really wasn't sold that it needed it.

You could take the family on an international vacation for that cost. If $$ is no object, then by all means.

Plus in 7-10 years, the PPF will wear and you'll have to pay to take it off and re apply it. With inflation that might cost $10k then. Even if you arent planning on holding it for that long, Rivians with PPF don't command a premium on the resale market, so it essentially depreciates to $0.

For my situation, figured it was better to go "au naturale" and if it got scratched etc. I could use the paint pen, then down the line, just pay a shop for a solid detail job and to buff the clear coat to bring it back to new.

I used Gyeon mohs on my expel PPF and it makes it so much easier to clean!

NashvilleClearBra said:

Absolutely it can, we've yet to have any negative outcomes by doing that. Vinyl on the other hand won't stick to a ceramic coated vehicle.

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Thanks for the info-- wich you had a shop near D.C.

We aren't toooo far away down here in Nashville are we =) If ever any questions we are here for y'all.

Here's our newest blog post on the Nashville ClearBra website:

How does PPF compare to vinyl wraps?

https://nashvilleclearbra.com/how-does-ppf-compare-to-vinyl-wraps/

Our latest blog posts to help answer common questions. Will be many more added in coming days weeks and months so stay in touch.
How does PPF compare to vinyl wraps?
Is Paint Protection Film Expensive?
Paint Protection Film vs Ceramic Coating Brentwood

If I go with ceramic coating do I always have to wash by hand?

What kind of maintenance is required?

RedDragon said:

If I go with ceramic coating do I always have to wash by hand?

What kind of maintenance is required?

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Yes hand washing is very needed when you have ceramic as drive through washes will wear out the ceramic coating prematurely. Once a year follow up maintenance is to be done to keep the coating working long term.

Our latest post on PPF Clear Bra

How Long Does Paint Protection Film Last?