Harker Heights Ceramic Coatings • May 25, 2023
2023 BMW M4 Competition Clear Bra Installation Process
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2023 BMW M4 Competition Clear Bra Installation Process in Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights

This is our three-peat client from Lampasas that we have also done PPF for his 2023 Audi RS5 and 2022 Maserati Ghibli Trofeo. In this case, the 2023 BMW M4 Competition clear bra job was for a track package, which includes hood, fenders, mirrors, bumper, partial A pillar and partial roof line. This car is a perfect example of why PPF is needed immediately. Our client bought this car nearly new with only about 3000 miles, but it already had accumulated quite a bit of rock chips, and we installed PPF on the 2023 BMW M4 Competition to “stop the bleeding.”

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PPF, otherwise known as clear bra or paint protection film, will protect this 2023 BMW M4 Competition from most rock chips and scratches in the areas it is covered. It is possible, in some cases, for the rocks to penetrate the film, but typically, it will stop just about everything from the daily course of driving. This 2023 BMW M4 Competition clear bra project also enhances the paint’s shine and provides UV protection from the Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights sun!

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Book your 2023 BMW M4 Competition clear bra/ ceramic coating service with us in Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights!

Did you know, you can call OR text us at 254.550.4142 or visit our contact us page! 


Apart from this, you can continue to read more about our ceramic coating and clear bra, and paint correction options below. Unlike many shops, we will ensure our Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights area clients do not exceed their budget or desired longevity. As you can see in our Google reviews, we always have our clients’ best interests in mind! Both ceramic coating and clear bra are great options to protect your vehicle from road grime, and debris.

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Excellent

★★★★★

Based on 273 reviews

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    • steven perricone
    • 17 March 2024

    ★★★★★


    They did a great job. Very knowledgeable and got my car done fast.

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    ★★★★★

    • tsamarr
    • 2024.03.21

    ★★★★★


    Took my wife’s Mazda CX 5 with a fair amount of swirling in the paint to HHCC and was not disappointed. It took about 30 min from the time I inquired to receive a text and link to book services. On the day of service Matt was extremely professional and exactly on time like he said he would be. The post care instructions and the kit he gave me were an awesome added touch. Car looks great now and I am very happy. Go check him out if you are interested.

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    • Gregory “Bendog” 12345
    • 20 March 2024

    ★★★★★


    Very helpful to make sure you know how to maintain vehicle after service

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    • Jasmine Clarke
    • 19 March 2024

    ★★★★★


    Love, love, love, the work done to my Volkswagen Atlas. I received the PPF/ Clear bra and ceramic coating and Matthew did not disappoint. Customer service and communication was outstanding and I would recommend to anyone interested in protecting their vehicles exterior. Thank you Matthew and HHCC for your amazing services!

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    • Stephen Kelley
    • 18 March 2024

    ★★★★★


    It was great working with Matthew. He provided updates along the way and did an amazing job on our vehicle.

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PAINT PROTECTION FILM/PPF/CLEAR BRA OPTIONS:

Typically, we would use STEK clear bra, Llumar, or Legend PPF gloss or matte paint protection film. Next, This clear bra article covers the major differences between clear bra/paint protection film/PPF companies, if any. Moreover, there are minimal differences between major film manufacturers like Xpel, SunTek, Eastman, Llumar, 3M, STEK clear bra, Flexishield, Global, Legend, and more. Importantly, the key takeaway is that the primary differences are in the properties of the adhesive, which installers have to deal with, but generally don’t affect anything the client sees.

is clear bra/paint protection film/PPF the same as xpel film?

Of course, our clients at HHCC frequently ask about Xpel clear bra/paint protection film. Naturally, our clients want to know if Legend PPF, STEK, Llumar, Kavaca, and other brands compares to Xpel at all. Did you know, a lot of people use Xpel to mean clear bra, because Xpel is one of the most popular brands? Besides the information above about clear bra/PPF, we also discuss Xpel and if it’s the same as PPF/clear bra in this article.


Lastly, you can read more about clear bra/paint protection film by clicking the button above.

CLEAR BRA INFO

CERAMIC COATING, CLEAR BRA, AND PAINT CORRECTION OFFERINGS IN THE COPPERAS COVE/KILLEEN/HARKER HEIGHTS AREA:

– Solo is a one-year ceramic coating from SB3 Coatings. Undoubtedly, this is our most popular option, after SB3 Alpha five-year ceramic coating.


– Omega is a two-year ceramic coating. Interestingly, SB3 Omega, like many other coatings, enhances the vehicle’s gloss. 


– Thirty3 is a three-year ceramic coating from SB3 Coatings. Of note, Thirty3 has a three-hour cure period before getting wet, which is our fastest-drying coating.


– Alpha is a five-year coating, similar to other major brands’ five-year package and 9H. Of course, SB3 Alpha is also from SB3 Coatings.


– Trinity is a seven-year offering from SB3 Coatings. It should be noted that Trinity is a multi-layer ceramic coating.


– Vortex is a two-year coating for wheels and calipers from SB3 Coatings. Unlike many other coatings, Vortex is a high-temp coating.


– Optic is a one-year ceramic coating similar to glass on the market and is used on your windshield/glass surfaces from SB3 Coatings. Unlike Rain-X or similar products, SB3 Optic will last a year. Another critical point is the incredible hydrophobic properties that SB3 Optic has over Rain-X.

CERAMIC COATING INFO

TEN-YEAR CERAMIC COATING:

– System X Max is a ten-year ceramic coating, and the longest-lasting ceramic coating we offer. Clearly, we have many options that will fit anyone’s budget or desired longevity in the Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights area.


Undoubtedly, ceramic coatings will last as long as we care for them. Of course, you can more about ceramic coating by clicking the button above. 

CERAMIC COATING INFO

2023 BMW M4 Competition Clear Bra/Ceramic Coating - Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights

The BMW M4 Competition is a high-performance sports car that belongs to BMW’s M lineup, known for its exceptional performance, aggressive styling, and advanced technologies. Here are some key features and specifications of the BMW M4 Competition:

  1. Engine and Performance: The M4 Competition is equipped with a powerful 3.0-liter inline-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. In recent models, this engine produces around 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission or an optional six-speed manual transmission. The M4 Competition boasts impressive acceleration and can reach 0 to 60 mph in just around 3.8 seconds.
  2. Design and Styling: The M4 Competition exhibits a bold and aggressive design that distinguishes it from the standard BMW 4 Series models. It features large air intakes, a sculpted hood, aerodynamic elements, flared fenders, quad exhaust pipes, and an iconic double-kidney grille specific to M models. The M4 Competition has a sporty and muscular stance, conveying its performance-oriented nature.
  3. Performance Features: The M4 Competition comes with various performance-enhancing features. These may include an adaptive M suspension, an electronically controlled M Sport rear differential, an M Drive system with customizable driving modes, and M Compound brakes for excellent stopping power. Optional features like carbon-ceramic brakes and an M Carbon exterior package are also available.
  4. Interior and Technology: Inside, the M4 Competition offers a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and advanced technology. It features supportive sport seats, an M-specific instrument cluster, an M Sport steering wheel, and carbon fiber or aluminum trim accents. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display, BMW’s iDrive interface, smartphone integration, navigation, and a premium audio system. Advanced driver assistance systems and safety features are also present.
  5. M4 Competition Packages: BMW offers various packages to further enhance the M4 Competition’s performance and customization options. For example, the Competition Package includes additional engine tuning, chassis enhancements, and exclusive design elements. Other packages may offer carbon-fiber components, upgraded suspension, exhaust systems, and more.


Applying a clear bra, also known as paint protection film (PPF), to a BMW M4 Competition can provide several benefits:

  1. Protection against rock chips and scratches: The clear bra acts as a sacrificial layer that absorbs impacts from road debris, preventing them from directly hitting and damaging the vehicle’s paint. This helps to protect the M4 Competition’s front end, which is prone to rock chips and scratches during daily driving or on the track.
  2. Preserving the paint’s finish: The M4 Competition often features a high-quality paint job with specialized finishes like metallic or matte. Applying a clear bra helps to preserve the paint’s original finish by shielding it from fading, discoloration, and damage caused by UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap, and other environmental contaminants.
  3. Easy maintenance and cleaning: Clear bra has self-healing properties, meaning that minor scratches and swirl marks on the film can disappear over time with heat or light. This makes maintenance and cleaning easier, as the film is resistant to stains and can be washed and detailed without worrying about damaging the paint.
  4. Retaining the vehicle’s resale value: By protecting the M4 Competition’s paint from chips, scratches, and other damages, the clear bra helps maintain its overall appearance and condition. This can be beneficial when it comes time to sell or trade in the vehicle, as a well-maintained paint job can contribute to a higher resale value.
  5. Invisible protection: Quality clear bra installations are virtually invisible when properly applied. This means that the appearance of the M4 Competition remains unaffected, allowing the vehicle’s design, color, and body lines to shine through without any noticeable changes.


It’s important to note that the effectiveness of a clear bra largely depends on the quality of the film itself and the installation process. It’s recommended to seek professional installation from experienced technicians who specialize in paint protection film to ensure the best results

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS AND PRODUCTS FOR YOUR 2023 BMW M4 Competition CLEAR BRA/CERAMIC COATING

Car care products we love:

  1. Drying towel(s): Autofiber Dreadnought 20”x30” x1:  https://amzn.to/3Cd5Y9w
  2. Smaller drying towel (can also be used on glass) x2 (one for paint, one for wheels): Autofiber Dreadnought Jr. 16”x16” – https://amzn.to/3iazPbX
  3. Wash mitt: Autofiber Zero Cuff Wash Mitt x2 (one in black for wheels, one other color for paint): https://amzn.to/3WYu3Jw
  4. Auto detailing towels, general purpose (wiping off bird poop, quick wipe up, interior, etc): Autofiber Elite detailing towel: https://amzn.to/3IeLiSo
  5. Wheel drying/detailing microfiber towels, black: Autofiber Zero Edge: https://amzn.to/3Z0GJBe
  6. Quick detailer/glass cleaner/waterless wash/rinseless wash concentrate: American Detailer Garage Wipeout (can be diluted and lasts a very long time): https://amzn.to/3WZkwlp
  7. Spray bottles for ADG Wipeout and other products: https://amzn.to/3Q3kxT5
  8. Buckets with grit guards x2 (one for wheels, one for paint): https://amzn.to/3jxjnmq
  9. Pre-treatment and wheel cleaner, American Detailer Garage F-Bomb diluted 10:1 (can be used 20:1 for interior): https://amzn.to/3G1NV7w
  10. The best wheel cleaning tool we have ever used, the Autofiber Barrel blade (reaches the barrel, between the brake caliper, and narrow spokes): https://amzn.to/3Z0wnkK
  11. Foam cannon wash tools for auto detailing, the MTM Hydro PF22.2 has a wide base to prevent tipping: https://amzn.to/3WE591K
  12. American Detailer Garage Fuzion foaming hybrid wash (for use in foam cannon, use 2+ ounces per fill): https://amzn.to/3Z3MApg
  13. Microfiber detergent to extend the life of your Autofiber microfiber and other towels: https://amzn.to/3jBxp6B
  14. Optional but useful for trucks and SUVs: Autofiber Mitt on a Stick Pro. https://www.autofiber.com/products/mitt-on-a-stick-pro-adjustable-wash-tool-with-360-locking-head-long-pole-35-to-83?variant=40748237816001
  15. Our most favorite detailing tool we have is our Adam’s Spot-Free Water system. Pro: https://amzn.to/3VKkU6k Standard: https://amzn.to/3WXbOnK
  16. Our favorite pressure washer we have used is the Grandfalls from Giraffe Tools. https://amzn.to/3WE3gCq
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Last updated on May 3rd, 2023. First, all clear bra and ceramic coating (and paint correction) content is copyright of Harker Heights Ceramic Coatings, LLC (HHCC). Of course, unless specifically cited otherwise. So that you know, HHCC does not authorize the content on hhceramiccoatings.com. Obviously, specifically within the Lampasas/Copperas Cove/Killeen/Fort (Ft.) Hood/Harker Heights/Nolanville/Belton/Temple/Salado areas. Lastly, selective reproduction may be authorized for other geographical areas (outside of the traditional HHCC service area) only with the express written consent of HHCC.

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We are going to give you some pointers when you pick up, and we also include the note included below. In addition, we have dedicated aftercare sections of our website to provide you with product recommendations and instructions. You can also view the video we created below that teaches you how to care for both ceramic coatings and paint protection film (clear bra).  Aftercare Instructions Please avoid washing the car for 3-5 days as the PPF is drying, and for another 7 days, avoid scrubbing hard as the ceramic coating cures. You may notice small water spots under the film as the film dries. This will go away (usually) as it is exposed to more sun and just naturally. Due to the fact that PPF is a wet-apply method, this is common. Please avoid trying to press down or move the water during this period. Letting the moisture evaporate naturally results in a better final appearance. We heat treat the edges on all PPF to attempt to avoid any lifting. In some cases, we try to anticipate where body panels might flex or what might be likely to lift and trim away or apply extra heat. If you find some edges are lifting over the next two weeks (this is the industry standard), please make note, and we will trim everything we can at once. We use computer software and a large plotter to print most of our body panels. We make every attempt to ensure uniformity and the smallest amount of imperfections as possible. We spend hours trimming, scanning, and doing what we can to ensure a near perfect delivery. Rest assured, if we wouldn’t want it on our own BMW i8, we won’t let it leave our shop. With that said, if you are dissatisfied with any portion of the installation, please do not hesitate to reach out so that we may discuss solutions for you. We are a small business, and our relationships are the most important part of the job. On lighter-colored vehicles, dirt will begin to accumulate on the edges of the PPF. The dirt is also there on darker vehicles, but it just isn’t noticeable. The ceramic coating helps with this cleanup process, but a great tip is to use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush to lightly brush the edges if they become too unsightly. Using a pressure washer closer than 3ft away, especially near the edges, or with a narrow tip (25 degree or up is preferred, 0 or 15 degree could cut the PPF if the pressure washer is powerful enough and placed too close), could damage the PPF, get water under the film, or lift the edges. Automatic car washes with brushes will scrub the ceramic coating off the film and will damage the PPF!! We do not recommend even touchless car washes for PPF as you have no control over the degrees of spray, the chemicals used, etc. To clean the vehicle regularly we recommend using rinseless wash. We use Americana Global products (americanaglobal.com) and use code HHCC10 to receive 10% off for however long you use their products. Rinseless wash comes in 32oz or other containers, and we recommend diluting it one ounce to one gallon, so you can get 32 gallons from one container. All films are self-healing, meaning smaller scratches and imperfections will improve or go away entirely with heat (from the sun, etc). The films are thick, and will prevent most rock chips. However, the film is a sacrificial layer and could be damaged by a large enough piece of debris at a high enough speed. Final Thoughts Lastly, you have chosen to protect your vehicle as much as possible! The film will last over 10 years (most automotive clearcoats are only rated 10-15 years on their own), it won’t yellow, and you should have no issues. However, the film is not impervious to water spots, bird droppings, and other things like sap. Try to remove these as fast as possible, especially within the first few weeks. If water spots do not come out in the future, you can try a mix of vinegar and water.
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Rock chips or debris that penetrate the paint protection film, bird droppings/bug guts/hard water spots that are left to etch into the clear bra are not warrantable items, nor are wash damage items such as cutting the film with a pressure washer, taking it through an automatic car wash, or lifting the edges with a pressure washer. The clear bra/paint protection film is designed to be a sacrificial layer for your paint. It IS possible that a rock or other piece of debris, traveling at a high enough rate, could penetrate the film. This is fairly rare, but depending on driving conditions, road construction, and mileage/stance of the vehicle, is possible, and not warrantable. Other items are at fault to the owner of the vehicle, and not warrantable, although Harker Heights Ceramic Coatings makes EVERY effort to work with clients to fix/repair damage to the clear bra/paint as cheaply and painlessly as possible.
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