IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013) Discussion about the 2006+ model IS models

Clear Bra Search

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Old 04-29-13, 07:37 PM
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Laz823
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Default Clear Bra Search

Hello Everyone,

I've been reading the forum and it seems as most people recommend having a clear bra. So I have some few questions and hope I can find one in my area asap.

- I had my car for little over 1 week, would that create a problem of getting them done now?
(Still in the break-in period and I don't/hope have chip paint already)

- What's the good/decent brand would you recommend? I read about the orange discoloration (My car is Starfire/White)

- Price

I'm located in southern Cal. 626 area. I'm regretting for not having it done sooner.

Thank you in advance.
Old 04-29-13, 11:49 PM
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MyIS350G
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I have 3M clear bra on mine, so far so good. I would do it if i were you.
Price range ~$500
Old 04-30-13, 06:29 AM
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zmcgovern4
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Remember that anything that is on the paint now (ie scratches, swirls, etc) will be trapped under the clear bra if they are not corrected first. My recommendation would be to take the car to a reputable detailer prior to having the clear bra applied.

Choose a quality brand like 3M or Expel Ultimate (self healing film). Clear bra requires just as much, if not more upkeep than your paint. It is very prone to staining/etching as well as scratching and marring. Bug splatter/bird bombs can stain/etch into the clear coat in a very short period of time (also true for painted surfaces), especially if you live in a warm environment, so just like bugs/bird bombs on your paint, they need to be removed from the clear bra ASAP!
Old 04-30-13, 11:49 AM
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Laz823
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Aright. So I should get it detailed prior getting the clear bra.

As for 3M, is it all a standard or do they have different kinds that ranges in the 3M brand?
Old 04-30-13, 12:54 PM
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meefer
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http://aerotect.net/Auto.html
Old 04-30-13, 04:49 PM
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LexoticJ
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man i wish those prices were the same out here
Old 04-30-13, 05:16 PM
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VTsuckah
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A proper detail is vital prior to taking your car to get a clear bra. Your car's paint should be already cured by the time it arrived at the dealership, so you should be good to go.

I went with Ventureshield made by 3M. I got full hood, bumper, quarter panels, side view mirrors, door cups, and inner door jams covered on my SFP 350 for $1100 if I remember correctly. If you wash and protect the clear bra regularly, then it will not yellow prematurely. I use a polymer sealant when I do a full detail twice a year and intermittent waxings once a month for good measure.

The only thing that I regret was not finding a local installer who didn't use the computer cut templates. The visible seems are a pain in the ***, especially when applying wax later on.
Old 05-11-13, 01:51 AM
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Laz823
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To those that already have it installed, did you have to leave your car overnight at the shop? Im being told to for observation.. I really rather not leave my new car anywhere unless its in my garage.

Tell me your experience.

Thanks
Old 05-11-13, 02:33 AM
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kumquatism
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It can be done in a day, unless your shop is pretty booked up. It really depends on how much coverage you're looking for, and if you're doing a computer cut or custom cut.
Old 05-11-13, 02:55 AM
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Laz823
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Just the front and its only partial. I was told to bring it in the morning and when finished, leave it there till the next day for any mistakes for do overs. Why not bring the car back to inspect?

I know a full job would take a day maybe but a partial?
Old 05-13-13, 02:34 PM
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VTsuckah
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Mine took 9 hours total. He did not require me to leave it over night.
Old 05-14-13, 09:32 AM
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B16da9
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I'm very tempted to purchase a 3M kit and do the install myself.
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