EMWRAPS gave this 30-year-old Subaru Sambar a custom two-tone finish in UNITY USA color PPF at our Seattle shop in SODO. The upper body is in Khaki Green and the lower body in Sonoma Green, so the JDM van keeps its vintage character while its paint sits under a layer of self-healing protective film.
- Vehicle: Subaru Sambar, about 30 years old
- Service: Two-tone color PPF (color-change paint protection film)
- Film: UNITY USA color PPF, Khaki Green (upper body) over Sonoma Green (lower body)
- Shop: EMWRAPS, Seattle (SODO)
What was done to this Subaru Sambar?
The Sambar got a two-tone color change in UNITY USA color PPF: Khaki Green on the upper body and Sonoma Green on the lower body. Two related greens give the van a classic split look, and the film protects the original paint under both colors.
How does a two-tone color PPF job work?
A two-tone color PPF job uses two film colors on one vehicle, with a planned line where they meet. On this Sambar the split runs between the upper and lower body, with Khaki Green above and Sonoma Green below.
The main steps are much like any color PPF install:
- Prep. The paint is cleaned and decontaminated so the film bonds to a clean surface.
- Plan the split. The line between the two colors is chosen so it follows the body and reads as intentional.
- Install each color. Each film is laid, trimmed and wrapped around edges panel by panel.
- Final check. Edges and seams are inspected before the vehicle goes home.
Why use color PPF on an older JDM vehicle?
Color PPF lets an older vehicle get a new look without a respray, while protecting the original paint from rock chips, light scratches, bug acid and UV. For a 30-year-old van, keeping what is left of the factory finish under cover is a real benefit.
PPF is a self-healing urethane film about 8 mil thick; light scratches in its top coat heal with heat. Color PPF adds color to that same protective layer. When removed properly, the film comes off without harming the factory paint, so the original finish is still there if the owner ever wants to go back.
The Sambar shows that color PPF is not only for supercars. We have done similar work on other older and classic cars; see our posts on the Nissan Pao color PPF restoration and color PPF on classic cars like the Nissan R34 and Mazda Miata. Our color change PPF page explains the service in more detail.
Is color PPF better than a vinyl wrap for a two-tone look?
Both color PPF and vinyl can create a two-tone look; the difference is protection. Color PPF is thicker and self-healing and guards against chips and scratches, while vinyl mainly changes the color. Vinyl costs less, and it is also removable, so it can suit owners who mainly want a new look. Our post on color change wrap vs paint job compares the options, and the vinyl wraps page covers wrap work.
What does color PPF cost in Seattle?
Color PPF at EMWRAPS runs from about $6,800 to $10,000+. The final price depends on the vehicle: its size, its panel shapes, the paint condition, the film chosen and how complex the design is. A two-tone layout is part of what we look at when we quote. Every job gets a quote before work starts.
Frequently asked questions
Can color PPF be done in two colors?
Yes. Color PPF can be done in two colors on one vehicle, as on this Subaru Sambar with UNITY USA Khaki Green on the upper body and Sonoma Green on the lower body. The split line is planned before the install so it follows the body. Both colors protect the paint the same way a single-color color PPF job does.
Is color PPF worth it on an old van like a Subaru Sambar?
Color PPF is worth it on an old van like a Subaru Sambar when the owner wants a new look and also wants to protect the original paint. The self-healing film guards against rock chips, light scratches, bug acid and UV, and it can be removed later without harming the factory finish when taken off properly.
How do you wash a vehicle with color PPF?
Wait 48 hours after the color PPF install before the first wash. After that, hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo, which is the method we recommend for any PPF. Clean bug residue and bird droppings off soon rather than letting them sit. A ceramic coating on top of the film also makes washing easier.
Does the paint need to be perfect before color PPF?
The paint does not have to be perfect, but it needs to be sound. Color PPF follows the surface underneath, so dents, deep chips and peeling paint still show through the film. On older vehicles we check the paint condition during the quote and talk through what the film will and will not hide.
Get a quote for your vehicle
Have an older car, truck or van that deserves a new look? Send the details through the quote form and we reply within 24 hours, or call (206) 383-5328. EMWRAPS is at 1900 Airport Way S #103 in Seattle's SODO.
See the finished Sambar on our Instagram.
