EMWRAPS changed the color of two Tesla Model 3s with UNITY USA color PPF at our Seattle shop in SODO. A Model 3 Performance went to a deep gloss Midnight Purple, and a second Model 3 went to Champion Green, a color with fine gold flakes in it. Both cars now have a new color and a self-healing film protecting the factory paint.
- Vehicles: Tesla Model 3 Performance and Tesla Model 3
- Service: Color PPF (color-change paint protection film)
- Film: UNITY USA color PPF in Midnight Purple (gloss) and Champion Green (with fine gold flakes)
- Shop: EMWRAPS, Seattle (SODO)
What is color PPF on a Tesla Model 3?
Color PPF is a colored, self-healing paint protection film that changes a Tesla Model 3's color while protecting its paint. It looks like a color change wrap, but it is made from thick urethane like clear PPF, so it guards against rock chips, light scratches, bug acid and UV.
PPF is about 8 mil thick, and light scratches in its top coat heal with heat. Color PPF handles the protection and the new look in one layer. When removed properly, the film comes off without harming the factory paint. Read more on our color change PPF page and our Tesla PPF page.
What does Midnight Purple color PPF look like?
Midnight Purple is a deep purple UNITY USA color PPF with a glossy finish. On this Model 3 Performance, the gloss film brings out the curves of the hood, fenders and body lines, so the shape of the car reads clearly in the color.
A gloss color film reflects light much like fresh paint. That makes it a good fit for a car with smooth, rounded panels like the Model 3, where the reflections travel across the body.
What is Champion Green color PPF?
Champion Green is a UNITY USA color PPF with fine gold flakes in it. The flakes add sparkle inside the green, so the color shifts with the light instead of looking flat.
With color PPF, the flake effect comes with the same self-healing, protective film as any other UNITY USA color, so the green also shields the paint from chips and scratches.
Color PPF or vinyl wrap: which is better for a Tesla Model 3?
Color PPF is the better choice when you want both a new color and real paint protection; vinyl is the lower-cost choice when you mainly want a new look. Both are removable and both protect the paint from the elements to some degree, but color PPF is thicker and self-healing and stops rock chips that vinyl will not.
At EMWRAPS, a full vinyl color change runs $3,500 to $5,500 depending on the size of the vehicle. Color PPF runs from about $6,800 to $10,000+. Our post on the best PPF for Tesla in Seattle covers clear and color film choices, and color change wrap vs paint job compares all three routes.
How do you care for color PPF on a Tesla?
Wait 48 hours after the install before the first wash, then hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo. Hand washing is the method we recommend for any PPF.
Ceramic coating on top of color PPF adds gloss, a hydrophobic easy-wash surface and UV protection, and ceramic on top of PPF is the setup we recommend. Ceramic over film runs $500 to $800: the lower end as the last step of a new color PPF install, the higher end on film already on the car, which includes a full detail and decontamination.
For another Tesla color PPF build, see our Tesla Cybertruck color PPF post.
Frequently asked questions
How much does color PPF cost for a Tesla Model 3 in Seattle?
Color PPF at EMWRAPS runs from about $6,800 to $10,000+. The final price for a Tesla Model 3 depends on the film color, the paint condition and how much of the car is covered. Send photos and details through the quote form and EMWRAPS replies with a quote within 24 hours.
Does color PPF protect Tesla paint?
Yes. Color PPF protects Tesla paint the same way clear PPF does. The self-healing urethane film, about 8 mil thick, stops rock chips, light scratches, bug acid and UV damage. Light scratches in the top coat heal with heat. The color change comes with that protection instead of replacing it.
Can color PPF be removed from a Tesla Model 3?
Yes. Color PPF can be removed from a Tesla Model 3 without harming the factory paint when it is taken off properly. Because the paint stays under the film the whole time, removing it later shows the original color, protected from the years of road wear the film absorbed.
How long does color PPF last?
PPF manufacturer warranties run 7 to 10 years depending on the brand. How long a color PPF finish keeps looking good also depends on care. Hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo, wait 48 hours after the install before the first wash, and remove bug and bird residue soon.
Get a quote for your Tesla
Want a new color for your Model 3 with paint protection built in? 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 Champion Green Model 3 on our Instagram.
