New Dealership Survey Finds Paint Protection Film Can Boost Car Values

Study shows PPF can add up to 15% to a vehicle's resale price.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:47am

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A new survey of car dealerships across the United States has found that installing paint protection film (PPF) on a vehicle can increase its resale value by up to 15%. The study, conducted by a leading automotive research firm, polled hundreds of dealerships to understand how PPF impacts the perceived value and desirability of used cars.

Why it matters

As consumers become more aware of the long-term benefits of PPF in preserving a vehicle's appearance, this study provides valuable data to both car buyers and sellers on the potential financial upside of investing in paint protection. The findings could influence more car owners to consider PPF as a way to protect their investment.

The details

The survey found that dealerships estimate PPF can boost a vehicle's resale value by 10-15%, depending on factors like the age and condition of the car. Newer vehicles with PPF installed were seen as more valuable, with dealers willing to pay higher prices at trade-in. The study also revealed that cars with PPF were more likely to sell faster on dealer lots compared to similar models without paint protection.

  • The survey was conducted in January 2026 by a leading automotive research firm.

The players

Automotive Research Firm

The company that conducted the nationwide survey of car dealerships on the impact of paint protection film on vehicle resale values.

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The takeaway

This study provides clear evidence that investing in paint protection film can pay dividends when it's time to sell a vehicle, with the potential to boost resale value by a significant margin. As consumer awareness of PPF grows, more car owners may choose to add this protective coating to preserve the appearance and value of their automobiles.