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Project Spotlight: Full Matte + Ceramic Coating on a 2025 GMC Yukon At Humble Crew Auto Spa, we love turning heads with our transformations—and our latest project was no exception. This brand-new 2025 GMC Yukon rolled into our Plano, TX studio looking fresh, but the owner wanted something more: a full matte stealth look with long-lasting protection. Here’s how we brought that vision to life. Step 1: Surface Prep – The Foundation of a Flawless Finish Before any film or coating goes on a vehicle, proper surface prep is crucial. We started by thoroughly washing and decontaminating the Yukon's factory gloss paint. This included: -Snow foam bath -Iron Decontamtion to remove embedded iron particles in the paint -Clay bar treatment, which removes embedded contamination that isn't removed with a wash -Wheels, tires, trim (like the front grill), headlights, and all panels underneath are cleaned This process ensures that every surface is perfectly clean and smooth for optimal film adhesion. Step 2: Disassembly When we are doing full body matte PPF, it's important to remove trim and badges to get a seamless installation of the film over the panels. We removed door handles, mirrors, badges, and trim to ensure a clean tuck of all our PPF. This gives the installation not only great looks, but far better durability over time. Without exposed edges, the film is far less likely to catch and lift, improving its longevity on this car's paint. Step 3: Full-Body Matte PPF Installation Next came the star of the show: a full-body Paint Protection Film (PPF) in a matte finish. We used Ultrafit Matte, which gives the vehicle that stealthy, satin look while offering top-tier protection against Rock chips, Road debris, Scratches, and Scuffs . Step 4: Reassembly Now that all the film has been laid, tucked, and post heated to lock in the edges, it's time to reassemble the trim and badges. We reinstall everything we removed in step 2, and make sure all switches and lights are functioning as normal. For badges, we reattach them to the vehicle using premade templates of the badges (that we made before removal). Step 5: Ceramic Coating Over Matte PPF With the matte PPF installed, we locked in the look and boosted the durability with a Nxtzen Elite ceramic coating. This specialized formula is made specifically for matte and satin finishes. It adds: -Hydrophobic properties for easier cleaning, especially on matte. -Enhanced stain resistance from bird droppings, tree sap, and road tar. -Deepening of the matte texture and sheen This step ensures that the Yukon's stealth finish won’t fade or wear prematurely, even in Texas heat.

Bespoke Brilliance: Full-Body PPF for the Tesla Model 3 The Tesla Model 3, with its sleek lines and futuristic design, is a symbol of modern automotive innovation. This new refresh adds a new aesthetic, and with the updated tech and better refinement, I think this generation Model 3 is a lot more handsome than the previous. That being said, Tesla paint is notorious for being thin and chipping easily from debris. That means our PPF install on the car will demand more than a standard solution—it requires precision. At Humble Crew Auto Spa, a bespoke full-body Paint Protection Film (PPF) installation ensures every curve and contour of your Model 3 remains pristine. We're going to walk you through how removing trim, badges, and components elevates our PPF. What is a Bespoke PPF Install? Unlike standard PPF applications, a bespoke install involves disassembling parts of the vehicle to tuck film edges seamlessly beneath trim, badges, and panels. This method eliminates visible seams, reduces dirt traps, and ensures maximum adhesion. For the Tesla Model 3, this approach preserves its factory-clean look while shielding it from road hazards in a way that ensures durability. Why Choose Bespoke PPF for Your Tesla Model 3? -Seamless Aesthetics: Maintains the car’s minimalist design with no visible film edges. -Enhanced Durability: Tucked edges resist peeling, even in car washes or harsh weather. -Full Body Defense: Protects every panel from rock chips, scratches, UV rays, and bug acids. -Resale Value Preservation: A flawless exterior keeps your Model 3 looking showroom-new. The Bespoke Process: Step-by-Step 1. Disassembly Key components are carefully removed to access edges: Door gaskets/trim: Flush-mounted window trim are detached to wrap film around their recessed housing. Badges: Tesla emblems and dual-motor logos are lifted to tuck PPF underneath. Lights: Tail lights and headlights are gently removed for full-edge coverage. Why It Matters: “Disassembly prevents ‘edge lifting’—a common issue with surface-level PPF,” explains Jesse, lead technician at Humble Crew. “For a car as complex as the Model 3, hidden edges are non-negotiable.” 2. Surface Preparation Decontamination: A pH-neutral wash, clay bar treatment, and alcohol wipe-down ensure a contaminant-free surface. We deep clean the paint using an iron, tar, and bug remover (each respectively) to remove any contaminants that aren't removed by the wash and clay bar. We'll also use a brush to clean the crevices of the vehicle so that any dirt or dust doesn't drip into the PPF during the install, ensuring a clean finish once we're done. 3. Precision Film Application Using pre-cut patterns tailored for the Model 3, technicians employ advanced techniques: Stretching & Molding: Heat guns and specialized tools help conform PPF around curves like the front bumper and wheel arches. Wrapping Edges: Film is tucked 2–3mm beneath panels, ensuring no exposed edges on doors, hood, or trunk.

The Honda Civic Type R is a masterpiece of engineering—a blend of razor-sharp performance and bold design. When a 2025 model in eye-catching Boost Blue arrived at Humble Crew Auto Spa, the team knew it deserved nothing less than their Ultimate Armor Package. Combining paint correction, paint protection film (PPF), and ceramic coatings, this process ensures the Type R stays showroom-ready, no matter the road ahead. Here’s a deep dive into how they pulled it off. Why Ultimate Armor? For the Civic Type R, this trifecta of services is a game-changer: 1. Paint Correction restores a pristine finish prior to sealing. 2. PPF acts as a physical barrier against chips and scratches. 3. Ceramic Coating adds chemical resistance and effortless maintenance. --- Paint Correction: Restoring the Factory Finish Even brand-new cars often have microscopic imperfections from transit, dealership washes, or factory polishing. For the Type R’s glossy Boost Blue paint, these flaws (like swirl marks or light scratches) could dull its vibrant finish. The Process: Decontamination: The car was washed with pH-neutral soap, followed by a clay bar treatment to remove bonded contaminants like rail dust or industrial fallout. Compounding: Using a dual-action polisher, we methodically leveled the clear coat with a fine abrasive compound. This erased swirls and restored depth to the Boost Blue hue. Final Polish: A finer polish enhanced gloss and prepared the surface for PPF and ceramic coating. Inspection: Under LED lighting, every panel was scrutinized to ensure a flawless, mirror-like finish. Why It Matters: “Paint correction isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a perfectly smooth base for PPF and coatings to adhere,” explains Jesse, Owner/Operator at Humble Crew. “Skip this step, and you’ll trap imperfections under the film forever.” --- Full Front-End PPF: Armor for the Type R’s Aggressive Styling The Civic Type R’s angular front end is prone to rock chips and bug splatter. Honda paint in particular can be thinner than average, resulting in a finish that is easily damaged by minor debris on the road. We're applying PPF to: -Full hood -Front Fenders -Front Bumper -Mirror Caps The Installation:* - Disassembly: The FL5 has a heat vent on the hood that we disassemble so the film can be tucked underneath. - *Precision Cutting: Pre-cut PPF patterns were aligned to the Type R’s complex curves, with custom trimming around vents and intakes. Our patterns come stretched, meaning that the edges all go over the perimeter of the panels, which allow for the film to be tucked for a clean install. - Heat Sealing:Edges were gently heated to activate the adhesive, ensuring a durable bond. --- 3) Ceramic Pro Ion: The Ultimate Chemical Shield An application of Ceramic Pro Ion was applied to the entire exterior, including door jambs and hatch edges. This particular coating has a few major benefits, which include: 1. Unmatched Hydrophobic Properties -Water Repellency: Creates a "self-cleaning" effect, causing water to bead and roll off instantly, reducing water spots and mineral deposits. -Dirt & Grime Resistance: Repels dirt, mud, and road contaminants, making washes quicker and easier. 2. Extreme Durability Longevity: Lasts 7+ years with proper maintenance, outlasting many traditional ceramic coatings. 3. UV & Chemical Resistance: Shields against UV rays (prevents fading/oxidation) and harsh chemicals (bird droppings, road salts). 4. Enhanced Gloss & Depth Mirror-Like Shine: Amplifies the vehicle’s factory paint color, giving Boost Blue, black, or metallic finishes a "liquid" appearance. 5. Multi-Surface Protection Paint: Bonds to clear coat for scratch resistance and swirl mark mitigation. 6. Low Maintenance Easy Cleaning: Dirt slides off with a rinse, reducing the need for aggressive scrubbing On Wheels: Guards against brake dust buildup and heat from high-performance calipers. On Glass: Improves visibility in rain and reduces glare with a hydrophobic layer. Trim/Plastics: Prevents fading and cracking on exterior trim . **Glass Coating:** The windshield and side windows received a specialized glass-specific ceramic coating. - **Benefits:** - Improved visibility in rain. - Reduced glare and UV heat penetration. **Wheel Faces:** The Type R’s glossy black alloy wheels were coated to combat brake dust buildup. - **Benefits:** - Dust slides off with a rinse. - Protects against pitting from aggressive brake compounds. --- The Boost Blue Type R now boasts a liquid-wet gloss, with PPF edges invisible to the naked eye. “This car can handle track days, road trips, or daily commutes without losing its edge,” says Jesse. The 2025 Civic Type R is more than a car—it’s a statement. Humble Crew Auto Spa’s Ultimate Armor Package ensures that statement stays bold, bright, and protected. Whether you’re carving canyons or cruising downtown, this combination of science and artistry guarantees your Type R will age as gracefully as it performs. “It's more than just clean cars.” — Humble Crew Auto Spa

When it comes to safeguarding a vehicle as bold as the Ford Raptor, cutting corners isn’t an option. We recently undertook a meticulous full-body paint protection film (PPF) installation on a brand-new Raptor R. Our client opted for a bespoke install, which has our team disassemble panels to tuck the film underneath panels. This behind-the-scenes look reveals why their process—rooted in disassembly, precision tucking, and bespoke technique sets the standard for durability and aesthetics. Why Full-Body PPF? For Humble Car Spa, the answer is simple: -Preservation: Paint Protection Film is strong enough to take damage, meaning scratches, swirl marks, rock chips, and more. - Value Retention: The durability of PPF keeps the paint in pristine condition for years, retaining the value of the vehicle. - Peace of Mind: Engineered for owners who demand both performance and perfection. --- The Challenge: Seamless Protection for a Rugged Icon The Ford Raptor’s aggressive design, with its hood scoops, fender flares, and angular trim, demands a tailored approach to PPF. For Humble Car Spa, the goal was clear: deliver invisible protection that withstands both off-road adventures and everyday wear. --- Step 1: The Art of Disassembly Before applying a single sheet of film, the team meticulously removed critical components to ensure seamless edges: - Fenders, hood scoop vents, and bed trim were detached. - Tail lights, mirrors, and door handles were disassembled. Why Disassemble? “Exposed edges are the enemy of durability,” Jesse explains. By tucking PPF beneath trim and panels, the film avoids lifting or trapping dirt—a common issue with surface-level installations. --- Step 2: The Four-Corner Stretch Technique Applying PPF to curved surfaces like the Raptor’s hood requires advanced techniques. The team employed a four-corner stretch: 1. Locking edges: Securing the film at strategic points to evenly distribute tension. 2. Squeegeeing section-by-section: Methodically removing water and air bubbles to prevent “fingers” (excess material). 3. Checking the work before moving on: The team had to ensure no debris made it under the panel after we laid the film. “Stretching without stressing the film is key,” says Jesse. “It ensures longevity and a factory-smooth finish.” --- Step 3: Tackling Complex Areas Mirrors: - Aligning film around the Raptor’s angular mirrors required laser-focused precision. The team used custom templates to wrap edges without gaps, and seamed any areas that required more than one piece to lay down evenly. Roof: - The Raptor’s ridged roof posed a unique challenge. By working in small sections and heat-treating edges, the film conformed perfectly to the textured surface. Doors: - Door handles were masked with templates, allowing the PPF to extend past the edges for a tucked, invisible finish. Because the door handles were removed, the film can be laid in one uniform piece, providing both better durability and a cleaner finish. --- The Bespoke Difference Humble Car Spa’s “bespoke install” philosophy prioritizes two outcomes: 1. Aesthetics: No visible lines or edges, preserving the Raptor’s factory appearance. 2. Durability: Tucked seams resist lifting, even in harsh conditions. “Our client paid for the best—and that’s what we delivered,” Jesse emphasizes. Every component, from the wheel wells to the hood scoop, received full coverage. --- The Result: Rugged Meets Refined After nearly seven days of labor, the Raptor emerged with PPF that blended invisibly into its contours. Highlights included: - Seamless edges around tail lights and fenders. - heat-treated seams for maximum adhesion. - Full-body protection capable of resisting rock chips, scratches, and UV damage. --- Installing PPF on a Ford Raptor isn’t just a service—it’s a testament to Humble Car Spa’s dedication to automotive excellence. By marrying technical skill with relentless attention to detail, Jesse’s team ensures every vehicle, whether a rugged truck or a luxury sedan, receives protection worthy of its pedigree. Want to see this install up close? Watch our full PPF process on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZLA8zE3KzQ "It's more than just clean cars.”

For Porsche enthusiasts, few things are as satisfying as reviving a classic to its former glory. At Humble Crew Auto Spa, Jesse and his team recently took on a challenging project: restoring a 2013 Guards Red Porsche 911 (991.1) with a full Ultimate Armor treatment. The process, which involved removing outdated paint protection film (PPF), refreshing critical components, and applying cutting-edge protection, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship required to preserve automotive excellence. The Project: A Naturally Aspirated Passion The star of this restoration was a Guards Red 991.1 Porsche 911, a model Jesse specifically sought out for its naturally aspirated engine—a feature he prefers over the turbocharged 991.2 variant. The car arrived with aged PPF that had begun to yellow and degrade, particularly around edges and seams. The goal? Strip the old protection, address hidden wear, and reapply Humble Crew’s signature Ultimate Armor package for a flawless, long-lasting finish. Step 1: Removing Outdated PPF The first hurdle was safely removing the old PPF without damaging the factory paint—a critical task on any Porsche. Using industrial steamers, the team gently heated the film to loosen its adhesive. Why Steam? “If you try to rip PPF off cold, you risk peeling the paint with it,” Jesse explains. “Steam makes the adhesive pliable, which is especially important on high-value vehicles like this 911.” The process was labor-intensive, requiring patience to avoid stressing the paint or leaving residue. Step 2: Headlight Removal & Precision Tucking A key differentiator between the 991.1 and 991.2 models is the headlight design. On the 991.1, the headlights can be removed effortlessly using a specialized tool that unlocks a hidden mechanism. This allowed the team to tuck the new PPF seamlessly beneath the lights for an invisible edge. 991.2 Owners Take Note: Later models require bumper removal to access headlights, making PPF tucking far more complex. For the 991.1, however, the streamlined process ensured a factory-clean finish. Step 3: Wheel & Brake Detailing We did our "Wheels Off" ceramic coating package, which has us lift the vehicle, remove the wheels, clean both wheel and brake caliper, then apply our Ceramic Coating over it all. To clean wheel and caliper surfaces, we use CarPro Iron X, a chemical designed to melt away embedded brake dust without damaging the finish. Pro Tip: “Coating calipers not only enhances aesthetics but also guards against brake dust buildup,” says Jesse. Step 4: Redesigning PPF Coverage Porsche’s factory PPF typically stops at the hood’s natural crease. Humble Crew opted for a bolder approach, extending the film past the perimeter of the panel to tuck the film underneath. Why It Works: “Full coverage protects more of the paint and creates a cleaner visual line,” Jesse notes. Installing PPF this way also has its durability benefits; without exposed edges, PPF is far less likely to catch and lift, giving it greater longevity over time. Step 5: Badge Replacement The original Porsche badge, faded from years of exposure, was replaced using an OEM template to ensure perfect alignment. The Cost of Authenticity: “Porsche-branded templates are pricey,” Jesse admits, “but they guarantee the badge sits exactly where it should.”

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