Colored and matte PPF: options, and how it compares to a vinyl wrap
Short answer
Film comes in gloss, matte, gloss black and matte black, and matte can cover the whole car or just accents. For color changes, STEK has its own colored film line, and APC can also offer Ceramic Pro Shift colors, which carry a 12-year warranty. Compared with a vinyl wrap, PPF is thicker, self-healing and actually protects the paint.
Quick facts
| Finishes | Gloss, matte, gloss black, matte black |
|---|---|
| Matte coverage | Full vehicle or accent pieces |
| Colored film options | STEK colored line, Ceramic Pro Shift |
| Ceramic Pro Shift warranty | 12 years |
What can matte film do?
Matte film gives gloss paint a satin, flat look. It can cover the whole car or just accent pieces like the roof, mirrors or hood. Gloss black and matte black are also options for accents.
What colored film is available?
STEK has its own colored, or fashion, film line. APC can also offer Ceramic Pro Shift colors, which carry a 12-year warranty.
How is colored PPF different from a vinyl wrap?
Both change the color of your car. A vinyl wrap is mainly about looks. Colored PPF is thicker, self-healing and protective, so it changes the color and guards the paint underneath at the same time.
How APC Auto Spa does it
APC installs matte, black and colored film, from accent pieces to full vehicles. See APC's colored PPF page for colors and options.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I make a gloss car matte with film?
- Yes. Matte film can cover the full vehicle or just accents.
- Does colored film protect like clear film?
- Colored PPF is protective and self-healing, unlike a vinyl wrap.
- What's the warranty on colored film?
- Ceramic Pro Shift carries a 12-year warranty. Ask APC about the warranty for other colored films.
Reviewed by Heather Humphrey, co-owner of APC Auto Spa ยท Last updated October 2026
Heather leads customer education and training at APC's Tukwila and Monroe shops.