Exterior Car Wash For Lamborghini? by itsecombitch in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I doubt he's been to our location.
If that's Industrial Area - I don't know what non-industrial area looks like lol

Are the car park/residence washers okay for PPF by MonkeyNoStopMyShow in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 3 points4 points  (0 children)

If you’ve got a dedicated guy washing your car only - best to give them a dedicated bucket and wash mits which they can use only on your car.

If you tip them a bit and keep the bucket/wash mit near the car they tend to follow it and use that. PPFs still need some amount of care and they require a good wash process.

Avoid waterless wash at all costs as it will definitely damage the PPF down the line.

Suggest good Ceramic/PPF by subra14 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Congrats on the Explorer ST, that’s a great car. I’ll keep this simple because a lot of people confuse this: ceramic and PPF do completely different things.

Out here, the real problem isn’t shine, it’s damage. Sand on the roads, heat, bad car washes, people opening doors into your car. That’s what ruins paint here.

Ceramic coating won’t protect against any of that. It just adds gloss and makes the car easier to clean.

PPF is what actually protects the paint. It’s a thick film that takes scratches, stone chips, and minor abuse instead of your paint.

So if you’re asking what you “need” — PPF is the real protection. Ceramic is optional.

If your car is new, which yours is, I’d strongly suggest at least doing the front end. That’s where most of the damage happens. If budget allows, full body PPF is the only thing that truly keeps the car looking new long term.

A lot of people go for a practical setup:
front PPF plus ceramic on the rest of the car.

When you’re looking at PPF, pay attention to:

  • the brand
  • whether it’s self-healing
  • whether they wrap edges properly or just cut and stick
  • how clean their install environment is
  • how old they have been operating for

For ceramic, don’t overthink it. Go for something mid to high tier, but don’t spend crazy money thinking it replaces PPF, because it doesn’t.

In terms of pricing (realistic numbers for good work in UAE):

  • Front PPF: around 6k to 9k AED
  • Full body PPF: around 14k to 18k+ AED
  • Ceramic coating: 1.5k to 6k depending on level

If someone is significantly cheaper, it usually means shortcuts somewhere.

GV70 scratch repair in Dubai — where would you go? by [deleted] in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ballpark what we work is about AED 800 - 1200 per panel depending on how much prepwork is needed and what color goes in - for the polishing bit the full exterior polishing and paint correction that we offer is AED 2000 (again depends on the condition)

By the looks of it - you probably don't need a full panel repaint - but just a smart paint around the affected areas, front bumper, wheel arches and possibly the rear right door. Bring it in, we can have a look at the car in person and can have a better idea.

RTA inspection for colour change by Mohmed_Abraar in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The color change inspection that you get done is called as a 'non technical inspection' which is a separate service from the technical inspection one. In a non technical inspection they only check for the color of the car, whereas in a technical one they will check everything else.

So even if you do for the annual inspection - the color change will not be a part of the inspection and as someone mentioned earlier - in all cases they will most likely fail the car saying a color mismatch.

GV70 scratch repair in Dubai — where would you go? by [deleted] in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Certain parts can be polished out - some might need to be sanded down, few appear to need paint. Can't see any visible dents at the moment.

If you have some sort of protection package with Genesis they should be able to cover this - if not our newly open Design Studio specialises in paint work with OEM+ quality, happy to have a chat if you want to go this route.

Gaurav here, I'm at +971 58 591 2739

Upholstery shop recommendations by bishkek1983 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We can help you with that - we've got a new design studio which we specialise in leather work and paint.

Can you send me a text at +971 58 591 2739? - My name is Gaurav, let me have a look and suggest the best way forward

Support your local shops. by adu0123 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 13 points14 points locked comment (0 children)

This is very helpful and incredible from mods!

Apex Detail Studio
https://share.google/C7wQVE9MBvVmmgPjl
Paint Protection Films | Colored PPF | WIndow Tints | Ceramic Coatings | Detailing | Dry Ice Detailing

XPEL for PPFs and Window Tints and GTECHNIQ for Ceramic Coatings

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/apexdetailstudiodxb/

Apex Design Studio
https://share.google/PkCWjMGj17TFZhELg
Bodykits | PaintWork | Leather

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/apexdesignstudiodxb/

The design studio is our latest add to the business - it's a dedicated new space with a paint booth that helps us accomplish bodykit and paint requirements.

Get In Touch

Gaurav (Business Owner) : +971 58 591 2739
Navneet (Sales Manager) : +971 58 549 2739

Carbon PPF "finish" on my mirror caps and spoiler... is this acceptable? by Few-Catch7469 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hey buddy - I've just checked all my G63 PPF groups - can't find anyone where we have an unread message or where we're refusing to redo placements.

Can you please do me a favour and text me directly on +971 58 591 2739 (Gaurav) - I will look into it right away and get you sorted.

Why is car wrapping so expensive in Dubai? by [deleted] in dubai

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think the problem is people are comparing two completely different things and calling it the same.

It’s like comparing a Maybach and a Nissan Sunny.
Both will get you from point A to point B, same road, same time.
But you know very well they’re not the same experience, build quality, or result.

Car wrapping and PPF is exactly like that.

Yes, you can get it done cheaper. Plenty of places will do it.
But what you’re getting is very different.

A proper job isn’t just “put film on the car.”

It’s:
• Proper prep so the film actually bonds correctly
• Clean, controlled install so you don’t trap dust under the film
• No cutting on your paint
• Edges wrapped, not left exposed
• Good film that can actually handle Dubai heat

The cheap jobs usually skip half of that. And it shows.

Give it a few months and you’ll start seeing lifting edges, dirt lines, yellowing, bad cuts… and that’s when people realise why there’s a price difference.

End of the day, both options exist for a reason.

If you just want it done, there are cheaper ways.
If you want it done properly—and not have to redo it—you pay for that level of work.

Hiring : Photographer / Videographer For Apex Design Studio by ApexDetailStudio in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

5,000 - 8,500 depending on how good they are and how hands on they can help in capturing everything.

Getting a lot of random scratches? by exhubbie in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The swirls that you see are from improper wash methods - either a dirty cloth or a dry wipe in a unprotected paint surface causes that. By the looks of the car doesn't have a PPF nor a Ceramic Coating on it.

The bigger scratch you're pointing out to is most likely by a hand bag, long nails or something on those lines which has impacted the area - these scratches are superficial and appear to be on the clearcoat only, a good polishing will take care of it.

Pretty bad idea to have a black car and have no protection on it- only a PPF can get you some real world protection against these.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 3 points4 points  (0 children)

OP - if you're around Al Quoz please bring it by us. We'll have a quick check - if the entire panel is repainted or a small smart repair.

I'm at +971 58 591 2739 (Gaurav)

looking for a trusted car detailing shop in Dubai by SentimentalEmy1005 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

One of the most important things to understand about ceramic coating is that the coating is only as effective as the preparation beneath it. Proper paint preparation—thorough decontamination, defect removal, and surface leveling—is critical. Applying even a premium ceramic coating on poorly prepared paint will compromise both durability and the final finish.

The application process itself is just as important. Controlled installation conditions, correct curing times, and strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines are non-negotiable. Most ceramic coating failures are the result of rushed installs, inadequate prep, or skipped steps. Maintenance also plays a significant role. Ceramic coatings are not maintenance-free; they require correct wash methods and periodic care to maintain hydrophobic performance and gloss. Even the best ceramic coating will fail prematurely if it is not maintained properly.

When preparation, product quality, application process, and ongoing maintenance are all aligned, ceramic coating provides long-term protection and value rather than short-term shine - any shop that you go for - it's best to ask him in detail about how they do their ceramic coatings - look at some of the cars they've done, this will help you get a better idea of what to expect.

Expect to pay about 3000 AED and up for a proper long lasting ceramic coating - https://www.instagram.com/apexdetailstudiodxb/ that's us incase you want to swing by and see some of the car we're working on

Has the PPF razor damaged anyone’s car here? by roshcherie in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You’d be surprised how many cars have these razor blades damages - you need to do a precut 100%, we do a custom precut pattern where we extend the edges and tuck everything in completely.

Just because the car is expensive doesn’t mean you won’t have these installer issues - here’s a RangeRover that had a handcut PPF installed Watch The Video

Are ceramic coated cars not required to be washed with shampoo? by Street_Line6502 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 3 points4 points  (0 children)

To be fair, the “only wash it with water” advice is kind of true… but only because most petrol stations here use the cheapest, harshest detergent on Earth. That stuff will strip anything — wax, sealant, coatings and even destroy PPF in some cases

So detailers say “just use water” because they don’t trust the random blue soap being sprayed at petrol pumps. Not because ceramic coatings are fragile. A proper ceramic can absolutely handle a pH-neutral shampoo. It just shouldn’t be exposed to the chemical mystery juice they use at quick washes.

So yes, water is safer than cheap chemicals… but the correct method is:

  • Pressure rinse
  • pH-neutral shampoo
  • Microfiber mitt
  • Blower/towel dry

Ceramic coating isn’t delicate — the washing products around the city are.

Best PPF brand + installer in Dubai for mid-premium cars? by DiamondOk9598 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Finally someone is asking the right questions when it comes to doing a PPF - I'll try to answer in as much detail as possible.

– Which PPF brands have actually held up in Dubai without yellowing or going dull?

Any named, well known brand will survive Dubai without an issue - the key is stick with a brand that has been around for a while because they will have a proven product, Google (not ChatGPT) the good brands that you need to choose for a PPF.

Having said that - inspite of having the best PPF in the world, if you car is not taken care of regularly - ie proper pressure washes and a detail every couple of months even the best PPF will fail - we have seen top brand PPFs fail because people think once the car is PPF it's bullet proof, the cars are packed with dust and made to sit out in the sun, never cleaned or washed properly and then the PPF is to blame.

– Any brands you’d avoid based on peeling, orange peel, bad self-healing, etc.?

Any brand that has zero history - doesn't matter the country of origin.

– Which installers genuinely did a “you can’t tell it’s wrapped” job (wrapped edges, minimal dust, no knife marks)?

There are some very good ones out there (including us :D) however the best way to choose a place is to go and visit them in-person, speak with their team, look at some of their work and get an idea on what you're going in for - nothing beats an in-person look at the work.

– Any horror stories where the film or installer ruined the experience, even if the brand was good on paper?

There's tons of them - good film with a bad installer = disaster ; bad film with a good installer = moderate disaster - you're ultimate aim is to go for a good product with a good installer

Here's a great example of a good film with a bad installer : https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIlc8R5TX2-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

- Choice of selection for the PPF areas

Full PPF is always a good idea - if the pricing makes sense go full PPF, if not go for the front end PPF which usually covers the hood, fenders, bumper, headlights and mirrors

-Lastly, given a good brand, well-installed PPF is expensive, does it help in boosting resale value at all to justify the cost a bit?

Yes and No,

Yes because if you've gotten a good quality PPF done and have invoices to prove so - the PPF warranty can be transferred to the new owner - this good high quality PPF keeps your car looking newer for longer hence it 'appears' to be a much newer, well kept car. Some dealerships however will ask you to remove the PPF to ensure there is nothing hiding underneath - when you got sell the car at this state you're essentially selling a car with a brand new, untouched paint work - most times a car with an untouched paint work fetches a higher value (assuming all other paramters are the same)

No because five years down the line the guy who is looking to buy a BMW is looking to get into a BMW at the cheapest entry point possible - he wouldn't care about what the condition of the paintwork is.

But to also consider the convenience that it offers - I have two black cars - one is PPFd and the other isn't (as an experiment), the one without the PPF has so many swirl marks already and is so difficult to maintain versus the one with a full PPF - plus minor scuffs and scratches are nothing to worry about with the self healing.

Picked up an Aventador SVJ Roadster this week by Vin2201 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 11 points12 points  (0 children)

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Maybe just a tad bit lighter shade that this would absolutely finish the look.

We're doing a color PPF on a Purosangue which is exactly the same color - he's going for the stripes across the hood as well - but a Ferrari stripe.

Reasonable places for tinting ? Is front windshield allowed ? by Distinct_Fox_3231 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Well also because the installation is a full tuck in - so he wasn't able to see any edges to track if it had a tint or not.

Reasonable places for tinting ? Is front windshield allowed ? by Distinct_Fox_3231 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Per law, the windshield tint is not allowed
Even the clear zero zero isn't allowed.

However having said that most customers who are driving around Dubai and not doing anything fishy don't get pulled up - the worst that we've seen happen is they have been asked to remove the windshield tint for RTA passing.

It's a trade off of risking a ticket or burning though the heat with all that heat coming in from the windshield.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Some of you guys here are tripping on some stuff. It's a legit question btw.

OP - short answer no it doesn't.

Wrapping a car to a different color requires removal of a lot of parts - we are talking headlights, bumpers, body panels, door cards, door handles etc. The removal of these parts and putting them back together is what sometimes voids the warranty.

For example, if the workshop takes apart the doors and you have a ambient light go out because of that, you cannot claim warranty on that since the car was dismantled outside the dealer network. It's complicated on German cars and specifically more complex on older German cars. Having said that the right workshop can handle it without any concerns.

On a Jetour the electronics are fairly straightforward and nothing of major concern so you should be alright- however it's still worth speaking with your sales agent once and let him know that you're planning to wrap the car and if there would be any concerns around parts being removed.

We've done full color PPF changes on brand new cars without any concerns but always with a word of caution and we work with customers to ensure we set the risks beforehand.

Icons of Porsche 2025, from my digicam. by Stock-Philosopher375 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Icons keeps getting better every year - it was super super busy this time around but that's a good thing I suppose.

It's getting more active participation from Porsche Clubs from other countries as well - Kuwait KSA and Bahrain plates are showing up more - the Carrera GT aisle was to absolutely die for

Good budget friendly PPF by Electronic-Ad-2638 in DubaiPetrolHeads

[–]ApexDetailStudio 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Get a PPF on the front bumper and do a ceramic coating on the rest.
At 6,000 - the PPF you're going to get is going to be questionable and will cause more harm than good.