I was going to post here - http://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/244398-protective-plastic-by-rear-doors/ - but my query wasn't directly related.

 

When I bought my car (Mk2 FL) I only had the protective vinyl only on one side, which looked stupid, so I removed it from the other. I'd prefer not to have to put any back on if I can get away with it, as it looks a bit naff, but will do so if it actually does anything.

 

Has anyone removed theirs? Any feedback from those who removed it some time ago? Any chips or paintwork damage in that area?

Protects against stone chips. Evidence frop mine was that that area gets a few hard hits. I wouldn't do without.

 

I'd be concerned as to why you only had it on one side. I had that for a while but that was following a bodged repair by my insurer.

Not sure why it was only on one side, but it's spotless paint condition wise. No accident damage on record, so could be for any number of scenarios. Had it a few weeks now and only noticed the film when it got dirty and the edge showed on one side. Initially, I was more concerned that the vinyl / film was hiding something, until I realised it was clear.

 

I'll look into replacing it on both sides then

Just replaced both mine, as they had bleached yellow/brown.

They're circa £13 each, actually supplied as 2 on one sheet, but 2 of the same side rather than a pair.

Just as well you're replacing both, as the design has been altered to include a section that runs just inside the door shut. Earlier stone foils don't have this and protect just the outer section of the lower quarter panel.

Just a side note, though it sounds like you'll be ok. Sometimes body shops paint straight over the stone foils, rather than remove and replace them. I don't want anyone accidentally remove their paint when removing the stone foils!

Edited 26 May, 201511 yr by KarlTDiCombi