I've got the GM bra. I also only use it for long trips. I have not seen any evidence of fading or rubbing of the paint, but I have only used it a few times so far, and I don't use it in the rain.

It is a bit of a chore to put it on the first time, especially since it requires replacing several of the trim plugs in the wheel wells with snap heads. Putting it on the car will require either squatting in an awkward position or sitting/lying down on the ground to reach under the front bumper to place the hooks there, so you may want to keep a towel in the trunk to keep your clothes clean.

I have found that after putting it on and taking it off a few times, it has become a lot easier, and I have gotten pretty good at doing it quickly. The hardest part is the two small triangular pieces which go on the hood, to the outside of the headlights. These are very tight fitting and require a bit of effort to get them inserted between the hood and the headlight. But I figure the tight fit is a good thing, as less movement means less wear on the paint.

PS - if you want to search for more info on it, try searching for "front end cover" ,which I think is its real name.

 

Great information, exactly what I was looking for, thank you. One more thing, I'm guessing it doesn't require any tools to install? Just popping out the old snaps?

 

I think you might need a screw driver to attach the new snaps, not 100% sure as I installed it about 6 months ago. But I don't recall any special tools beyond what you would find in a basic tool kit.

 

I thought about it originally, but decided not to order it. I just don't like the looks of it on the car. To me it just hides to much of the front. However on a trip, it would be beneficial in regards to shielding rocks. I just wouldn't have the patience to take it on and off.

 

satisfied SolLusion

I have had the GM bra since the beginning. I find that it is probably the best one I have ever had for fit and actual protection. It is a little cumbersome at first to put on and remove but the protection is well worth the effort. I have used mine exensively and no harm to the paint rain or shine.

Lp

 

I had mine since the car was new. I only use it when I'm going a distance. Don't need it for city driving. Putting in the snaps takes a phillips screwdriver. You don't even have to take off the front wheels. The directions are vague so the top snap is up on top not in the wheel well. it fits nice and tight and I haven't found any wear marks.:brentil:

 

I know this is bringing back an almost year question (and I know should have gotten a clear bra 19 months ago), but..... I have a few small rock chips and don't want a bunch more. I'm taking off on a 2,500 mile road trip (up the Northern California and Oregon coast) so I decided to get some protection with the GM Bra. I'm planning on using it only for "trips".
Any new "tips” or problems using this type of front end cover?

Click to enlarge

 

I have had the GM bra for a while but have been reluctant to put it on. I had just washed my car and drove about a mile down the road to pick something up and the love bugs where all over my front end. So I decided to break down and put the bra on. I have only had it on a little over a week. Installation took about a half hour. Once I realized the the top snaps are not in the wheel well but between the top of the front bumper and hood. Luckily my Son was helping me out and pointed that out to me. Going from the directions it points to you the top of the wheel well. I have attached a picture of what it looks like installed.

 

Thanks guys and girls, just ordered one tonight.

 

My original bra - with UGLY license plate cutout - was irrevocably damaged by road debris last April. I finally purchased a replacement - from a local car dealer with an eBay store! Got it for $91.50 + tax, and picked it up, so no delivery charge.

 

Wax, wax, wax.

Three tips of what to do prior to putting the bra on the car.
If time allows, put a few good coats on.
Inspect the bra, even being new, for anything stuck in the white padding.
The bar is a tight fit and doesn't inflate at speeds.
The instructions talk about possible heat issues in the motor due to the screen restricting air flow. In the dead of the summer I noticed this first hand. Just keep an eye on the temps during summer months.

 

Thanks for the advice Tweety. I just got back from a marathon drive from Lower Alabama to D.C. and back and the temps stayed around 192. I was worried about the airflow being restricted, so I kept cycling through the DIC during the drive.

 

Don't use anything like Armor-all, or such, on the bra. It will destroy your cars paint underneath.
I actually would prefer my bra to come from Victoria's Secret, diamond studded. Nothing but the best. There is no wonder needed here.:lol:

 

I actually would prefer my bra to come from Victoria's Secret, diamond studded. Nothing but the best. There is no wonder needed here.:lol:

Who did not know this was coming next .... :lol:

 

I have one of these bra's from GM. A customer of mine works for the General and was generous enough to pass it along. Depending on what happens with my Solstice (whether it's fixed or totalled) I may sell it.

I never did install it on my Mysterious, so its brand new still in packaging from G.M.

If I sell it, it won't be for much since it was given to me, I'll keep you guys updated.

 

I was looking for some protection as well. Noticed the small pits in the front bumper cover within a few weeks of purchase of DarkSol. Actually considered the GM bra. Went with the VentureShield Clear Bra on the front bumper cover, front of hood, as well as the headlights, directionals and front of mirrors. The front bumper cover clear bra actually smoothed over the original pits and improved the look. Next new car or finish job, I will put on the shield immediately.

 

Installed the FEC in the winter. I just keep an eye on the bonnet part -keeping water out.
I have always liked front end covers on low Sports Touring cars if they were available.
When I wash the car, I pull off the upper bonnet part and lower the main front so water will not be kept, heat and ruin the paint.
Another great feature is if someone 'touches your front end' in a parking lot- No paint damage. I always park as far awya as I can, but sometimes---

 

I got the Solstice bra for my trip back to the National Meet last June. It fits perfectly and is not difficult to install or remove. However, it consists of four pieces. The large main part over the bumper cover/grill/driving lights area. Two more pieces cover a small area between the headlights and wheel wells, and another 4" or 5" strip goes across the front of the hood. I put the main part on my Mysterious for the drive to Nashville, but left the hood and fender pieces off. I found that dust will filter down between the bra and the paint and even after only a day or two will scuff or leave light scratches in the paint. And that is even when I would dust my car a couple times a day.

I have left the main part of the bra on permanently. I like the look - black on black.

 

I love mine. I use it mainly for winter driving and long trips. So far no
problems.