AsiaOne reader wins 3M solar film, drives away worry-free
By Mary-Ann Soh
A lucky AsiaOne reader zipped away a happier person last Friday after his vehicle was fitted with a fresh application of 3M solar film protectors.
Mr Derek Thean, 34, ditched his old foggy window films for a new set of 3M films worth $1,700. He was selected as the winner of a 3M solar film contest, which ended on July 19, 2009.
The car enthusiast had submitted the winning entry to AsiaOne Motoring sharing a vivid account of his eight years of experience with solar films.
Watching his car being stripped down of the old film guard, installed five years ago, was sure relief for Derek as the retro-green fixture had started to bubble - a sign of age, and wear and tear.
But the growing lack of stickiness was the least of his concerns.
The previous film, which was of a metallised make, had been giving him difficulties whenever he drove towards the in-vehicle unit (IU) sensor at car parks with electronic parking system (EPS).
The metal properties in the film interfered with the magnetic sensors on the vehicle's IU and makes detection of the CashCard difficult and frustrating.
Derek told AsiaOne that the metallic coating has several flaws. He said: "Sometimes the IU doesn't work unless you drive closer to the parking sensor."
He also added that "heat is easily conducted and retained in the car due to the metallic properties", often leaving his black BMW like a furnace after being in the sun for two to three hours.
With the newly installed non-metallic 3M solar film, Derek has a peace of mind and looks forward to the protection that 3M solar films will provide.
He said: "3M has a reputation of having good quality products, I wouldn't worry about getting skin cancer and I have trust in their products."
Asked if he had any advice for fellow car pals when choosing the solar films for their cars, the veteran solar film user said: "If you want a peace of mind, go for renowned brands.
"They have proper specifications and are guaranteed by the manufacturer."
Using a patented multi-layered optical technology, 3M films have mico-thin optical film layers which help to reflect infrared and UV rays while still allowing light to pass through, effectively helping the car to cool down faster.
For Derek, it also means he'll be breezing past car parks without worrying about being stuck at the barriers.
