For Porsche enthusiasts, few things are as satisfying as reviving a classic to its former glory. At Humble Crew Auto Spa, Jesse and his team recently took on a challenging project: restoring a 2013 Guards Red Porsche 911 (991.1) with a full Ultimate Armor treatment. The process, which involved removing outdated paint protection film (PPF), refreshing critical components, and applying cutting-edge protection, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship required to preserve automotive excellence.
The Project: A Naturally Aspirated Passion
The star of this restoration was a Guards Red 991.1 Porsche 911, a model Jesse specifically sought out for its naturally aspirated engine—a feature he prefers over the turbocharged 991.2 variant. The car arrived with aged PPF that had begun to yellow and degrade, particularly around edges and seams. The goal? Strip the old protection, address hidden wear, and reapply Humble Crew’s signature Ultimate Armor package for a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Step 1: Removing Outdated PPF
The first hurdle was safely removing the old PPF without damaging the factory paint—a critical task on any Porsche. Using industrial steamers, the team gently heated the film to loosen its adhesive.
Why Steam?
“If you try to rip PPF off cold, you risk peeling the paint with it,” Jesse explains. “Steam makes the adhesive pliable, which is especially important on high-value vehicles like this 911.”
The process was labor-intensive, requiring patience to avoid stressing the paint or leaving residue.
Step 2: Headlight Removal & Precision Tucking
A key differentiator between the 991.1 and 991.2 models is the headlight design. On the 991.1, the headlights can be removed effortlessly using a specialized tool that unlocks a hidden mechanism. This allowed the team to tuck the new PPF seamlessly beneath the lights for an invisible edge.
991.2 Owners Take Note:
Later models require bumper removal to access headlights, making PPF tucking far more complex. For the 991.1, however, the streamlined process ensured a factory-clean finish.
Step 3: Wheel & Brake Detailing
We did our "Wheels Off" ceramic coating package, which has us lift the vehicle, remove the wheels, clean both wheel and brake caliper, then apply our Ceramic Coating over it all. To clean wheel and caliper surfaces, we use CarPro Iron X, a chemical designed to melt away embedded brake dust without damaging the finish.
Pro Tip:
“Coating calipers not only enhances aesthetics but also guards against brake dust buildup,” says Jesse.
Step 4: Redesigning PPF Coverage
Porsche’s factory PPF typically stops at the hood’s natural crease. Humble Crew opted for a bolder approach, extending the film past the perimeter of the panel to tuck the film underneath.
Why It Works:
“Full coverage protects more of the paint and creates a cleaner visual line,” Jesse notes. Installing PPF this way also has its durability benefits; without exposed edges, PPF is far less likely to catch and lift, giving it greater longevity over time.
Step 5: Badge Replacement
The original Porsche badge, faded from years of exposure, was replaced using an OEM template to ensure perfect alignment.
The Cost of Authenticity:
“Porsche-branded templates are pricey,” Jesse admits, “but they guarantee the badge sits exactly where it should.”
Step 6: Paint Correction
The paint had become weathered over time, despite being taken care of its whole life. Swirl marks, embedded water spots, scratches, and even some light oxidation had permeated the finish of this vehicle. Guards Red in particular is a soft paint, meaning it scratches easily and requires a delicate hand to keep clean. We did a full two step paint correction to safely reduce the blemishes and restore a deep gloss and clarity prior to sealing in.
Step 7: Ceramic Coating
Once the paint was in great shape, we applied our 7 year Ceramic Coating onto the panels of the vehicle. Nxtzen coatings are specifically designed to combat pancreatin (the digestive enzyme found in bird poop that causes etching into your paint), bug staining, and hard water spotting. Aside from great chemical protection, Ceramic Coatings also provide a slick surface that causes treated surfaces to clean easily. That means that this 911 won't require as frequent of a detailing schedule to maintain a deep finish. One application of Nxtzen Elite is warrantied for 7 years, backed with a no-nonsense warranty that covers parts and labor.
The Result: A Legend Reborn
After a week of intensive labor, the 911 emerged transformed. The new PPF wrapped every curve without visible seams, the ceramic-coated wheels gleamed, and the revitalized badge completed the vintage-meets-modern aesthetic.
Jesse’s Take:
“This car went from weathered to head-turning. When it rolls into a show now, it looks like it just left Stuttgart.”
Why Ultimate Armor?
The Ultimate Armor package isn’t a quick fix—it’s a labor of love. Designed for Porsche owners who prioritize preservation, it combines PPF, ceramic coatings, and obsessive attention to detail.
Time Investment: 7+ days
Worth It? “Absolutely,” says Jesse. “These cars deserve to be protected as fiercely as they’re driven.”
Conclusion
For Jesse, a longtime Porsche Club of America (PCA) member, projects like this are more than just business—they’re a tribute to automotive heritage. Whether it’s a 911 or a daily driver, Humble Crew Auto Spa’s philosophy remains the same: precision, passion, and protection that lasts.
Ready to give your Porsche the Ultimate Armor treatment? Contact Humble Crew Auto Spa to schedule a consultation. Follow their journey on YouTube for more behind-the-scenes transformations.
“It's more than just clean cars.” – Humble Crew Auto Spa*
