How to find your car's exact trim (so your PPF kit fits)

Five quick ways to find your vehicle's model year and trim level, including decoding your VIN, and why it matters for a pre-cut paint protection film kit.

AP Motor Co · Updated October 11, 2026 · 2 min read

A pre-cut PPF kit is cut for a specific range of model years and trims, because bumpers, grilles and sensor layouts change between them. Here's how to find exactly what you drive.

1. Check the badges

Most cars show the trim on the trunk lid, liftgate or tailgate, and sometimes on the front fenders: "XLT", "TRD Off-Road", "Sport", "Limited". This is the fastest check, but badges can be removed or swapped, so confirm with one of the methods below if your car came from a previous owner.

2. Decode your VIN

Your VIN (vehicle identification number) is 17 characters long. You'll find it:

On the dashboard, visible through the bottom of the windshield on the driver's side
On a sticker in the driver's door jamb
On your registration and insurance card

Enter it in the VIN lookup on our home page and we'll show you the matching vehicle. The VIN reliably gives the model year, make and model. Trim isn't always included, so check it against your badges or paperwork.

Add your VIN when you choose your kit, too. We use it to double-check fitment before we cut.

3. Look at your paperwork

The original window sticker, your purchase contract and the dealer's invoice all list the trim. Many insurance cards and registrations do as well.

4. Check the owner's manual or app

Some manufacturers' apps and online owner portals show the full build details for your VIN, including trim and option packages.

5. Ask a dealer

Any dealer for your brand can look up your VIN and tell you the trim and options.

Why option packages can matter

Sometimes two cars with the same trim name have different front ends because of a package: off-road bumpers, sport appearance packages, or fender flares on trucks. When that changes the shape of a panel, we list it as its own kit, for example "XLT with fender flares". If you see a package listed on your kit page, check whether your car has it.

Still not sure?

Send us your VIN through the contact page and we'll confirm the right kit before you order. And with our Perfect-Fit Guarantee, if you send a photo of the front of your car with your order and a piece doesn't fit, we re-cut it free.