When buying a new car, you may notice a plastic film on the CarPlay infotainment screen. While it looks like a screen protector, it is often only meant for shipping protection. A viral mechanic TikTok video warns that leaving this film on can cause it to "bake on" and damage the screen, costing thousands in repairs.

However, not all films are the same. Some manufacturers apply permanent anti-glare or fingerprint-resistant coatings that can look removable. Removing these by mistake can ruin the display, as seen with a Reddit user who removed factory plastic from a 2019 Mazda 3, leaving a patchy mess after stripping an anti-glare coating.

Car manufacturers do not provide a universal rule for every infotainment display. The safest approach is to check for pull tabs, printed warnings, or uplifted corners before peeling. If unsure, consult the vehicle manual or contact a dealer to avoid damaging special coatings designed to reduce glare or improve visibility.