Matte Today, Gloss Tomorrow, Still Don’t Touch The Cars
About this episode
John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield joins the In-Wheel Time crew for a lively discussion on car detailing, protection, and the unique culture surrounding automotive enthusiasts. The episode features insights on the latest trends in paint protection films and wraps, including the benefits of Expel Stealth for achieving a matte look without the downsides of traditional matte paint. Don Armstrong reviews the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness, highlighting its off-road capabilities and unique interior features. The episode is filled with humor and camaraderie, making it a fun listen for car lovers.
Sun on the shop floor, cutters snapping, and a Ford GT gleaming under fresh film—this one is for people who love cars and want them to last. We set up at Gulf Coast Auto Shield with owner John Gray to explore how a protection-first mindset turned a corner-bay detailing gig into three thriving Houston locations. The throughline is simple and powerful: do clean work, protect value, and treat every client like the next referral.
John walks us through today’s projects, including a Ferrari F12 getting full stealth paint protection film for a matte finish without the headaches of fragile factory matte paint. We compare vinyl color wraps to newer color PPF options, breaking down heat resistance, UV durability, and why warranties matter in Texas sun. You’ll hear how stealth PPF can transform gloss to satin, stay reversible, and still guard against chips and rash—plus how ceramic coatings, nano-ceramic tint, windshield protection, and discrete radar/laser installs complete a smart, long-term protection plan.
Car culture ties it all together. From the stereo-shop days that sparked an entire client network to cruise-ins where owners trade ideas on wheels and film, relationships keep the scene alive. We also hit the week’s market note: GM easing no-flip rules for most Corvettes while keeping tight reins on the ZR1 to curb speculation. Then we review the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness, an off-road-leaning small SUV with copper accents, a big integrated screen, respectable MPG, and room for improvement in power and ground clearance—plus straight talk on pricing and segment rivals.
If you’re deciding between wraps and PPF, wondering how to keep a new finish flawless, or just love a good shop tour with serious hardware, you’ll feel at home. Subscribe, share with a friend who babies their paint, and leave a review telling us: matte or gloss for your next build?
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The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
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Audi
"...the Sewell Audi. And then we have this one and then we have a West Houston store..."
Audi is another luxury car brand from Germany, known for making stylish and high-tech vehicles. They produce a range of cars, from sedans to SUVs.
Audi is a German automobile manufacturer that designs, engineers, produces, markets, and distributes luxury vehicles. The brand is known for its advanced technology and performance-oriented models.
paint protection film
"And, you know, any sort of protection from the standpoint of paint protection film, coatings, window tent and built in radar detector, laser jammers,..."
Paint protection film is a special clear layer that you put on a car's paint to keep it safe from scratches and damage. It helps the car look new for a longer time.
Paint protection film is a clear, durable material applied to a vehicle's exterior to protect the paint from scratches, chips, and environmental damage. It's often used by car enthusiasts to maintain the appearance of their vehicles.
radar detector
"...window tint and built in radar detector, laser jammers,..."
A radar detector is a gadget that helps drivers know when police are using radar to check how fast they're going. It can warn you to slow down before you get a ticket.
A radar detector is a device that detects radar signals used by law enforcement to measure vehicle speed. It alerts drivers to the presence of speed traps, helping them avoid speeding tickets.
laser jammer
"...built in radar detector, laser jammers,..."
A laser jammer is a device that helps drivers avoid getting caught for speeding by confusing the police's speed detection equipment. It makes it harder for them to get an accurate reading of how fast you're going.
A laser jammer is a device that prevents police laser speed guns from accurately measuring a vehicle's speed. It works by sending out signals that confuse the laser, making it difficult for law enforcement to obtain a speed reading.
window tint
"...coatings, window tint and built in radar detector, laser jammers,..."
Window tint is a dark film that you put on car windows to make it harder for people to see inside. It also helps keep the car cooler on sunny days.
Window tint refers to a thin film applied to the windows of a vehicle to reduce glare, heat, and UV rays from the sun. It can enhance privacy and improve the overall comfort of the car's interior.
Chevrolet Corvettes
"...I worked for Chevrolet dealership. It was all enamored by Corvettes, bought a Corvette..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car made by Chevrolet. It's known for being fast and stylish, and many people love to drive it.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines. It has a long history and is often associated with American automotive culture.
restomod
"But it's mainly classics, customs, restomods, that sort of thing."
Restomods are old cars that have been updated with new technology and parts to make them better to drive while keeping their classic look.
A restomod is a classic car that has been restored and modified with modern components and technology. This approach combines the nostalgic aesthetics of vintage vehicles with the performance and reliability of contemporary parts.
Ford Mustang GT500
"I did sell my GT500. And I miss that car every day."
The Ford Mustang GT500 is a very fast and powerful version of the Ford Mustang sports car. It's known for its impressive speed and performance, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Ford Mustang GT500 is a high-performance variant of the Mustang, known for its powerful engine and sporty features. It represents the pinnacle of Mustang performance and has a strong following among car enthusiasts.
Shelby GT500
"Yep, our car is here. I did sell my GT500. And I miss that car every day."
The Shelby GT500 is a super-fast version of a popular car called the Mustang. It's built for speed and excitement, making it a favorite among people who love powerful cars.
The Shelby GT500 is a high-performance version of the Ford Mustang, known for its powerful engine and sporty design. It represents the pinnacle of Mustang performance and is often discussed among car enthusiasts for its speed and handling.
Nissan GT-R
"Right now that GTR right there is interesting. That car is a..."
The Nissan GT-R is a very fast sports car that uses a lot of technology to perform well. It's known for being able to handle corners and go really fast on the track.
The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and powerful turbocharged engine. It has a strong motorsport heritage and is often praised for its handling and speed.
Ferrari F12
"... know, I didn't drive it very hard. But we have a Ferrari F12 back there that we're doing a lot of work on doin..."
Expel
"That's what it's called? Stealth? Expel Stealth, yeah."
Expel is a company that makes special films to protect car paint from scratches and damage. Many car lovers use their products to keep their cars looking new.
Expel is a company known for its high-quality paint protection films and coatings that help protect vehicles from scratches, chips, and other damage. Their products are popular among car enthusiasts looking to maintain the appearance of their vehicles.
McIntosh
"...that's the only car I've ever seen with a stock Macintosh head unit for the stereo. Really? Yes. It legit has a Macintosh stereo in it."
McIntosh is a brand that makes very high-quality audio systems. Their equipment is often used in expensive cars to provide great sound quality.
McIntosh is a high-end audio equipment manufacturer known for producing premium audio systems, often found in luxury cars and home audio setups.
Porsche 911 GT3
"...er cars. He's got McLaren, not McLaren, but a 911 GT3, I believe. He's got a Aston Martin."
Ferrari 296
"And we've had a 296. There are 296 in the back."
The Ferrari 296 is a fast sports car that uses both a traditional engine and an electric motor to go faster and use less fuel. It's part of Ferrari's new line of cars that are more environmentally friendly.
The Ferrari 296 is a hybrid sports car that combines a V6 engine with an electric motor for enhanced performance and efficiency. It represents Ferrari's shift towards electrification while maintaining their high-performance standards.
matte paint
"They want to change the look of their car. Matte paint is very, very expensive."
Matte paint is a special kind of car paint that doesn't shine like regular paint, making it look different and unique.
Matte paint is a type of automotive finish that has a non-reflective surface, giving it a unique look but often requiring more maintenance than glossy finishes.
$10,000 to $12,000
"You know, it depends on what model you're buying, but it can run $10,000, $12,000."
This means that changing a car's paint to a matte finish can be very expensive, costing between ten to twelve thousand dollars.
This price range indicates the high cost associated with applying matte paint to a vehicle, reflecting the labor and materials involved.
vinyl wraps
"But, you know, you got these vinyl wraps and color change that people traditionally use to cut change colors on a car."
Vinyl wraps are like stickers for cars that change their color. They can be taken off later if you want to change the look again.
Vinyl wraps are a type of adhesive film that can be applied to a vehicle's exterior to change its color or finish without a permanent paint job. They are popular for customization because they can be removed or changed easily.
Cybertruck
"These cyber trucks are... I would say that they're interesting. But now you see them all over the place."
The Cybertruck is a unique electric truck made by Tesla. It has a very different look compared to regular trucks and is designed to be tough and high-tech.
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup truck known for its distinctive angular design and durable exoskeleton. It aims to combine utility with advanced technology, including electric powertrains and autonomous features.
No Flip Rule
"...So GM ends the Corvette No Flip Rule for most of the Corvette models..."
The No Flip Rule is a rule that stops people from quickly selling their new cars for a profit. It helps keep the cars with real fans instead of flippers who just want to make money.
The No Flip Rule refers to a policy that prevents buyers from reselling certain vehicles within a specified time frame, typically to discourage speculation and ensure that cars are sold to genuine enthusiasts.
Chevrolet Corvette Eray
"for 2025 and 2026. The Corvette E-Ray and the Z06 models, the vehicles delivered by November 5th of 2026,"
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is a new type of sports car that uses both gas and electricity to go fast. It's designed to be powerful while also being a bit better for the environment.
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is a hybrid version of the iconic Corvette sports car, combining traditional V8 power with electric motors for improved performance and efficiency. It represents a significant step in Corvette's evolution, blending performance with sustainability.
MSRP
"...for $50 to $100,000 above the MSRP in the early days, which is a far cry from the current situation."
MSRP means the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a car. It's like a starting point for how much a car costs, but the actual price can be higher or lower depending on various factors.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle. It serves as a baseline for pricing but can vary based on demand and market conditions.
Subaru Forester
"...Time now for this hour's car review. I had a chance to drive the 2025 Subaru Forester."
The Subaru Forester is a type of SUV that is great for families and people who like outdoor activities. The 2025 version probably has new features to make it even better.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and practicality, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts and families. The 2025 model likely includes updated features and technology, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market.
trim level
"It's an option, but it comes with this particular trim level."
A trim level is like a version of a car that has different features. For example, one version might have more technology or nicer materials than another.
A trim level refers to a specific version of a car model that comes with a particular set of features and options. Different trim levels can offer varying levels of luxury, technology, and performance.
built-in screen
"The built in dash part of the screen really works for me."
A built-in screen is a display that is part of the car's dashboard. It's not something you can take out; it's designed to look nice and work well with the car's interior.
A built-in screen refers to a display that is integrated into the car's dashboard rather than being a separate, removable unit. This design often enhances the aesthetics and functionality of the interior.
cabin
"...copper headlights throughout the cabin."
The cabin is the inside part of the car where people sit. It's where you find the seats and the dashboard with all the controls.
The cabin of a car refers to the interior space where passengers sit. It includes the seating area, dashboard, and controls.
boxer style four cylinder engine
"2.5 liter boxer style four cylinder engine, 180 horsepower, 178 pound feet of torque."
A boxer engine is a type of engine where the cylinders lay flat and move in opposite directions. This helps the car handle better and can make it feel more stable when driving.
A boxer engine, also known as a flat engine, has horizontally opposed cylinders that provide a lower center of gravity and better balance. This design is commonly used in some sports cars and is known for its unique sound and smooth operation.
CVT transmission
"Toe rating, 3,500 CVT transmission. Manufacturers rating as far as miles per gallon..."
A CVT is a type of automatic transmission that doesn't have fixed gears like most cars. Instead, it can change smoothly through different speeds, which helps the car use fuel more efficiently.
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
miles per gallon
"Manufacturers rating as far as miles per gallon, 24 city, 28 highway for a combined of 26."
Miles per gallon tells you how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at using fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's a key indicator of a car's fuel efficiency, with higher numbers indicating better efficiency.
ground clearance
"More ground clearance. I'd like to see it sit up a little bit further than it already does with bigger tires and wheels."
Ground clearance is how high a car is off the ground. A higher ground clearance means the car can go over bumps and rough terrain more easily.
Ground clearance refers to the distance between the ground and the lowest point of a vehicle's body. Higher ground clearance can improve off-road capability and provide a more commanding view of the road.
base trim price
"Base trim price, $39,835."
The base trim price is the lowest price for a car model, without any extra features or upgrades added. It's what you pay for the simplest version of the car.
Base trim price is the starting price for a vehicle model without any additional options or upgrades. It represents the most basic version of the car available.
Ford Bronco Sport
"...are the actual trim level, the wilderness, to the Bronco Sport Badlands for $42,260. The Nissan Rogue Rock Creek..."
The Ford Bronco Sport is a tough little SUV that can go off-road, which means it can drive on bumpy trails and dirt paths. It's designed for people who like outdoor adventures but still want a comfortable ride.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that combines rugged off-road capabilities with modern technology and comfort. It's part of the revived Bronco lineup and appeals to adventure seekers looking for a vehicle that can handle rough terrain.
Nissan Rogue
"...the Bronco Sport Badlands for $42,260. The Nissan Rogue Rock Creek for $35,380. That's where they start."
The Nissan Rogue is another SUV that is popular because it has a lot of room and is easy to drive. It's designed to be safe and comfortable for everyday use, making it a good choice for many people.
The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV that offers a comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and good fuel economy. It competes in a crowded market and is favored for its practicality and technology integration.
Honda Crv
"That's where they start. And the Honda CR-V Trail Sport for $40,250. And that is my review."
The Honda CR-V is a type of car called an SUV, which means it's bigger than a regular car and has more space inside. It's great for families because it can carry a lot of stuff and is known to be very dependable.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice among families and individuals looking for a versatile vehicle that performs well in various driving conditions.
Kia EV6
"Next week, we're going to have the Kia EV6. So be looking for that when we're out at Tail Pipes and Taco."
The Kia EV6 is a new electric car from Kia. It's a crossover SUV, which means it's a mix between a car and an SUV, and it runs on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover SUV that features a modern design, advanced technology, and impressive performance metrics. It represents Kia's commitment to electric mobility and offers a range of features for tech-savvy drivers.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"Why not let Gulf Coast Auto Shield protect it? Houstonian John Gray invites you to his state-of-the-art facility..."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a business that helps keep your car looking new by applying special coatings and films to protect the paint.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that specializes in automotive protection services, including paint protection and ceramic coatings. They focus on maintaining and enhancing the appearance of vehicles.
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