FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. When I order and receive my spoilers from MaierEV, what kind of finish should I expect?
2. What is the difference between “Black gel coat” and “Clear” finish?
We make all the parts the same in the sense of materials; gel coat is the first layer down, then polyester resin with the reinforcements of carbon fiber, then a layer of fiberglass and finally an additional layer of carbon fiber.
When we use black gelcoat, it covers any small imperfections or pin hole bubbles in the lay up. These are non structural issues, simply cosmetic. When we use the clear gel coat, every little imperfection is visible and it takes a lot more time to get it looking great. Consequently the clear gel coat parts cost more from a time and material standpoint. We also clear coat over the clear gel gel coat with a PPG Polyurethane that is helpful with the UV protection. This is yet more steps of sanding, painting, sanding and buffing. The black or dark gray parts come with either a black gel coat finish or a dark gray primer finish that you can paint over or wrap.
3. What is the ground clearance difference compare to the OEM bumper lip (Front spoiler and Side skirt only)?
The Maier parts are not hanging any lower than the floor of the car. That said the front spoiler’s shape is extending forward of the nose an inch or so and makes is easier to hit for the lowered cars navigating the curb stones or parking lot concrete.
4. Will this affect range (as in gas mileage for gas cars) (Front and Rear spoiler only)
Our customers HAVE done millage test and reported back “no noticeable” range changes. It is challenging to get perfect results in imperfect testing methods so, we can not officially make black & white claims.
5. Does this void warranty?
The parts are bolt on or tape parts to the existing panels. We are not aware of any warranty concerns at this point. Tesla has tested some of our parts but has not come back with any conclusive statements.
6. How is it being mounted to the car? Do I have to drill any holes on my car?
The rear spoilers are (2) sided 3M tape only. The front spoiler and side skirts are mounted with tape and with 4 or 6 bolts. Holes need to be drilled ONLY to the Maier parts to fit up with the stock holes on the Tesla. Meaning, if you choose to take the parts off at some point, you can put the car back to original without addressing unnecessary holes.
7. Are they UV protected?
Yes, We use Polyester resin, marine UV stable gel coats and ultimately PPG polyurethane clear coat with a touch of black pigment.
While there are companies out there that argue the epoxies are the best way to laminate a part (I, Charles Maier, can say that since 1992, I have been using Epoxies & Polyesters) I choose to make these in Polyester and while there is a list of pros & cons to consider, we think the polyesters in the long run are the best solution for non yellowing, clear carbon parts over time.
8. How much does it weight?
9. Is it real carbon fiber?
Absolutely… We use a custom woven plain weave fabric made by Composite Fabrics of America in Taylorsville, NC. This special weave is an 8 by 12 unbalanced warp & fill. Meaning, we have less toes or strands in one direction. It helps to separate the material a little allowing the fabric to lay flat against the surface of the part, giving the appearance of a fatter bundle. We love the look of this!!
10. Is fiberglass or polyurethane version available?
You are welcome to email us about making fiberglass parts if you like. We do NOT make a polyurethane option.
11. What materials are used to make the spoilers so I can repair them?
We use a ISO-tolic “polyester” resin. You can buy a compatible resin in small quantities at: Tap Plastics, Finish Masters, Lowe’s or Home Depot. The mix instructions will be with that kit.
As for the clear coat, we use a PPG clear. Cromax Premier LE LE8700S, Activator LE1005S.
12. How soon will my order ship?
We make every effort to stock these parts on the shelf. Given the current production, if we are out of stock you may wait up to a week for the item to be boxed up to ship. If the items are not in stock we will notify you immediately with an estimated delivery date and ask if you have any scheduling conserns. As we make them here in California, we can typically accomodate speedy turn around times.