Dustin Guard
Expertise & Specializations
- Paint Protection Film (PPF) installations
- Ceramic coating applications
- Premium window tinting
- Training and mentoring auto detailers
- Oversight of high-volume vehicle protection projects
- Precision work on luxury, performance, and daily vehicles
Dustin Guard is the co-owner of 86 Auto Lab, a leading automotive protection and detailing shop in Middle Tennessee. With over 13 years of hands-on experience in the industry, Dustin has built a reputation for precision, quality, and innovation. He is an XPEL-certified installer specializing in paint protection film (PPF), ceramic coatings, and window tint. As a United States Navy veteran and host of The Detail Spot Podcast, Dustin combines discipline, expertise, and a commitment to sharing knowledge with the automotive community.
Dustin’s professional focus is on boutique-level installations and comprehensive vehicle protection solutions. He has personally completed over 500 PPF installs and 2,000 ceramic coating applications while overseeing more than 2,500 PPF installs, 3,500 window tint applications, and 4,000 ceramic coating projects. He has also trained over 500 detailers and PPF professionals, helping raise the industry standard for quality workmanship. His shop is recognized as the largest XPEL-certified PPF, window tint, and ceramic coating provider in Middle Tennessee, and his podcast ranks among the highest-rated automotive protection shows on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Passionate about vehicles from a young age, Dustin entered the automotive protection field because of a desire to preserve and enhance vehicles the right way. He observed many owners investing significant resources into their cars only to experience damage from road debris, UV exposure, and improper care. His years of hands-on experience with daily drivers, family SUVs, and high-performance or collector cars have taught him that successful installations require meticulous preparation, precision, and a deep understanding of each vehicle’s unique characteristics.
Outside of work, Dustin is actively involved in the automotive community and enjoys spending time with his family, working on project cars, and playing basketball. His enthusiasm for classic BMWs, Hondas, and enthusiast vehicles informs his approach to customer service and product recommendations, ensuring clients receive tailored protection solutions.
Dustin is committed to providing exceptional service, sharing knowledge, and helping vehicle owners make informed decisions about PPF, ceramic coatings, and premium window tinting. Readers and clients are encouraged to connect with him via Instagram or professional profiles to learn more about his work and expertise.
