cgocifer,

In general that statement is correct but not a 100%. I agree that the black vinyl OEM bras by themselves can do more damage then good. However, I would not take my car a road trip without one, but I also have a 3M clear bra underneath. The clear bra is excellent for in town and can take quite an impact but take a car at above a 100 mph and factor in a rough tumbleweed and you can have some serious damage. The clear bra also protects the paint from the mechanical rubbing of the bra, especially when dust and weed pollen/debris get under the bra. My black vinyl bra has picked up a couple of deep cuts from rocks and debris, plus the little bug deflectors have help toss a few rocks over the top.