I have put the boot on mine hundreds of times and it takes only about 5-10 minutes. The neat look is worth it. The most important step is lowering the top until it is about a foot from stored in the well, closing the latch hooks, tucking in the top fold so that it misses the seat back, and then lowering it fully. Then tuck the boot front flap down behind the rear seat. Yes, you have to be careful not to scratch the paint with the clips. I have a couple minor scuffs where I wasn't careful enough. If you start securing the boot from the front with the snaps then working from each end with the boot clips until all have been closed. I have to replace a couple clips on my original boot every year as they get brittle and break. I have never had the trim loosen but it has never been off the car.