CAR GRAPHICS AND VEHICLE WRAP CARE
How you care for your car graphics and vehicle wraps is critical to the life of your graphic wrap. Nothing will protect your wrap better and keep it looking new longer than keeping it clean!
Dirt, grime, dust and acid, particularly for those who live in big cities, extreme climates or near the coast, are a vehicle wrap’s biggest enemy. If the dirt and pollutants remain on the vehicle wrap material for too long, they may begin to eat through the laminate over time. This can lead to deterioration of the car wrap and eventual rusting of the vinyl material.
The best way to wash your vehicle wrap or car graphics is by hand with a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge using a mild (solvent and alcohol-free) cleaner and, after a complete rinse, let the vehicle air dry or gently dry off with a chamois. The next best method would be a commercial “no-touch” car wash; but be sure to skip the heated drying process as this could cause your wrap to lift or bubble. Be aware that some car washes may use excessive pressure in their sprayers – avoid these establishments.
All vinyl graphic wraps (just like paint) are degraded by prolonged exposure to sun and atmospheric pollutants over time. The horizontal surfaces of your vehicle such as the hood, trunk lid and roof are more likely to wear faster due to direct exposure to the elements. Storing your wrapped vehicle in a garage or a shaded area during the day will help prolong the life of your wrap. Not keeping your wrap clean will shorten the life of your vehicle wrap. Here are some tips for ensuring the longevity of your car wrap and protecting your investment:
Keeping It Clean
- Wash your car wrap or vehicle graphics whenever it appears dirty or at least once a week. Do not allow dirt, dust, bird droppings, sap or other pollutants to remain on the surface of the wrap.
- Rinse off any dirt or/and grit as much as possible with low pressure water.
- Any difficult dirt and grime can be removed with hot soapy water. Soak for several minutes to soften up the contaminants and then wipe off with soft sponge or cloth.
- Non-abrasive detergent such as 3M™ Car Wash Soap or something similar may be use with a soft, clean sponge or cloth.
- Rinse your car wrap thoroughly and reduce water spotting by squeegeeing off the water and dry with a microfiber cloth or chamois.
- Brush-type automatic car washes are not recommended as they can abrade the film and cause edges to lift or chip, as well as dulling the film’s appearance.
- Hand washing is the preferred cleaning method as it is the most gentle way to clean the car wrap
**Do not use rough scrubbing or abrasive tools, which will scratch the film. Wash and rinse off all residue with gentle care. If you encounter something on your wrap that you are having difficulty washing off, please contact us or bring your car in and we will gladly help you!
Waxing
Most standard wrap vinyl with low to high gloss overlaminates can be polished or waxed with a high quality car wax. Always test and approve in an area where it is less inconspicuous area before use.
- Do not use any abrasive polishes or cutting compounds as it will cut through the protective overlaminates.
- Carbon fiber and brushed metal films in Scotchprint® Wrap Film Series 1080, we recommend a polishing product such as 3M™ Tire Restorer or Meguiars® Natural Shine Protectant may be used.
Perforated Window Film
If you have perforated window film on your windows (it has small holes that you can see though), please take the following precautions:
- Do not use heating or defrosting elements
- Do not use wind shield wipers
- Do not open or roll down windows
Vehicle wrap maintenance and care instructions for all car wraps and fleet graphics, Los Angeles, Orange County, Southern California, Long Beach, Los Alamitos
