Your Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Vehicle Wraps

One of the things that makes vinyl car wraps so appealing is that while they last a long time, they are also easy to remove. Whether your wrap has become damaged or you’re just looking to switch things up, the removal process isn’t difficult. Keep reading to learn how to do it and what you should look out for during this process.

How Do I Know When to Remove a Car Wrap?

Removing a car wrap before its time may waste some of the value of your investment. Here are a few things you should know if you’re thinking about removing your car’s vinyl wrap.

How Long Do Truck, Car, and Trailer Wraps Last?

Most vehicle wraps last 5 to 7 years. Taking good care of yours will extend its lifespan and help you get as much use out of it as possible. Be sure to wash it regularly, avoid using harsh chemicals on it, and store it in a protected area.

Monitor your vehicle wrap for signs of wear, including scratches, lifting edges, and general weathering. These issues tend to crop up when a vehicle wrap is nearing the end of its life. If you see them, consider removing and replacing the wrap before things get worse.

Vinyl Car Wrap General Information and Tips

There are several factors that might make a vinyl vehicle wrap harder to remove.

Perhaps the most important of these is the length of time the wrap has been on the vehicle. Vinyl loses elasticity and becomes brittle over time, making it harder to lift it off the surface it’s attached to. Wraps that have been in place for a decade or more will be much harder to remove than ones that have only been around for a handful of years.

The type of vinyl the wrap is made of also influences this process. Cheaper vinyl won’t peel off as smoothly as premium vinyl would. You can still remove it, but it will take longer and may leave more residue behind. This is one of the many reasons why quality vinyl is worth the investment!

Lastly, some removal methods are easier than others. If your wrap responds well to heat, some elbow grease and a heat gun may be all you need to remove it. If it doesn’t loosen when heat or solvents are applied to it or only comes off in tiny flakes, this might be a job for the professionals.

What Not to Do When Removing Vinyl Vehicle Wraps in Toronto

If you’re ready to try removing your vinyl wrap, avoid doing it when it’s cold outside or in direct, bright sunlight. These conditions will make the job harder. Instead, work on the job indoors in a heated space with focused task lighting.

How to Remove a Vinyl Car Wrap

Step 1: Heat the Vinyl

Start by heating the vinyl according to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 65 degrees). You can do this with a heat gun or any other portable heat source. Apply the heat evenly to avoid bubbling or burning.

Step 2: Start with a Corner

Once the vinyl is sufficiently warm, gently pry a corner of the wrap loose and pull it away from the vehicle at a 45-degree angle.

Step 3: Keep It Consistent

As you continue to pull the vinyl loose, make sure you keep your speed and level of pressure consistent. Going too fast will tear the vinyl and make it harder to get the whole wrap off.

Step 4: Use a Solvent to Remove Adhesive Residue

After removing the entire wrap, check your car for signs of leftover adhesive residue. If you find any, use a vinyl wrap remover solvent to break it down and wash it away.

Step 5: Come Up with a New Design

Congratulations – you’ve done it! Now, it’s time to create a new vehicle wrap design and give your car a brand-new look.

How to Care for a New Vinyl Car Wrap

To make your new wrap last, you’ll want to treat it with care. Here are a few tips to help you keep it in good condition.

• Wash It Frequently. Dirt, debris, and chemical residue can all degrade your vinyl wrap. Wash it regularly using gentle soap and a clean microfiber cloth. Don’t use wax or other finishing products on areas of your car that are covered by the vinyl.
• Avoid Automated Car Washes. Many automated car wash stations are equipped with hard-bristled brushes that could damage your wrap. Wash your car by hand whenever possible. When you need a quick wash on the go, look for newer car washes that are more likely to have soft brushes and cleaning pads.
• Store It Properly. The sun’s UV rays may cause vinyl truck wraps to degrade. Keep your wrapped vehicle stored in a garage or a shaded area, and be sure to cover it when it’s not in use.

How to Deal with Any Adhesive Residue

If you discover a few leftover spots of adhesive on your car after removing your wrap, apply a small amount of adhesive removal solvent and gently scrub it away. This should take care of the sticky spots, even if they’ve been hanging around for months. Remember to rinse off any remaining solvent to keep your vehicle looking its best.

Replace Your Old Car Wraps with Help from The Sign & Graphics Manufaktur

When it’s time for a new vehicle wrap, contact The Sign & Graphics Manufaktur. Our expert design team or sign company will help you create a new set of fleet wrap graphics that you’ll be proud to show off everywhere you go. Call us today or use our online form to request a quote for your vehicle wrap project.

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