A quality vinyl, properly fitted and looked after, lasts several years on a car. But not every surface ages at the same rate, and some washing habits can shorten its life a lot. Here's what to expect and how to make it last as long as possible.
How long does it last?
The lifespan depends mainly on how much sun it gets. As a guide:
- Vertical surfaces (doors, wings, bumpers): these last longest, because the sun hits them at an angle.
- Horizontal surfaces (roof, bonnet, boot lid): they get the full force of the sun and age faster.
- Interior (trims, console): it hardly deteriorates at all.
The climate matters too (strong southern sun is harder on vinyl than a mild, cloudy climate), as do garage parking and the finish: mirror chromes are more delicate than a solid colour.
The first few days
The adhesive takes about 48 hours to bond fully. During that time, don't wash the car and, if you can, park it in the shade. If you see a small bubble, push it with your finger towards the nearest edge: our films have air-release channels and the air escapes through the micro-channels in the adhesive.
How to wash it
- By hand if possible, with water, a pH-neutral car shampoo and a microfibre mitt.
- Automatic car wash: if you must, choose a touchless one or one with soft cloth brushes.
- Pressure washer: at more than 30 cm and never aimed straight at the edges of the film, where it can lift.
- Dry it with a microfibre towel to avoid water spots.
- Bird droppings, sap and insects: remove them as soon as possible with water and a soft cloth. In the sun they're very aggressive.
What not to use
No thinners, petrol, acetone or abrasive polish. No solvent-based wax either. If you want to protect the film, there are specific vinyl protection products that are easy to find.
Matte and satin vinyl
Matte and satin films must never be polished or waxed: they would go shiny in patches. Wash them only with neutral shampoo and, to protect them, use a product made for matte finishes.
Chrome vinyl
Chromes are the most delicate: wash them by hand only and dry them with a clean microfibre cloth, without rubbing hard. They're perfect for details and parts that don't get rubbed.
If an edge lifts
Clean it with isopropyl alcohol, warm it with the hairdryer and press it down with your finger for a few seconds. If a panel has been damaged by a knock, just replace the film on that panel: with a small roll of the right length, it will be like new. And when the time comes to change it, here's how to remove it without damaging the paint.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a car wrap last?
A quality vinyl, properly fitted and looked after, lasts several years. Vertical surfaces such as the doors last longer than the roof and bonnet, which get the full force of the sun.
Can I take a wrapped car through an automatic car wash?
Yes, preferably a touchless one or one with soft cloth brushes. Washing by hand with a pH-neutral shampoo is still best.
Can I use a pressure washer on a wrap?
Yes, from more than 30 cm away and never aimed straight at the edges of the film, where it could lift.
Can I wax matte vinyl?
No. Matte and satin vinyl must not be polished or waxed: they would go shiny in patches. Wash them with neutral shampoo and, if you like, use a product made for matte finishes.
