Wrapped cars have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to customize and personalize vehicles. A car wrap refers to a vinyl film that is applied to the exterior of a car using heat and pressure to adhere it to the body panels. Car wraps allow car owners to temporarily change the color and appearance of their vehicle without permanently altering the original paint. But how long can you expect a wrapped car to last before needing to be removed or replaced?
What impacts the longevity of a car wrap?
There are several factors that impact how long a wrapped car will last:
Quality of the vinyl film
The quality and thickness of the vinyl used in the car wrap has a big impact on durability. High quality cast vinyl films, usually ranging from 2-4 mil in thickness, provide better performance and longer lasting wraps. Lower quality calendered vinyl films, typically 1-1.5 mil in thickness, are less flexible and more prone to wear and tear over time.
Quality of the installation
A car wrap is only as good as the quality of the installation. When installed by a reputable and experienced shop, car wraps adhere properly to the contours of the vehicle for a seamless fit with no lifting or bubbling. Proper techniques are used to apply heat and stretch the vinyl for a smooth finish. Poor installation can lead to the wrap degrading prematurely.
Exposure to elements
Like any exterior coating on a car, wraps are subjected to harsh environmental factors that impact their durability. Exposure to sunlight, moisture, temperature extremes, dirt, debris, and daily driving conditions will cause a wrap to wear over time. Cars in hot, sunny climates or that are driven frequently will likely need wraps replaced sooner.
Color of the vinyl film
Lighter color wraps tend to show wear sooner than darker colors. Darker wraps don’t show scratches and marks as easily. Metallic and pearlescent wraps also tend to last longer than solid colors or wraps with complex designs and patterns.
Maintenance and care
Proper maintenance and care extends the life of a wrap. Washing regularly using the right techniques and products cleans the wrap and prevents buildup of contaminants that can degrade the vinyl. Avoiding automatic car washes is recommended. Garage parking helps protect from UV exposure. Immediately fixing scratches or edges also helps wraps last.
How long do car wraps usually last?
With ideal conditions and proper care, you can expect the following average lifespan for a quality vinyl car wrap:
| Car Wrap Duration | Miles |
|---|---|
| 1-3 years | 12,000-50,000 |
| 4-5 years | 50,000-70,000 |
| 6-8 years | 70,000-100,000 |
However, most reputable wrapping shops provide a warranty ranging from 3-5 years for their installations. If properly cared for, most wraps can last 3-5 years before needing replacement.
Factors that reduce car wrap longevity
Certain factors can decrease the usable life of a vinyl car wrap, causing it to fail or require replacement sooner than expected:
Poor preparation of the vehicle surface
Wraps adhere best to surfaces that are completely smooth and free of defects. The paint should be buffed and detailed before wrapping, otherwise imperfections show through the vinyl. Failure to properly prep the surface shortens wrap life.
Low quality vinyls
Cheaper, lower quality vinyl films are more likely to bubble, lift, tear or deteriorate faster than high quality cast vinyl when exposed to weather and driving conditions.
Improper installation
Vinyls need to be installed following specific techniques to properly adhere to curved surfaces. Rushing through the job or lack of experience leads to corners being cut, shortening how long it lasts.
Damage from road debris
Vinyl wraps can be scratched or punctured by rocks and road debris, requiring spot repairs or replacement if damage is extensive. Highway driving increases the likelihood of damage occurring.
Harsh weather or climates
Exposure to extreme heat, cold, and humidity degrade vinyl wraps faster than moderate climates. Desert heat, coastal moisture, and snow/ice accelerate wear and shorten life of the wrap.
Neglecting care and maintenance
Allowing dirt, grime and contaminants to build up on the wrap over time can lead it to fail prematurely. Not properly washing and caring for the wrap lets it degrade faster.
Signs your car wrap needs to be replaced
Here are signs that indicate it’s time to remove or replace your existing car wrap:
- Bubbling or lifting of vinyl from the edges
- Cracking, peeling or tearing of vinyl film
- Discoloration or fading, especially lighter colored wraps
- Contaminants and grime that cannot be removed by washing
- Vinyl feeling brittle or rigid and less pliable
- Visible scratches, scrapes, dings that cannot be repaired
Once these issues become noticeable, the wrap is no longer adequately adhered to the vehicle surface. Continuing to drive with a failing wrap can be unsafe as it can peel off while driving. Replace it as soon as deterioration becomes apparent.
Removing and disposing old car wrap
Removing an old car wrap requires patience and care to avoid damaging the underlying paint. Here is the process:
- Wash and thoroughly clean the vehicle first
- Use a heat gun to gently warm and soften the vinyl
- Slowly peel away vinyl by pulling on edges and working in small sections
- Use a plastic putty knife to help separate vinyl from crevices
- Use solvents like WD-40 to remove leftover adhesive
- Clay bar and buff any areas of residue to smooth paint
- Dispose of old vinyl properly based on local regulations
Vinyl wraps are not recyclable, so follow hazardous waste disposal guidelines. Remove as much as possible by hand before using solvents and be careful not to damage the underlying paint.
Cost of replacing a car wrap
The cost to replace an existing car wrap will depend on:
- Vehicle size and surface area needing rewrapped
- Complexity of design and color scheme
- Quality of vinyl film selected
- Geographic location and labor rates in your area
On average, expect to pay $2,000-$5,000 for a basic quality full wrap on a standard sedan. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs will be more. More complex wraps with detailed graphics or color schemes can cost $5,000-$10,000 or more.
Should you rewrap or repaint?
When your wrap has reached the end of its usable life, you’ll need to decide whether to replace it with another wrap or repaint the car instead. Here are some factors to help determine the better option:
Cost
A new wrap will almost always be cheaper than a high quality repaint job. Wraps only cover the exterior panels versus paint affects the entire vehicle.
Color options
Wraps allow you to pick almost any color or finish. Paint is permanent and limits changing colors again later.
Resale value
Paint holds value better long-term. Some buyers dislike residual adhesive from old wraps still on the car.
Longevity
Quality paint can last 10+ years maintained properly. Expect to replace wraps more often.
Commitment
Wraps are temporary and reversible. Paint is permanent and can’t be easily changed.
For short term customization or to protect paint on older vehicles, rewrapping often makes more sense. But for long term value and permanence, quality repainting may be the better investment.
Protecting and maintaining your car wrap
To maximize the lifespan of your vinyl car wrap, make sure to:
- Wash regularly using clean mitts, sponges and proper technique
- Avoid spinning brushes or abrasive cloths that can scratch
- Use reputable car wash facilities, not automatic washes
- Park in covered garages or shaded areas when possible
- Apply a ceramic coat on top of the wrap for added protection
- Immediately fix any scratches, cuts or lifting of vinyl
- Remove debris like sap drips or bird poop quickly to avoid staining
- Avoid exposing to unnecessary heat or prolonged sunlight when possible
Proper maintenance helps your car wrap last as long as possible before needing replacement. Be diligent about regular washing and inspections to catch any areas needing repair.
Conclusion
Car wraps can last anywhere from 1-8 years if properly installed using quality vinyls. Many factors impact the lifespan like climate, maintenance and driving conditions. Replace wraps once bubbling, lifting or cracking becomes apparent. With regular care and cleaning, you can maximize the duration of your wrap. But expect that all wraps will need replacement at some point as the vinyl degrades over time.