Vinyl car graphics can be a fast and easy way to change the look of your vehicle without damaging the paint.
Found at auto parts stores, there are hundreds of options to choose from, allowing you to create a unique look at a moderate cost.
For those seeking a specific style of vinyl car graphic, sign shops can create custom vinyls for each customer.
No matter what vinyl car graphic you choose, it is important that you install them properly to protect your car's paint job and the graphic itself.
Here are a few tips to complete a perfect installation that will last.
Know Your Materials You will need a wetting agent, which helps the vinyl to adhere to the car.
There are many products on the market to help with this, but you can also make your own concoction inexpensively at home.
Using a quart spray bottle, combine a half of a cup of rubbing alcohol, 2 drops of dish soap, and water.
Also have a paper towels or dry, clean rags available.
Clean Surfaces Work Best To help the vinyl graphic stick to your car, you will need to clean the surface well.
Any dirt particles will hinder the vinyl from sticking properly and could damage your paint.
Also be aware that any spots of rust on the vehicle may also make it difficult for the vinyl to stick.
Position the Vinyl Carefully Using masking tape or painters tape, place the graphic so you can see what it will look like when installed.
This will allow you to move it around so it fits your vehicle properly.
Also take into consideration even application.
Once it is applied, it will be difficult to move if it is off-center or lopsided.
Also look for any areas where the vinyl graphic will come in contact with cracks, door locks, or door handles.
Spray the Surface of the Vehicle Evenly Using your wetting agent, spray an even amount onto the surface of the vehicle, working in small sections.
Begin sticking the vinyl to the surface, making sure the positioning is where you decided in the previous step.
If you find that it is not applying in the area that you want, spray more wetting agents and carefully slide the vinyl to the correct spot.
Use something with a hard, thin edge to squeeze the excess water and bubbles from the vinyl until it is smooth.
A squeegee works well for large areas, while a credit card can be used to get into smaller areas.
Make the Vinyl Graphic Fit Your Car If you have purchased a vinyl car graphic from a car parts store, you may see other vehicles with the same graphic.
For a more unique graphic, the vinyl can be trimmed to fit your personal vehicle.
Using sharp scissors or a razor blade, cutting the graphic can change the look of the vinyl while fitting around your car's door handles, door locks, and cracks.