Whether it’s because you want to try out a new color or your vinyl is simply aging, it will eventually come time to remove your wrap. To do so will require patience and careful technique to not damage the underlying paint.

While vinyl wraps provide a cost-effective way to change the aesthetics of your vehicle, they are not meant to be permanent. Even if your vinyl still appears to be in good condition on visual inspection, the material can break down over the years and become harder to remove. It is recommended not to leave your wrap on for longer than 3 years, regardless of the condition. When it comes time to remove your wrap you will want to take extra care to avoid damaging your the paint or body panels.

• Heat gun
• Plastic scraper or a razor blade
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Microfiber towels
• Soapy water or automotive detailing spray
• Soft sponge or microfiber mitt
• Residue remover (if needed)
• Clay bar (optional)

Prepare Your Work Area: Choose a well-ventilated area with good lighting. Avoid working in direct sunlight or on a very hot day as the heat could make the adhesive more difficult to work with.

Heat the Vinyl Wrap: Use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently warm the vinyl wrap. Start at the edges and corners, applying heat in a sweeping motion. The heat softens the adhesive, making it easier to peel off.

Peel Off the Vinyl Wrap: Once the vinyl wrap is heated, start peeling it off slowly starting from a corner and at a low angle. Use a plastic scraper or plastic razor blade to assist in lifting the wrap if needed. Be careful not to dig into the paint or apply too much force. Note that pulling too harder or at too high of angle increases the risk of removing the clear coat or even paint. If there is too much resistance, reheat the vinyl as needed.

Remove Residual Adhesive: After the vinyl is removed, you'll likely have adhesive residue left on the car. Use isopropyl alcohol or an adhesive remover on a microfiber towel to gently rub and dissolve the adhesive. Test the chosen product in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't harm the paint.

Wash the Surface: Wash the car with soapy water or an automotive detailing spray to remove any remaining adhesive remover and ensure the surface is clean.

Clay Bar (Optional): If there are any stubborn bits of adhesive left or if the surface doesn't feel smooth, you can use a clay bar to gently remove any remaining contaminants.

Remember, patience is key during this process. Rushing or using excessive force can lead to damage to the car's paint. If you're not comfortable performing these steps yourself, consider seeking assistance from a professional vinyl wrap removal service to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.