Once you have made the investment of wrapping your vehicle, the last thing you want is to see it cracked or faded. Fortunately, if you abide by some easy do's and don'ts, you can keep your vehicle wrap looking fresh and new for longer. It's actually very easy to care for vinyl, and it's well worth the effort (and saved money) in the long run.
Expect that your vinyl graphics will get dirty with all that time on the road, and be prepared. The easiest way for fast spot cleaning is using a microfiber cloth. This material is soft, won't scratch, and can easily remove dirt or mud from the vinyl. If you service people's homes, remember that this is often your client's first impression of you, so clean it up as often as you can.
Many find the best results by washing the vehicle weekly. A mild detergent will do the trick and won't cause harm to the wrap. Just as with a regular hand car wash, you'll want to dry the vehicle after to reduce water spots. Use a microfiber cloth or a silicone squeegee to wipe away any water.
If you decide to have your vehicle professionally cleaned, make sure the wax and wash they use is safe for vinyl. At SmartWrap we prefer The Chemical Guys Wrap Detailer as a full washing and waxing system for glossy vinyl wraps.
When using a new cleaner, test a small area first. Avoid high-powered dryers like those in drive-thru car washes; they can lift the edges of your wrap. Stay away from automatic car washes entirely; the bristles and high-pressure water can damage the vinyl. When applying wax, don't use a buffer; it can scratch.
Generally, most types of wax will eat away at vinyl. Get a specific wax that's safe for vehicle wrap. Most waxes from The Chemical Guys are safe for vinyl as long as they're in a plastic container.
If your windows have perforated graphic, avoid rolling them down and don't use rear windshield wipers or rear defrosters unless you have no other option. The chemicals in wiper fluid are corrosive to ink.
Other simple care tips: park in a garage or covered spot, and clean anything that could potentially stain regular paint (fuel or bird droppings) right away. Your wrap will last for miles and miles as long as you take the proper precautions and only use products that are safe for vinyl.