Tips on Cleaning a Wrapped Car (#41)

Wash wrapped vehicles as often as you would normally hand wash a painted vehicle.

Do’s :

1. Wash vehicle in the shade or avoid washing vehicle while the body is hot or under direct sunlight.
2. It is best to wash wrapped vehicles once every 2 weeks to maintain surface cleanliness as one would on a painted vehicle.
3. Rinse dirt off vehicle with room temperature water using standard low pressure garden hose nozzle as seen in Figure 1.
4. Dilute mild car wash detergent (non abrasive, silicone emulsion free) in cold water based on manufacturer’s recommended ratio.
5. Using soft sponge or non abrasive cloth, hand wash wrapped vehicle with car wash solution.
6. Rinse soapy water off with water and dry using synthetic shammy or low microfiber fabric.
7. Gentle wiping of sensitive areas such as door handles, moldings, mirrors and seams is highly recommended.
8. When possible, store vehicle in garage or shaded area to reduce extended outdoor exposure.
9. Pressure washing is not the best practice for long term vehicle wrap vinyl life but may be used following these rules of thumb as listed on TIP #25:
   •  Nozzle pressure should not exceed 1300 PSI.
   •  Water temperature should not exceed 140°F or 60°C.
   •  Nozzle tip should not be closer than 5’ from wrap film.
   •  Angle of water spray should be no shallower than 60 degrees from perpendicular.
   •  Post washing, fresh water rinse will help maintain the life of wrap film

Dont’s:

1. Wash using hot water.
2. Petroleum based, acidic or strong cleaning agent.
3. Automatic or mechanical car washes with harsh rotated brushes.
4. Abrasive products that would scratch paint or vinyl surface.
5. High pressure (higher than 1300 PSI) jet spray

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