The Ultimate Guide to Vehicle Wrap Care & Maintenance

A professionally installed vehicle wrap is a great investment—it protects your vehicle’s paint, turns heads on the road, and promotes your brand 24/7. But to get the most out of your wrap, proper care and maintenance are essential. At Air Graphix, we want your wrap to look its best and last as long as possible. Follow our expert tips below to keep your vehicle wrap clean, vibrant, and protected.

Washing Requirements: How Often Is Enough?

To preserve the integrity and visual appeal of your vehicle wrap:

• Wash your vehicle at least once a month. Weekly washes are ideal, especially if your vehicle is frequently on the road.

• Wait a minimum of two weeks after installation before your first wash. This allows the vinyl to fully cure.

Hand Washing Best Practices

Hand washing is the safest and most effective way to clean your wrapped vehicle. Here’s how to do it right:

Supplies Needed:

• Garden hose with spray nozzle

• Clean bucket

• Mild car wash detergent

• Soft cotton or microfiber sponge

• Soft truck wash brush (with extension pole)

• Dry microfiber cloths

Steps:

1. Rinse the surface with a hose to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Mix water with a mild car wash soap in a clean bucket. Avoid using buckets with grit that can scratch the wrap.
3. Wash from top to bottom, allowing dirty water to flow downward.
4. Rinse thoroughly. For fewer water spots, remove the nozzle and let water sheet over the wrap.
5. Dry with a microfiber cloth or allow it to air dry. You can also use compressed air.
6. Optional: Use a silicone or Teflon-based polish specifically designed for vinyl wraps for added protection and shine.

What to Avoid

To extend the life of your wrap and avoid costly damage:

• ❌ Avoid cleansers with ammonia or bleach.

• ❌ Do not use dish detergents like Windex, Fantastik, 409, Simple Green, or Ajax.

• ❌ Don’t wax over window perf or vinyl graphics.

• ❌ Don’t allow fuel to sit on the wrap. Wipe spills immediately.

• ❌ Never use a rear wiper on perforated or window vinyl.

• ❌ No scrapers or hard brushes during snow removal—use only a soft brush.

Automatic & Pressure Washing: Proceed with Caution

If you opt for an automatic car wash:

• Choose a brushless system only.

• Wait at least two weeks after installation before using this service.

• Request a liquid wax application to help protect your wrap.

Note: Air Graphix is not responsible for damage from automatic or pressure washing without prior written authorization.

If pressure washing is required (especially for fleets), please contact us for approved techniques to ensure your wrap remains under warranty.

Polishing & Waxing Guidelines

To maintain shine and UV protection:

• Polish your wrap 4 times per year using our recommended vinyl wrap detail kit.

• Alternatively, a commercial brushless car wash with liquid wax once per month can work.

• Wax once a year (or more) using a liquid wax—not carnauba-based products, which contain petroleum.

• Never wax window perforated vinyl.

Wrap Removal Timeline

All vehicle wraps should be professionally removed within 5 years to avoid damage to the underlying paint and to ensure clean removal.

Winter Care: Snow & Ice

• Do not use rear windshield wipers on perforated vinyl.

• Use only a soft brush to remove snow.

• Avoid scrapers or ice removal tools that can scratch or lift the vinyl.

By following these simple care tips, your vehicle wrap will stay looking sharp and continue to turn heads for years to come. If you have any questions about wrap maintenance or need help with cleaning products or removal, contact the Air Graphix team—we’re here to help.