Did you know that the market for automobile wraps was worth USD 4.76 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 22.2% from 2024 to 2030? It is a booming market, and rightfully so. Whether you are a business owner with a fleet of automobiles that sport your company name or logo, or a car enthusiast with a passion for the perfect paint job, you understand the importance of protecting your vehicle’s exterior paint to keep it looking new and pristine.
It is becoming commonplace for automobile owners to turn to paint protection wraps to keep that precious paint job looking new. Car paint protection wraps protect your car’s finish from scratches, road debris, weather elements, and other minor damage.
Wraps can also improve the gloss and luster of your vehicle’s paint, which is why these protective films are becoming an increasingly popular automotive accessory. Read on to discover our top seven tips for keeping your car’s paint protection wrap clean and damage-free.
1. Be Smart When Cleaning Your Car
After installing a protective film on your car, it is recommended to stop using commercial car washes. If you love the convenience of running your car through the carwash, it will not be an easy change for you to take. But if you want the coating to remain pristine and look good for longer, it is highly recommended.
If you find it impossible to refrain from the commercial car wash, try to go less often. You can also try the following for your paint protection maintenance routine:
- Remove dirt, bird droppings, and dead bugs to avoid permanent staining on the film
- Use 99% isopropyl alcohol on extra-tough areas
- Apply car wash detergent with a clean microfiber cloth or mitt
- Soak hard-to-clean areas with soap for a few minutes
- Dry your car with a microfiber towel
- Brushes, terry cloth, and paper products can dull the surface or even damage it in some cases
- Pay attention to dirt build-up on the film’s edges
- Do not use abrasive materials when cleaning or drying your car
2. Do Not Touch the Wrap Following Installation
The protective film may require at least 48 hours or longer to settle and cure. After installation, keep your hands off the film for at least a week. Also, remember that low temperatures and high humidity can cause the curing process to be delayed.
3. Refrain from Washing Your Car for 7 Days After Application
While the film is settling and curing, avoid washing your car. It would be preferable to allow paint protection wrap enough time to cure on your car. When you wash right after installation, the washing or agitating of the surface can hinder the curing process.
Experts advise against driving your car within seven days of application. However, if you must drive during this time, exercise caution when putting pressure on the coating to avoid issues with the wrap’s curing process.
4. Remove Paint Protection Wrap Contaminants Immediately
Remove pollutants as soon as you notice them. Removing contaminants like bird droppings, oil splatter, and dirt is one of the easy actions you can take to keep your paint protection film looking fantastic and preserve your car’s appearance. If you leave contaminants on your car, the film may become discolored or deteriorate.
Use a specialized paint protection film cleaner if impurities do not come off well with a routine wipe-down. Isopropyl alcohol can be used if this doesn’t work. When removing a stubborn stain, use isopropyl alcohol sparingly, and be sure to avoid touching any paint that isn’t protected by the paint protection film.
5. Don’t Put Off Dealing with Light Scratches
One of the most important benefits of paint protection wraps is the prevention of scratches. Keep in mind that your paint protection film can mend itself.
Leaving your car in the sun for 25 to 30 minutes should do the trick. Your PPF will revert to its natural shape and heal any scratches with the heat of the sun.
To hasten this process, apply hot water to the scratch. If it’s cold outside and your car isn’t warm enough in the sun to activate the self-healing properties, this is an excellent option for you. But make sure the water is no hotter than 120° F.
6. It Is Best Not to Pressure Wash Your Vehicle
It is advisable to avoid using any high-pressure source of water on your wrapped automobile, including a pressure washer. Pressure washing may cause the paint protection film to start pulling away from the paint. If pressure washing is unavoidable, keep the pressure washer at a safe distance when washing your vehicle with a paint protection wrap installation.
And make sure none of the edges are getting doused by the spray. Water can push up beneath the edges of the film and pull it away from the painted surface.
Purchasing high-quality cleaning supplies can also help protect your film. You should avoid using lower quality car washing soap, which may include harsh chemicals that harm the film or dull the coating. Consider using shampoos with lubricating components, and make sure to use microfiber mitts made for cleaning cars.
7. Waxing Paint Protection Wraps
If you enjoy waxing your favorite car and are careful about the wax’s contents, you can apply wax to your paint protection wrap. Be careful and avoid any solvents that can weaken the adhesive that keeps your paint protection wrap secure and bonded to your paint.
Check the label for any abrasives that might harm the top layer of the wrap. The ingredients kerosene and naphtha in wax are a cause for concern.
Your paint protection coating may be harmed by wax if it contains more than 5% of these elements. Also, you should avoid using any waxes that include color pigments to avoid damaging your paint protection wrap.
Paint Protection Wraps Seal the Deal
Paint protection wraps are the go-to solution for anyone wanting to keep their automobile looking beautiful for years to come. Looking for more information or have questions about installing paint protection wraps? Contact your local paint protection wrap professional.
