How to Maintain my PPF (+vinyl) Wrapped Car?

You have the coolest looking car around... Now what?

With the popularity of wrapping cars either with PPF (paint protection film) or standard Vinyl Film it's crucial your investment doesn't go down the drain. Certified PPF installers may not always give you a comprehensive checklist on how to make sure your film stays fresh and healthy but no worries that's why you have our team.

Your car is likely wrapped with one of these films: 3M, VinylFrog, Avery Dennison or TekWrap

So what do all of these popular film brands have in common??

After digging through their care instructions that you have to download they warn you to STAY AWAY FROM CAR WASHES. Funny enough they all state how "easy it is to clean" and maintain but then go on to tell you to ONLY use mild (gentle) products ranging from 5-9pH levels, no abrasive chemicals, gently wash with a microfiber... the list continues and here are some screenshots from VinylFrog & Avery Dennison.

This is the cleaning instruction direct from TekWrap's FAQ page

The film is wash-ready. Please do not apply waxes, polishes, or clear coating. Avoid using harsh chemicals and brushes when cleaning the surface. When you use pre-spraying cleaners and high-pressure cleaners, use them with caution. Avoid pointing the spray bar directly to the surface and edges. Do not direct the water stream at a sharp angle to the edge. Hold the nozzle 70cm away from and perpendicular to the film. Excessive pressure during washing can damage the applied film by forcing water underneath the film. The rest of the polishes have to be cleaned totally. We recommend quickly removing aggressive impurities like tree resin, dead insects, or bird droppings. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush or sponge for cleaning. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. Allow drying naturally. Do not leave the water on the surface.

Sure you can get away with going to your local hand wash place but we all know the risks of that and the frustration that follows after spending your valuable time and money not to get the ideal result.

So how do we properly maintain our PPF or Vinyl Wrapped cars?

Main takeaways:

• Use fresh sponges and/or microfiber towels

• PH neutral soap, nothing too strong (abrasive)

  • there are soaps designed for matte finishes that we recommend

• Avoid at all cost going to automatic car washes and most of your average washes

• Do not use too much pressure when washing, take your time around the car edges

• Gently dry off or let it naturally dry

Option # 2 is a more time friendly alternative 😉 a headache free and enjoyable car cleaning experience.

If you have a PPF or vinyl wrapped car in Fairfield, Westport, Darien, New Canaan or anywhere in southern CT then show your car some love and let our mobile team at Domestic Detail come to you and take care of your investment. We have a tailored service called "PPF | Vinyl Wrapped Wash"just for you & even a reoccurring maintenance plan customized to fit your schedule.

Book my Appointment

Give us a call or text 📲 203.293.8467

Drive clean