Wax care for your vinyl vehicle wrap is just as important as finding the right company to design and install it for you. Waxing not only protects the vehicle wrap from dust, bird droppings, UV rays, and other external elements but also helps maintain its vibrant colors and glossy finish. By creating a smooth surface, waxing makes it easier to clean the wrap, reducing the risk of scratches and swirl marks during regular maintenance.
This blog answers the question: “Can you wax a wrapped car?” We’ll look at the following topics:
- Can you wax a wrapped car?
- Is it safe to wax a wrapped car?
- Does wax damage vinyl wrap?
- What wax is best for vinyl wrap?
Can You Wax a Wrapped Car?
Yes! Wax works best on glossy wraps. It can add a shiny appearance that leaves it looking brand new. It’s best to work with professionals in the fleet wrapping field to ensure that your wrap is suitable for waxing and that you use the correct methods and types.
Before you wax your car, make sure you clean it. Safe methods for cleaning your car wrap include brushless, automatic car washes or washing your vehicle by hand. It’s recommended that you wash a car with wraps by hand to avoid damage from automated machinery. Likewise, it’s best to stray away from pressure washers or car wash soaps with harsh chemicals. If you do pressure wash, make sure you use a spray nozzle at least 12 inches away from the vehicle, at a 40-degree wide angle, and with a temperature no higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is it Safe to Wax a Wrapped Car?
As we mentioned, you want to be careful with waxing certain types of wraps and consider the kind of wax you use. Waxing can be an excellent way for your fleet to achieve a fresh appearance and adds a paint protection film against harmful UV rays, but if done incorrectly, wax can harm your vehicle wrap and distort or wear graphics.
Does Wax Damage Vinyl Wrap?
Many types of waxes and polishes contain abrasive materials that can age wraps. Some finishes, such as matte, chrome, or satin vinyl, are best left unwaxed. While waxing can polish and give your fleet an added protection barrier, it can also risk damaging it if done incorrectly or with the wrong types of wax. To avoid this, consult a professional and avoid DIYing car waxes.
What Wax is Best for Vinyl Wrap?
There are two different kinds of wax commonly used for car wraps, carnauba wax, and polymer wax. The car wax we recommend for the best results and longevity for your vehicle wrap is any polymer-based car wax. Especially those that are made specifically for vinyl-wrapped vehicles.
Polymer-based car wax is an inexpensive, easy-to-apply product that does not require a buffer but uses a terry cloth or microfiber cloth instead. This type of car wax is typically found at any auto parts store and lasts quite a while. Some owners can get by applying a coat twice yearly, saving time and keeping their car wrap looking great.
The other type of wax is carnauba wax. This all-natural substance is tough to work with and requires the proper application tools to apply it. Although this product offers a beautiful shine when applied correctly, the buffering and tools needed are harmful to vinyl wraps and should be avoided. Most of the time, carnauba wax is used on paint jobs, and most drivers will have a dealership or a professional detailer apply the wax for them. Both waxes can work, but only one should be used on your vinyl car wrap; polymer-based car wax.
Choose AZPRO for Top-Tier Fleet Wraps to Advertise Your Business
At AZPRO, we install eye-catching, high-quality vehicle wraps that effectively advertise your business. We also equip you with valuable kits and tools to care for your fleet wrap to prolong the usable life of your investments. Our products also carry a 3M Matched Components Systems (MCS) warranty. Our team provides receipts and documentation, which you can use for filing tax returns. Are you ready to get your mobile billboard on the road? Call our specialists at 866-503-8345 or fill out this contact form for more information, professional tips, and advice.
Published On: April 5, 2013
Updated On: July 26, 2023
