Vinyl Car Wraps: Cost, Types, Brands, and More
Vinyl car wraps have completely changed the automotive industry. Offering car owners a cost-effective and custom alternative to traditional paint jobs as a cost effective solution. We are going to talk about the world of vinyl car wraps. Every question or topic you can think of and then some related to the cost of vinyl wrapping a car is in here.
Covering everything from cost considerations to different types of wraps, top brands, and more. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a newbie looking to give your ride a fresh new look, this guide has you covered.
Lamborghini Urus Vinyl Wrapped in 3M 2080 Satin Black Vinyl
Is it Cheaper to Wrap a Car or Paint It?
When considering whether to vinyl wrap or paint a car, cost is often a significant factor. Both options have their own pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on your budget, preferences, and long-term goals. Here's a closer look at the cost comparison between vinyl wrapping and painting a car:
Vinyl Wrapping
Vinyl wrapping offers a cost-effective way to change the color or appearance of your vehicle without the need for a permanent commitment. It costs less than a paint job and allows for more color wrap option and design possibilities. Car owners who like to change up their vehicle's look frequently can easily remove or replace car vinyl wraps, making them ideal. But mostly to give it the look a paint job can't always accomplish.
The cost of vinyl wrapping a car can vary such as the size and shape of the vehicle, the type of vinyl material used, and the vehicle type. On average, a full vinyl wrap for a mid-size car can range from $3,000 to $5,000 or more. While a partial wrap may cost less, starting at around $1,000. Premium vinyl materials and specialty finishes, such as chrome or color-changing wraps, may cost more than standard options.
Painting a Car
Painting a car is a more traditional and permanent option for changing its color or appearance. While a high-quality paint job can offer a durable and long-lasting finish, it typically comes with a higher price compared to vinyl wrapping. A full paint job for a mid-size car can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more when done correctly. Depending on factors such as the type of paint used, the quality of the finish, and the labor involved.
Painting a car should also require more time and labor compared to vinyl wrapping. It involves sanding, priming, painting, and curing the vehicle's surface. Repainting a car may affect its resale value, as potential buyers may prefer the original factory paint job over a custom paint job. In most cases this can devalue the vehicle.
Both vinyl wrapping and painting a car offer unique advantages and considerations in terms of cost. Car wrap vinyl is generally cheaper, more flexible, and easier to change or remove, making it a popular choice for car enthusiasts and those on a budget. Painting a car provides a more permanent and durable finish but at a higher cost and with less flexibility for design changes. Ultimately, the decision between vinyl wrapping and painting a car depends on your individual preferences, budget, and desired outcome.
Vehicle Types
Let's talk about factoring the vehicle type first as it's the most important when choosing a vinyl wrap shop. For us its the first thing we think about when giving a customer a quote.
When it comes to determining the cost of a car wrap, the size of the vehicle is often the first thing customers would assume we consider. That's not true, smaller vehicles will be less expensive to wrap because they require less material and labor.
For example, a compact car like a Tesla Model 3 may cost around $3,000 for a full gloss black vinyl wrap. A mid-sized vehicle like a Porsche Macan may cost slightly more, around $4,000. Larger vehicles, such as to vinyl wrap a truck or SUVs like an Escalade, may cost around $5,000 due to the additional material and labor required. These are for a good quality material like 3m vinyl wrap or Avery.
Size alone doesn't always dictate the cost of a custom vinyl wrap. Complexity and risk are also important factors to consider and actually the first thing Hooligan Wraps will consider. For example, a Corvette C8 may be similar in size to a Tesla Model 3, but its complex body lines make it more challenging to wrap. As a result, the cost of wrapping a Corvette C8 may be higher, around $4,500 vs the Teslas $3,000 quote.
Mclaren 720S Full STEK Paint Protection Film
The Exotics
When dealing with high-end luxury vehicles or exotic cars, such as a Lamborghini Aventador, a Sian or Ferrari 488. The price can go up a lot because of the risk and complexity of these vehicles. They have fancy designs and costly parts that need special care when wrapping. Additionally, if something goes wrong during the wrap, the cost of repairs or replacements can be astronomical.
The expertise of the vinyl wrap shop becomes crucial. Experienced technicians will understand the challenges of working with high-end vehicles and will take precautions to minimize the risk of damage. They may also factor in additional costs as we do, such as hiring brand-specific technicians or consulting with manufacturer representatives. This ensure the job is done correctly. This alone can cost upward of $1,000 - $3,000.
Disassembling a wing or a bumper on a Lamborghini Sian or a Pagani isn't as simple as watching a youtube video. A business saying don't worry we have insurance to work on these isn't enough. At this point these are pieces of art to most customers.
It's not another Tesla Cybertruck or Porsche 911. It's an entirely other realm of prepping a vehicle for vinyl wrap. These types of vehicles should never be quoted below $10,000 - $12,000. If they are then these precautions were most likely not under consideration.
Ultimately, when choosing a vinyl wrap shop, it's essential to consider more than just the price. Make sure the shop has experience working with your specific vehicle type or at least knows how to approach wrapping it and understands the unique challenges involved. Transparency about pricing and potential risks is key to ensuring a successful and stress-free wrapping experience. These vehicles we wrap are expensive and delicate, they should be handled as such.
The Installer
While talking about expensive cars, transparency and knowledge, lets talk about the installer because I know it's not just our customers reading this. The world of vinyl wrapping and paint protection film installation has become very popular over the years.
I believe social media such as Tik Tok and Instagram have been a big factor in seeing expensive cars getting wrapped or protected so we get an influx of new installers wanting to try it. It's fun and we always encourage people to join the industry or start their own vinyl wrapping business.
When you have a new vinyl installer with a new business come, in it's exciting and I think they should be given a shot just like we did. But if you take a Lamborghini Huracan to get a matte black wrap and they quote you $4,000 then they have not thought through all of the steps of what they are about to do. If you get a quote for a full vinyl wrap on a Tesla Model 3 at $2,000 then that is a red flag.
We need to calculate material costs and double it. Lets say $1,700 and then installer pay at $1,000, some room for overhead and ad spend we call it $3,000. That is a competitive and fair price for a Tesla. If we havn't thought of these most basic things on one of the easiest vehicles to wrap, then what is going to be missed when vinyl wrapping a Ferrari?
Paying The Installer
Now I know a majority of people when they read above I mentioned $1,000 for the installer probably thought that is a high number. High numbers gets us experienced installers, in-turn gives less problems for the business and the customer. Cheap installers create expensive problems for the business and customers. If we pay them well, we can ensure things are done right the first time.
Tesla Cybertruck Wrapped with STEK Paint Protection Film Miami Blue Cybertruckwrap.com
The Tesla Cybertruck
Now we get into a problem and that is Automotive brands. Brands such as Tesla, Ford and others are now offering PPF or vinyl wraps on new vehicles. Let's take the new Tesla Cybertruck as an example. Tesla is installing color paint protection film on their Cybertrucks at select service centers in California for $6,000 -$6,500.
Tesla doing this with the Cybertruck and other models will have a good and bad impact on the industry. First we don't know what film they are using, it's a 5 year warranty so it can't be good. They claim their film is 2x thicker than vinyl on average, that makes it half as thick as the best brands. Major brands such as Xpel, Stek and Pure PPF are 7 - 10 year warranties, self healing and 4x thicker than vinyl on average.
PPF and vinyl has still been trending upward over the past several years. When Tesla comes out and pays for cheap installers to quickly wrap their vehicles with cheap material. Also at a high cost and bad quality, what does that do to the industry? We have seen some of these PPF installs on Cybertrucks from the service center and its not great.
Who takes care of this when the film starts to have problems, do the customers go back to the service center to have it fixed by the same installers? What happens when the vehicle is damaged from a wreck or other means? Do they wait for several days to have a panel fixed? I understand a company wanting to increase profits but at what cost to the industry?
These installs are $6,000 for a handful of color options with only a 5 year warranty by an unknown film and low quality installs. It's a low quality install because they hire cheap PPF installers. This is why we take them to a professional.
I question why a Tesla customer would pay Tesla when they can go to a professional PPF shop and get about 100 color PPF options for a cheaper price, higher quality and double the warranty period. Not only that but if an issue comes up such as a panel is damaged, it can typically be fixed in the same day.
Cybertruckwrap.com is one of those companies and will be a major competitor to Tesla with most install prices at $5,000. They use the best materials in the industry and are actively building a network of reputable shops around the country to install PPF and vinyl for Cybertruck wraps. The customer simply chooses a film color, puts down a deposit and fits them with a professional shop in their area.
This way we know the price, we know the installers, the warranty and most of all having a good customer service experience.
VW Bus With Custom Printed Vinyl Wrap
Types of Vehicle Wrap Coverage: Full and Partial Wraps
When considering a vinyl wrap for your car, one of the decisions you'll need to make is whether to opt for a full or partial wrap. Each option comes with its own costs, which depend on factors such as the size of your vehicle, the complexity of the design, and your budget. Let's explore the cost differences between full and partial wraps:
Full Vinyl Wrap:
A full vinyl wrap covers the entire exterior surface of your vehicle, providing complete coverage and protection. This option allows for maximum customization and transformation of your car's appearance. However, because it involves wrapping every panel and contour of the vehicle, a full wrap is typically more expensive than a partial wrap.
On average, the cost of a full vinyl wrap for a mid-size car can range from $3,000 to $5,000 or more. Depending on the type of vinyl material used, the design, and the skill of the installer. Premium vinyl materials and specialty finishes may increase the cost further, but they also offer enhanced durability and visual appeal.
Partial Vinyl Wrap:
A partial vinyl wrap covers only specific areas or panels of your vehicle, such as the hood, roof, or doors. This option provides a cost-effective way to customize your car's appearance while still achieving a unique and eye-catching look. Because it involves wrapping fewer panels, a partial wrap is generally less expensive than a full wrap.
The cost of a partial vinyl wrap can vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, as well as the specific areas of the vehicle that are being wrapped. On average, a partial wrap may start at around $1,000 for basic coverage, with prices increasing based on the type of vinyl material used and the intricacy of the design.
Partial Car Wraps
Partial car wraps offer a more budget-friendly option for car owners who want to customize their vehicles without committing to a full wrap, we typically see this with race car wraps. These wraps are ideal for adding accents or graphics to specific areas of the vehicle, such as the hood, roof, or side panels.
Whether you choose a full or partial vinyl wrap for your car, it's important to consider your budget, design preferences, and desired level of customization. While a full wrap offers complete coverage and transformation, it comes with a higher price tag. On the other hand, a partial wrap provides a more affordable option for achieving a unique and personalized look. Ultimately, the choice between a full or partial wrap depends on your individual needs.
Harley Davidson Wrapped in Avery Dennison Satin Black Vinyl
Full Color-Change Car Wraps
Full color change wraps are a popular choice for transforming the appearance of vehicles, but they come with several considerations that can impact pricing and the overall process. Here's what you need to know:
Labor Intensity: Full color change wraps often require significant labor, especially for vehicles with complex body shapes or intricate designs. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, our technicians may need to disassemble certain parts to ensure complete coverage and a seamless finish. For example, vehicles like the McLaren 720S may have numerous screws and bolts that need to be carefully removed and replaced, adding to the labor cost.
Door Jambs Coverage: Customers often inquire about wrapping the door jambs to achieve a cohesive look. While this can enhance the overall aesthetic, it also requires additional time and material. Our team meticulously wraps the door jambs to ensure a professional finish, but this can add to the overall cost of the project. For example we charge around $1,800 to do all door jambs and the trunk interior.
Prep Time and Detailing: Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful wrap installation. Before applying the vinyl wrap, our technicians thoroughly clean and detail the vehicle to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants. This ensures optimal adhesion and longevity of the wrap.
However, if the vehicle has been treated with products like tire shine, this needs to be removed correctly so the vinyl will stick. Another issue can be clear coat damage, additional steps may be required, such as sanding down the clear coat, which can increase the labor and cost.
Vehicle Complexity: The complexity of the vehicle's design and construction also influences the wrapping process. While some vehicles, like Teslas, have relatively straightforward paneling that can be easily disassembled and wrapped, others, such as Lamborghini require extreme care and precision due to their unique construction and limited availability of technical support. Exotic car wraps may involve consulting with specialized technicians and adhering to strict guidelines to avoid damaging the vehicle.
Color change wraps can customize your vehicle's look, but they need careful planning and preparation. Factors like labor and cost should be considered before deciding on a full color change wrap. Our experienced technicians are trained to handle even the most complex wrapping projects, ensuring exceptional results that exceed your expectations.
Dak Prescotts Lamborghini Urus Wrapped in 3M 2080 Satin White
Types of Wrap Finishes: Chrome, Matte, Camo Vinyl Wrap, and Color-Changing Wraps
When considering car wraps, the choice of finish is crucial, as it greatly impacts the overall appearance of your vehicle. Various finishes offer distinct a look, here's a breakdown of some popular wrap finishes, along with pricing examples:
Chrome Wraps:
These wraps have a sleek, reflective finish much like chrome metal or a mirror. Prices for chrome wraps typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the size and complexity of the vehicle.
The reason for this is the cost of material and difficulty of install for chrome. Chrome does not bend and wrap easily like most other vinyls, it can not be heated like a metallic finish. Cost is also 4x as much than say a matte black vinyl wrap.
Matte Wraps
Matte finishes provide a modern, sophisticated appearance with a non-reflective surface. Expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 for a matte wrap, depending on the vehicle's size and intricacy. Matte finishes have become very popular, so much that brands like Mercedes will paint them from the factory.
Their are many types of matte finishes, you have matte metallic, matte chrome which can cost $6,000 in material alone, frozen matte which can be a mix of a satin and matte look. More and more matte color options have become available to fit your desired look.
High Gloss Vinyl Wraps
High gloss wraps offer a shiny, reflective surface that adds depth and character to your vehicle. Prices for high gloss wraps vary but generally fall within the range of $$4,000 to $6,000 depending on color and finish options. The install is similar to regular gloss but the price of material is slightly higher.
Color Shifting Wraps
These wraps feature innovative color-shifting technology, providing a dynamic, ever-changing appearance. Prices for color-changing wraps typically start at $4,000 and can go up to $7,000 or more, depending on the brand and complexity of the installation. This film is typically what we call a direction film. Meaning the vinyl all needs to lay in the same direction to change color correctly.
These pricing examples serve as estimates and may vary based on factors such as the quality of the vinyl, the expertise of the installer, and any additional customization options. It's essential to consult with a professional installer to get an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Ford Bronco With Custom Color Printed Mint Green By Titan Wraps
Types of Vinyl Wrap Brands
When it comes to selecting a vinyl wrap for your vehicle, the brand you choose can significantly impact the quality and longevity of the wrap. Here's a closer look at some of the top vinyl wrap brands in the industry and the value they offer:
Avery Dennison Vinyl Wrap: Known for its high-quality vinyl films, Avery Dennison offers a wide range of colors, finishes, and specialty films to suit various preferences.Their wraps are renowned for their durability and ease of installation, making them a popular choice among professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. Prices for Avery wraps range from $3,000 to $5,000 for full wraps depending on the size and complexity of the vehicle.
3M Vinyl Wraps: As one of the most recognizable names in the industry, 3M is vinyl wraps are known for their exceptional durability, UV resistance, and color retention, ensuring your vehicle looks great for years to come. Prices for 3M wraps vary but generally fall within the range as Avery of $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the specific product and installation requirements.
Oracal: Oracal is another trusted name in the vinyl wrap industry, offering a diverse selection of colors, finishes, and specialty films. Their wraps are known for their affordability and ease of application, making them a popular choice. While still one of the best films on the market we don't use this for color change as 3M and Avery have slightly better quality.
Hexis: Now this is just my opinion, Hexis has exceptional quality in color. Their films don't have as much orange peel in their gloss color selections like some other brands. We don't use them because Avery and 3M have very similar color options but Hexis is not a user friendly film to install. Hexis needs to be feed squeegeed during install. For example, 3M and Avery can have entire panels glassed out and laid before applying pressure with a squeegee.
Hexis will always stick itself to the panel without the installer applying pressure to the film. This can cause problems when trying to push the air underneath out in certain directions. The film lacks air release so it will always create bubbles if not feed squeegeed. This will add several hours of install time for no real benefit.
While these are just a few examples of top vinyl wrap brands, it's essential to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. By investing in a high-quality vinyl wrap from a reputable brand, you can transform the look of your vehicle and enjoy long-lasting protection against the elements.
Porsche GT3 RS with Full Paint Protection Film and Full Ceramic Tint
Beware of Cheap Vehicle Wraps
While it may be tempting to opt for a cheap vehicle wrap to save money like Cheetah wrap or Inozetek, it's important to be wary of low-quality materials and installation. Cheap wraps may not adhere properly to the vehicle's surface, leading to peeling, bubbling, and other issues.
Cheap wraps may not offer the same level of protection against UV damage and environmental contaminants, potentially leading to premature fading and deterioration. When it comes to vinyl car wraps, it's best to invest in quality materials and professional installation to ensure long-lasting results.
How Much Time is Spent Wrapping a Car
The time required to wrap a car can vary depending on factors such as the size and shape of the vehicle, the design and the skill level of the installer. A full wrap can take anywhere from one to three days to complete, while a partial wrap may be finished in as little as a few hours. It also depends on the skill level of the installer. For us at Hooligan Wraps we can have many vehicles fully wrapped in one day.
Factors that can affect installation time include prepping the vehicle's surface, cutting and trimming the vinyl, and applying the wrap with precision and care.
Simple Vehicle Shapes:
Vehicles with simple, straightforward body shapes, such as Porsche, Tesla, and Mustang, are generally easier and more cost-effective to wrap. These vehicles typically have smooth surfaces and minimal contours, making them relatively easy for installers to work with. As a result, the labor and material costs for wrapping these vehicles are typically lower compared to more complex shapes. For example, a full wrap for a Porsche 911 or a Tesla Model 3 may range from $3,000 to $4,000, depending on the specific requirements and customization options.
Dodge Hellcat Vinyl Wrapped in 3M Matte Charcoal Metallic
Complex Vehicle Shapes:
On the other hand, vehicles with complex body shapes, such as McLaren, Ferrari and Lamborghini present unique challenges for installers due to their intricate designs and aerodynamic features. These vehicles often have sharp angles, curves, and contours that require extra attention and precision during the wrapping process.
As a result, the labor and material costs for wrapping these vehicles are typically higher. For example, a full wrap for a McLaren 720S or a Lamborghini Huracan may range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the level of customization and vinyl color choice.
Car Wraps and Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can have a significant impact on the lifespan and appearance of a vinyl car wrap. UV radiation from the sun can cause the colors and pigments in the vinyl to fade over time, leading to a dull and washed-out appearance. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause the vinyl to become brittle and crack.
To protect your car wrap from sun damage, it's important to park your vehicle in shaded areas whenever possible or use a car cover. We highly recommend having a professional apply a ceramic coating to the wrap to block UV damage.
Ceramic Coating a Vinyl Wrap
A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied to the surface of a vehicle wrap to provide an additional layer of protection. Once applied, the coating chemically bonds with the surface of the wrap, creating a transparent layer that acts as a barrier against UV radiation, environmental contaminants, and other harmful elements.
Ceramic coatings offer several benefits for vinyl wraps, including enhanced durability, UV protection, scratch resistance, and ease of maintenance. By applying a ceramic coating to a vinyl wrap, you can significantly prolong the lifespan of the wrap and maintain its appearance for longer periods. If your going to spend a few thousand dollars to protect your vehicle, you want to spend a fraction of that to prolong the lifespan on the car wrap.
There are different types of ceramic coatings available, some designed for paint and others for vinyl wraps. When applying a ceramic coating to a vinyl wrap, multiple layers can be applied to increase protection and durability.
The cost of ceramic coating a car vinyl wrap can vary such as the type of coating used and the size of the vehicle. Generally, ceramic coatings are priced per layer, with each layer costing between $400 and $600, depending on the finish. For example, a matte vinyl wrap may require more ceramic coating to achieve full coverage, while a chrome wrap may require less coating but more labor due to a more detailed leveling process.
Despite the additional cost, ceramic coating is highly recommended for all vinyl wraps, as it provides an extra layer of protection and helps to maintain the appearance of the wrap for a much longer period. Investing in a ceramic coating can ultimately save you money in the long run by extending the lifespan of your vinyl wrap and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Is a Vehicle Wrap Worth It
Are vinyl car wraps worth the investment? The answer depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. While vinyl car wraps offer many benefits, including customization, protection, and resale value, they may not be the right choice for everyone.
Before committing to a car wrap, it's important to weigh the pros and cons, consider your long-term goals, and budget accordingly. If you're looking to customize your vehicle and protect its paint job without breaking the bank, a vinyl car wrap is worth considering.
Vehicle Types
Vinyl car wraps can be applied to a wide range of vehicle types, including cars, trucks, vans, and motorcycles. Each type of vehicle presents its own unique challenges and considerations when it comes to wrapping. It's important to work with a qualified and experienced installer who understands the details of your vehicle.