How much does it cost to vinyl wrap a car is one of the most common questions keeping the many car owners awake at night. If you are unfamiliar, vinyl wrapping has become one of the most popular ways to customize and protect your vehicle.
Whether you desire to protect your car’s original point, add a unique finish, or simply change the color, vinyl wraps offer a temporary yet versatile solution. Wrapping is an affordable option compared to buying a new car or painting one to make it look like a new one, but it is not free.
But how much does it cost to wrap a car? We’ll help you find out below. In this blog, we will explore the car wrapping prices, various factors influencing the process, pros and cons of wrapping a car, and more.
What Is Vinyl Wrapping?
Vinyl wrapping is a car maintenance process that involves applying a large sheet of vinyl film to the surface of a vehicle. This film is specially designed to adhere to the car’s body and thus can be molded to fit every curve and edge of your ride.
Unlike traditional paint jobs, vinyl wraps can be easily removed without damaging the original paint, making them a great option for temporary customization or protection. You can remove it and opt for a new one as per your desire.
Different Types Of Car Wrap Finishes
There are several types of vinyl wraps available from various car wrap manufacturers. Some are even divided into subcategories, giving you a more precise choice to consider.
Each type has its own appeal and pricing, giving you the freedom to choose based on your style and budget. Top premium car wrap brands like 3M car wrap cost their vinyl wrap in 15-square-inch increments. It costs you $1 for their gloss vinyl wrap, $3 for their carbon fiber wrap, and $2 for their chrome vinyl wrap.
Thus, you can see how picking something extravagant over the basics increases the overall price of the job.
Below, I have some of the most common car wrap colors or vinyl finishes you can consider for your Volvo car or any other automotive brand that you own.
- Gloss: This is the closest finish you can get to most factory paints. Gloss is shiny, and its subcategories include metallic gloss and high gloss.
- Matte: This finish emphasizes a vehicle’s contours and styling cues. A matte finish is flat rather than glossy.
- Satin: The satin car wrap finish falls somewhere in between gloss and matte. It still shows off your vehicle’s contours, but with a bit of shine and sparkle.
- Color-Shift: This is another vinyl wrap falling under the gloss umbrella. It appears to change colors when viewed from different angles.
- Carbon Fiber: A real carbon fiber vinyl wrap adds a bit of texture to your car’s typically smooth finish. It weighs less than the sheet metal it replaces. A carbon fiber wrap provides the illusion of the performance cars at a fraction of the cost of the real thing.
So, if you were thinking how much does it cost to wrap a car black or any other color, the answer is based on which type of finish you choose.
Types Of Vehicle Wrap Coverage
Vehicle wrap is not something that you need to do on the entire body of your car. You may have to go all the way through with the car body paint, but with vinyl wrap, you can choose which parts and how much you want to get covered.
There are typically two types in which you can vinyl wrap your car:
Full Car Wraps
If you choose full-wrap coverage, it means the entire exterior of your vehicle, from hood to trunk, and everything in between, will be covered. This type of wrap is ideal if you wish to make a bold statement or wish to completely revamp the look of your older truck with good gas mileage or any other type of ride you own.
Partial Car Wraps
The partial car wraps cover only a portion of the exterior of your vehicle. These ones are typically used by car owners to add accents or highlights to certain areas of your ride’s body. This type of car wrap is best for those car owners who want to give their car a unique, customized look but do not wish to spend on a full vehicle wrap.
However, whatever type of vehicle wrap coverage you choose, it will play a significant role in your overall car wrapping costs.
Pros And Cons Of Wrapping a Car
Before we move ahead and explore how much does it cost to get a car wrapped, first let’s understand what the advantages and disadvantages of wrapping a car are. There are many reasons why anyone would choose wrapping their car over painting it or buying a new one. Despite being a great alternative to maintaining a vehicle, this process is not untouched from having good and bad sides to it.
Pros of Car Wrapping
- More affordable option than painting
- Protects your vehicle’s original paint
- No waxing is required
- Hundreds of color options for you to choose from
- Easy to remove
Cons of Car Wrapping
- A car wrap’s life expectancy is no more than seven years
- Vinyl wrap cannot hide dents, dings, or deep scratches
- Not inexpensive
- It is a complex task and requires professional assistance in most cases
- A car’s surface must be pristine-clean before wrap application
Top 7 Factors Affecting The Car Wrap Cost
Before we discuss how much it costs to wrap your car in vinyl, I think it is clever if you take a look at the various factors that contribute to your car wrap cost.
From the size of your vehicle and the type of vinyl wrap you choose to the complexity of the job and others, affect how much you will have to pay.
Here, I have listed all the crucial factors that directly contribute to the overall cost of vinyl wrapping. You can look into these factors and use a vehicle wrap pricing calculator online to get an estimate on the overall expense.
Size of the Vehicle
The size of your ride affects your car wrapping cost. Larger vehicles require more vinyl material and labor, naturally increasing the price compared to a small ride. For example, wrapping an SUV or truck like the Ford F-150 will cost more than a compact car like the Toyota Camry.
Type Of Vinyl Wrap
Different vinyl wrap finishes come with varying price tags. High-end finishes like chrome or carbon fiber wraps are more expensive compared to standard gloss or matte finishes. Not only this, chrome wraps can even double the price of a standard wrap due to the complexity and material costs.
Quality Of Vinyl Materials
The better the quality of the vinyl material you choose, the more you will have to pay. However, it is not a bad thing, as high-quality vinyl wraps offer better durability and longevity compared to cheaper alternatives. Premium brands like 3M and Avery Dennison are known for their high-quality vinyl wraps.
Complexity of the Job
The level of complexity to get the job done on your car also contributes to the overall wrapping cost. The vehicles with intricate bodywork like complex curves, deep creases, or unique shapes take more time and skill to wrap, making the process more labor-intensive and increasing the labor costs.
Geographic Location
The vinyl wrap installation costs can also vary depending on your location. If you live in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living, you might be charged more for vinyl wrap installations than if you were residing in rural or suburban areas.
Installer’s Expertise
The expertise of the installer you choose also plays a key role. Professional installers with a strong reputation or specialized skills may charge more than others. But in my opinion, spending on them is worth it as they ensure a higher-quality finish that lasts longer.
Wrap Coverage
The extent of wrap coverage impacts the cost. The price of wrapping your entire ride will be more compared to wrapping only a few sections of your ride. The more area of your car you decide to wrap, the more you will have to pay.
Additional Costs to Consider
Apart from the above-mentioned basic factors, there are some additional costs that you must consider in order to analyze whether you can afford a vinyl wrap job for your car or not. Please do not be ignorant of these additional factors, as you are bound to encounter them on your way.
Labor Costs
Labor charges account for a significant portion of the total cost you will be paying for the wrapping job. Generally, a professional installer may charge you between $500 and $2,500, depending on the size and complexity of the vehicle.
Removal of Previous Wrap or Paint Correction
If your ride has an existing wrap, then it needs to be removed, and you will have to pay extra for this service. Similarly, any surface imperfections, like scratches or chips, will need to be corrected before the wrap can be applied, adding more to the overall price.
Customization Options
If you wish to add custom graphics, logos, or patterns to your vinyl wrap, it will increase our overall price. It is because customization of any kind requires additional design and application time.
Maintenance Costs
Vinyl wraps are relatively low maintenance; however, there are costs associated with keeping them clean and looking good. You may have to purchase special cleaning products to avoid damaging the wrap. Also, regular upkeep is a must to maintain the wrap’s longevity.
How Much Does It Cost To Vinyl Wrap a Car?
Vinyl wrapping your can can be an expensive task. However, it is a small price to pay compared to the eye-catching and satisfying results you get.
The cost of vinyl wrapping a car can vary greatly depending on several factors, like the size of the vehicle, type of wrap material used, wrap style, and more.
On average, the total wrap cost can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on all the factors mentioned in the section above. While it might seem too much for many car owners, compared to the repainting cost of over $10,000 and the new car price of over $20,000, car wrapping is indeed an affordable option.
Cost To Wrap a Car By Segment/Body Style
During my research, I found out that the cost to wrap a car is affected by its body style. The smaller the car, the less you pay, while the bigger the car, the more you will pay. Also, luxury has a crucial role to play.
For example, let us consider a scenario where there are two people, A and B. Both these people own a sedan and wish to Vinylwrap their ride. When the process is done, A ends up paying more than B because A owned a luxury sedan whereas B had an economic one.
Let us consider another scenario where A owns a hatchback and B owns a large van. Both of these people vinyl-wrapped their ride, and in the end, B ended up paying more simply because he owned a large-sized ride. Thus, you can easily see how the segment, body style, or size of your vehicle affects the overall cost for vinyl wrapping it.
| Vehicle Segment | Estimated Cost |
| Small car | $1,800-$2,500 |
| Hatchback | $2,800-$3,500 |
| Convertible | $2,800-$4,000 |
| Coupe | $2,800-$4,000 |
| Sedan | $3,000-$4,500 |
| Small SUV | $3,200-$4,500 |
| Large SUV/Sedan | $3,500-$5,000 |
| Pickup Truck | $3,200-$5,000 |
| Small Van | $3,000-$4,500 |
| Large Van | $3,200-$4,500 |
| Truck Cab | $3,000-$10,000 |
| Luxury Vehicle | $5,500-$10,000 |
Cost To Wrap a Car By Coverage
One of the best things about wrapping a car is that you pay by the area you cover. If you vinyl wrap your ride partially, you will pay only for that. It does not matter if the time required is equivalent or more to what it takes to fully wrap another ride.
In other words, you only pay for the level of coverage you choose. So, if you were contemplating how much does it cost to wrap a car hood and mirrors, it might cost you between $300 and $1,000, depending on the material and design.
Cost To Wrap a Car By Yourself
If you are handy with cars and have experience in wrapping, then opting for a DIY vinyl wrap can save you a lot of money. The answer to your DIY-related queries, like how much does it cost to wrap a car yourself, lies in the DIY kit you purchase.
Currently, DIY kits available in the US range from $500 to $2,000. However, if you are not careful during the process, mistakes resulting in bubbles, peeling, or uneven finishes can be made, leading to more expense at your hands.
Cost Of Professional Installation
Hiring a professional to do your vehicle’s vinyl wrap is going to be costly, but it will ensure the job is done right. In general, professional vinyl wrapping costs typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of your vehicle.
Also, the type of wrap or specialized finish you choose and location of the installer drive the overall cost higher than you have anticipated.
One thing I would like to clear here is that while opting for professional installation costs more, the professional installers offer warranties and guarantees, ensuring that your wrap lasts for the long term without issues.
How Long Does a Car Wrap Last?
On average, a high-quality vinyl wrap can last 5 to 7 years, depending on the materials and how well you maintain it. Factors like exposure to sunlight, extreme weather, and regular cleaning can affect the longevity of your vinyl car wrap.
Minor damage like scratches or peeling to your wrap can be repaired, but larger issues may require re-wrapping certain areas. The vinyl wrap repair costs typically range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the extent of the damage.
One of the easiest ways to increase the longevity of your vinyl wrap and dodge the repair costs is to follow the right maintenance techniques. Below I have listed some easy yet effective tips that will help you prolong your car wrap’s life.
6 Tips For Vinyl Wrap Maintenance
The basics of maintaining a vinyl car wrap involve regular washing and avoiding harsh chemicals. It’s best to use a vinyl-safe cleaner and a microfiber cloth to keep the wrap in top shape. However, if you wish to take your maintenance game to the next level, I recommend you take a look at the upkeep tips mentioned below:
Ceramic Coating
If you can afford to splurge, then I would recommend doing a ceramic coating over your freshly applied vinyl wrap. It will add another $1,200 to $1,500 to your overall cost, but professional ceramic costing will provide a layer of protection. It will protect your new car wrap against hazards like bird droppings, bugs, tree sap, and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Not only this, ceramic coating also adds some protection against scratches and dings, keeping your finish fresh and shiny without requiring waxing.
Regular Cleaning
Do not lazy out on the regular cleaning. Never let bug guts, bird poop, tree sap, and other toxic matter sit on your car’s’ surface for too long. Clean the surface as soon as you find any such chemical matter. Because if you do not take immediate actions, these matters will eat away at the vinyl wrap like what they do to car paint.
Only Hand-Cleaning
Avoid using drive-thru and automatic car washes, as their brushes can damage the wrap. Hand-washing is the best way to get the cleaning job done. You can use a jet washer, but only if the spray nozzles are at an appropriate distance from the vehicle’s surface.
Vinyl-Safe Car Shampoo
Always use Vinyl Safe or PH-neutral car shampoo to clean your ride. Also, prefer to opt for hand washing, as it will be more gentle and ideal for your regular car washing.
Avoid Wax
Avoid waxing over your car wrap. Many car waxes contain abrasives that can easily damage your vinyl car wrap. They are harmful for your newly applied car wrap, and thus, it is better to avoid them. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.
Minimize Exposure To Sunlight
Vinyl wraps, when constantly exposed to intense direct sunlight, tend to fade faster. If you do not take care of where you park your car and for how long, the prolonged exposure to intense direct UV rays will ruin the quality and color of your wrap much faster than you have anticipated.
Benefits Of Car Wrapping
With the help of a car wrap, you can give your vehicle an eye-catching transformation without making any permanent changes to its parts.
The price for car wrap varies based on several factors, but despite this, it is surprisingly affordable compared to traditional paint jobs. So, if you were contemplating car wrap cost vs paint, the former one is the more affordable way to give your ride a makeover.
Car wraps offer many benefits that make them worth your consideration:
- Durability: Vinyl car wraps are resistant to fading, scratches, and other damages associated with regular wear and tear. In simpler words, the everyday harms that your car paint is unable to handle, car wraps can take care of.
- Visual Appeal: There are a number of color and design options available, making it easier for you to find something that will make your ride unique and stand out among the crowd. In addition, you can even customize the wraps with logos or artworks.
- Cost Savings: Car wrapping costs significantly less than a traditional paint job. Also, the cost of the wrap is always discussed and fixed upfront, eliminating the possibility of any unexpected expenses along the way.
- Protection: Unlike car paint, wraps act as a protective shield against debris, dirt, and other environmental or external factors that could damage your vehicle’s finish over time.
- Versatility: If down the road you decide to change things up down the road, the removal is quite easy. The best thing is that removal does not require repainting or refinishing work, which is a must with a paint job.
2 Best Alternatives To Car Wrapping
If you find the process of car wrapping not up to your ally but still desire to customize your ride to your heart’s desires and give it an eye-catching makeover, there are many alternatives that you can choose.
Vinyl Decals
The vinyl decals are a great way to add personalization and flair to your automobile without the expense of applying them. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, are quick and easy to install, and require no special tools or skills.
Paint Protection Film
The paint protection film provides coverage against stone chips, scratches, and other minor damages and keeps your ride looking like a new one. Like the car wraps, the paint protection film also comes in many different finishes, allowing you to choose something that matches your taste.
Conclusion
Vinyl wrapping is a customizable and protective solution for car owners who want to change the look of their vehicle but wish to avoid a new paint job. The cost to vinyl wrap a car varies depending on factors such as the size of the vehicle, the complexity of the wrap, and the quality of the vinyl.
The general price ranges between $1,500 and $5,000, which is still cheaper compared to a new paint job. However, before you make a final decision, it is important to weigh the pros and cons.
Remember to choose a reputable installer and opt for high-quality materials to ensure the best results. Whether you’re looking for a new aesthetic or added protection, vinyl wrapping can be a worthwhile investment for your vehicle.
Related FAQs
Why vinyl wraps for cars are popular?
The Vinyl wraps offer numerous benefits, making them a better choice for changing the outlook of your car. They provide a degree of personalization, protection from scratches, UR rays, and other environmental damages, are easy to remove, and are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to advertise.
Is vinyl car wrap worth it?
The Vinyl car wrap is a great way for all kinds of car owners to change the color, style, or outlook of their vehicle. Whether you want to change the color or hide the fading or damaged paint, the car wrapping method provides you all while simultaneously protecting your ride.
Vinyl wrap won’t outlast a good paint job, but you will save a significant amount for sure.
Is it cheaper to wrap a car or paint a car?
When it comes to cost, wrapping a car is cheaper compared to painting it. On average, it costs $1,000 to $4,500 for a basic to mid-tier paint job and between $5,000 and $20,000 for a high-end, showroom-quality paint job. However, on average, it costs only $1,500 to $5,000 to wrap a car.
Is car wrapping permanent?
No. Car wrapping is a process where you apply a temporary layer over your vehicle’s body that can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
The removal of these wraps is also easy. All you need to know is what kind of vinyl wrap you have on your ride. For example, if it is waterproof, you will need a chemical solvent for removal. However, if you are unsure about the removal or do not possess the required tools, we recommend you seek professional assistance.
Does car wrapping damage the paint?
Wrapping your car with Vinyl will do no harm to your ride as long as you are careful with the process. Start by thoroughly cleaning your car’s surface and applying an adhesive promoter before applying the wrap. Doing this will ensure that the wrap sticks better and causes no damage when being removed.
