How to properly wash and maintain a wrapped vehicle?

Do’s :

1. Wash vehicle in the shade or avoid washing vehicle while the body is hot or under direct sunlight.
2. It is best to wash wrapped vehicles once every 2 weeks to maintain surface cleanliness as one would on a painted vehicle.
3. Rinse dirt off vehicle with room temperature water using standard low pressure garden hose nozzle as seen in Figure 1.
4. Dilute mild car wash detergent (non abrasive, silicone emulsion free) in cold water based on manufacturer’s recommended ratio.
5. Using soft sponge or non abrasive cloth, hand wash wrapped vehicle with car wash solution.
6. Rinse soapy water off with water and dry using synthetic shammy or low microfiber fabric.
7. Gentle wiping of sensitive areas such as door handles, moldings, mirrors and seams is highly recommended.
8. When possible, store vehicle in garage or shaded area to reduce extended outdoor exposure.

Dont’s:

1. Wash using hot water.
2. Petroleum based, acidic or strong cleaning agent.
3. Automatic or mechanical car washes with harsh rotated brushes.
4. Abrasive products that would scratch paint or vinyl surface.
   
   

Wrapped vehicles can also be cleaned using a pressure washer. However, caution must be taken to avoid damaging the wrap due to improperly handling the water spray or incorrectly blending the cleaning solutions.

Below are some guidelines to follow:

1. Nozzle pressure should never exceed 1,300 PSI.  
2. Water temperature should never exceed 140°F (60°C).
3. Nozzle tip should never be closer than five feet from the graphics.
4. Angle of water spray should be no shallower than 60° from perpendicular. Keep the nozzle spray pattern perpendicular to the overlapping direction.
5. Detergent solutions should always be blended with water at the correct ratio and pH (between 6 and 8). A more concentrated solution can damage both the adhesive and vinyl.
6. A post-washing, fresh-water rinse will help maintain the life of the paint and vinyl.