Do you aim to upgrade your vehicle’s looks while protecting it? Wrapping a car is a cheaper option than paint. You may change your vehicle’s color and protect its body from potential environmental hazards. You can make your vehicle unique and beautiful. Applying vinyl wrap on your vehicle is a long-lasting solution whether you aim to transform your vehicle or conceal dents or scratches.
The question arises: how much does it cost to wrap a car? Auto Boss experts guide you through different factors that affect car wrapping prices. When you know these factors, it is much easier to select an alternative. You can get a fair price only when you have enough research before handing over the project to anyone.
Keep reading our expert guide and give your vehicle a gorgeous look without breaking the bank.
Factors affecting the cost of wrapping a car
While discussing car wrap prices, some factors are necessary to consider.
Vehicle size
Wrapping a large vehicle requires more labor, time, and material. If you own a large fleet, the wrap material needed will be more than necessary for a compact car.
Vehicle type and model
It is also an important factor when calculating the cost of wrapping a car. For instance, a luxury vehicle requires more expertise and skill to wrap it. A small and complex vehicle will cost more than a larger but simple vehicle.
Quality and brand of the vinyl film
Quality does matter when you want long-term protection for your vehicle. Reputable brands like 3M or Vivid charge more than a new brand. However, these brands provide a warranty from 5 years to a lifetime. At the same time, new or unknown brand wraps are inexpensive at the start, and they start fading or bubbles appear on their surface. The low-quality vinyl wraps can even peel off or prematurely aged.
Vinyl wrap types
The types of vinyl wrap also affect the overall car cost. Some of the vinyl wraps are more costly than others. For example, a glossy, simple wrap is cheaper than a chrome or metalized wrapping film.
Partial or full-body car wrap
A full-body car wrap can cost more than partial or panel wrapping. Partial wrapping requires less wrap, labor, and time to complete the project. With partial wrapping, you can also give your vehicle a unique and elegant look. Partial car wrapping includes wrapping your vehicle’s hoods, fenders, or bonnet. The cost to wrap a car partially depends on the number of regions you aim to wrap.
However, full-body car wrapping requires more work, quantity, and time to wrap your car. The cost of vinyl material is higher than that of partial car wrap.
Installation cost
The installation cost of wrapping your car is multi-folded. Generally, it also depends on different factors, including:
Make and model of the vehicle: wrapping a luxury car is more costly than a simple, compact car. Luxury vehicles require more time and expertise from the installer.
Installer’s experience: An experienced installer usually charges more than an inexperienced one. However, hiring a professional installer is beneficial in the long run. They provide you with work as well as a material warranty. Work warranty means they can rectify any mistake without additional cost. An experienced installer also ensures better communication and consultation than an inexperienced one.
Location of the installer: The installer’s location matters the most when calculating the cost of wrapping a car. A wrap installer operating in rural areas charges less because their operational costs are lower. An installer working in urban areas charges more because of increased operational costs.
Operating locally or nationally: By hiring an installer operating locally, you can save travel costs. You can also visit them to check their progress or how they treat your vehicle. When you hire a car wrapping company operating in larger cities or internationally, it isn’t easy to reach their workspace. Secondly, you must pay for the fuel when you take your vehicle to them. You must pay for the conveyance when you leave the car for the wrapping process.
Climate: When you wrap a vehicle in very cold temperatures, the car’s cost increases because you must heat the wrapping film continuously to let it stick to its surface. However, you must pay less for the car wrapping in summer because you don’t need to heat the wrapping film. The time to install and cure the wrap in winter is longer than in summer. Auto Boss experts suggest getting the vehicle wrapped in mid-season. Avoid getting your car wrapped in harsh weather to save your money.
DIY/ Professional car wrapping
DIY car wrapping requires an installation kit, specified tools, and a controlled environment. The DIY car wrapping kits are far cheaper than professional wrapping. However, if you don’t have anyone to help you, it can be risky to have vinyl wrapping. When you apply vinyl wrap by yourself, air can be trapped beneath the film, causing blisters or bubbles. Repositioning the wrapping film can lead to peeling or tearing off. You may have to pay more to buy a new wrapping film and get it installed.
Professional wrapping gives you peace of mind. Although it seems expensive initially, you can get the finest and longest-lasting finishes without any hassle.
The average car wrapping cost
The full body car wrap cost generally lies between $2000 to $5000 for an average car. However, partial car wrap prices start at $500 and increase depending on the coverage level.
Conclusion
The cost to wrap a car depends on vehicle size, type, installation cost and many other factors. Although DIY car wrap installation is possible, it can combine with expensive mistakes. Professional car wrapping from Auto Boss will provide you with the seamless process and finest finishes.
FAQs
Is vehicle wrapping a permanent transformation?
No, wrapping your vehicle is not a permanent transformation. You can remove or replace your vehicle wrap and revert to your original factory paint.
Does car wrapping damage your vehicle paint?
No! But you need to prepare the surface of your car before getting it installed. You may damage your vehicle paint during the process if you are a DIYer.