The Pros and Cons of Wrapping Your Vehicle: A Quick Comprehensive Guide

Tired of your vehicle's stock paint job?? Considering a fresh new style?? Looking to make your business or brand stand out?? Vehicle wrapping might have caught your eye!! 

Vehicle wrapping offers endless customization options, design versatility and has become a trendy way to revamp your automobile, without committing to something permanent. 

Transforming your vehicle involves applying a thin vinyl film over the exterior to change its color, add graphics, and/or protect the paint underneath. We may also refer to this as the vehicle’s second skin. It's become hugely popular in recent years, thanks to advancements in materials and installation techniques. However, it's not all glossy finishes and head-turns - there are advantages and drawbacks to consider.

In this blog post, we'll touch on the key pros and cons of wrapping your vehicle. Whether you're eyeing a matte black beast or a custom design for your business fleet, this guide will help you decide if it's the right move.

The Pros of Vehicle Wrapping:

Wrapping isn't just about aesthetics; it offers practical benefits that can make it a smart choice over traditional painting. Here are some standout advantages:

1. Cost-Effective Customization

One of the biggest draws is the affordable price tag. A full vehicle wrap typically costs between $2,000 - $5,000, (based on the size of the car, any design/art work, wrap complexity, and material quality), which can be cheaper than the equivalent professional paint job that may run $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Partial wraps or simple design decals can be an even cheaper option. This makes it accessible for those wanting a dramatic change, have large fleets or just want to show personal styles. Become a mobile billboard without breaking the bank. Plus, you can go wild with colors, patterns, photorealistic images or even chrome finishes that would be impractical or impossible with paint. 

2. Protection for Your Paint

Think of a wrap as a shield for your vehicle's original finish. Some high-quality vinyl wraps have protective coatings that help repel UV rays, minor abrasions, rock chips, and environmental damage like bird droppings or tree sap. When it's time to remove the wrap, your paint should look as good as new - helping maintain the resale value. (With proper installation, care and professional removal)

Paint Protection Film (PPF) is an option for those looking to preserve the beauty of the original paint. Or if you're leasing, wraps/ppf can assist in preventing damage penalties by keeping original paint protected and allowing you to return the car in pristine condition.

3. Reversibility and Variety

Wraps are temporary - unlike paint. If you get bored, want to rebrand, or switch styles, you can remove the wrap without damaging the underlying surface (again, with professional installation/removal). This flexibility is appealing to trend-chasers, businesses using vehicles for seasonal advertising, or those who just like to change their style frequently. With an array of endless options (matte, gloss, satin, textured - even color-shifting films that change hue based on the angle) a wrap can showcase your individuality while being your most powerful marketing tool.

4. Quick Installation and Minimal Downtime

Don’t want to be without your ride for long?

A wrap can be applied, and ready for the road, in just a matter of days, compared to weeks for a paint job that requires sanding, priming, and curing. You can easily maintain the appearance of your new vehicle skin - just use a mild soap and water to wash.

5. Advertising Potential

For commercial use, wraps turn vehicles into mobile billboards. Studies show that vehicle wraps can generate thousands of impressions per day in urban areas, making them a cost-effective alternative to traditional marketing tools. They're durable enough to withstand weather and washing, ensuring your brand stays visible on the road.

The Cons of Vehicle Wrapping:

Of course, no upgrade is perfect. Wrapping has its pitfalls, especially if you're not prepared for the cost, maintenance or potential quality issues.

1. Lifespan Comparison

While a wrap can be cheaper than paint - it’s still a significant investment. Having a professionally installed wrap, along with proper care, can preserve the life of your vehicle skin for 5-7 years. The durability of factory paint can be 10 years+. Exposure to harsh sunlight, extreme temperatures, or poor washing habits can cause fading, peeling, or bubbling to happen sooner.

2. Installation Quality Matters - A Lot!!!!

A bad wrap job can look worse than no wrap at all. Bubbles, wrinkles, or mismatched seams are just a few common mishaps that can be avoided by using a professional, certified installer. DIY kits exist, although a good majority of them are lacking in quality material and provide no room for error. DIY attempts often fail spectacularly, leading to wasted materials, time and money. Improper installs can range from wrap durability, appearance, and lifespan, to more severe issues, like peeling paint or damaging the actual body of the vehicle.

3. Maintenance Requirements

Wraps need some basic care - ex: no automated car washes with brushes, as they can scratch the vinyl. Hand washing with gentle soaps is recommended, and you'll want to avoid using harsh chemicals, pressure washers, and abrasive tools. If you live in a salty or polluted area, extra upkeep may be necessary to prevent edge lifting or discoloration.

4. Potential for Damage During Removal

Although wraps are designed to be removable, improper removal, or older, low-quality wraps might leave adhesive residue or possibly even pull off paint of the original finish. This risk increases if the wrap has been on for an excessive number of years, exposed to extreme conditions, or vehicle not being properly prepped.

5. Limited Warranty and Resale Impact

Most wraps come with warranties of 3-5 years, but they often exclude damage from improper care. On the resale front, while a wrap can protect paint, some buyers might prefer an unwrapped vehicle.

6. Perfectly Imperfect

A wrap will not hide major paint flaws or blemishes.

Your vehicle skin will still show imperfections like dents, deep scratches, rust areas and similar issues.

Wrapping over some of these problemed areas can actually cause more harm - like lifting/peeling of wrap and/or complications during removal process. It is highly recommended to address any paint or body repairs prior to wrapping - this will ensure the best results. 

Let’s Wrap It Up: Is Vehicle Wrapping Right for You?

Ultimately, vehicle wrapping will depend on your purpose - it shines for those seeking affordable, influential customization with added protection - ideal for personal style statements, business branding visibility, or short-term changes. Those looking to make a statement or advertising on the go, wraps could be a game-changer. However, if you're after longevity, simplicity and low maintenance, sticking with paint might be better suited for you.

Pro Tip - Research reputable, certified installers, confirm they invest in premium materials (like 3M or Avery vinyl), check on warranty, read reviews, consider your goals and driving environment. 

If you're still on the fence, reach out and discuss your concerns or ideas with us here at Ohio Wraps!

Share your experiences in the comments - We'd love to hear your stories or pro tips! 

If you drive, advertise! 

Until next time…

Stay Safe!