Introduction
Vinyl wrapping your Dodge Charger can be an excellent way to enhance its appearance while protecting its original paintwork, but in order to keep its wrap looking great for years, proper care and maintenance is absolutely essential. From matte black finishes to bold color shift finishes, taking the steps needed to clean and protect it will ensure it remains looking its best for years. In this guide we cover everything you need to know about caring for its vinyl wrap.
Why Proper Care for Your Dodge Charger Wrap Is Important
Proper care for your Dodge Charger wrap is critical to its vibrant appearance and ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Properly maintained wraps not only protect the original paint of your Charger but also keep its overall look fresh and new; without care, however, its wrap could fade, peel or become damaged from scratches that diminish its look further and compromise its value as an asset for any car owner.
How to Wash Your Dodge Charger Wrap
Routine washing of your Dodge Charger wrap is one of the easiest and most essential steps towards protecting it properly. Here is how you can do it right:
Hand Washing Is Preferred:
Whilst there are various methods for cleaning your vinyl-wrapped Dodge Charger, hand washing remains the safest approach. A soft microfiber cloth or sponge, combined with non-abrasive car soap should do just fine - harsh chemicals, abrasive brushes or rough sponges could damage or scratch its wrap surface if used incorrectly. Follow these steps for a comprehensive wash:
- Clean the car thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Dilute car soap in water using the microfiber cloth for gentle wrapping cleaning from top to bottom using microfibre cloths, using them from top down.
- Rinse again to rinse away all soap residue.
- Dry your car using a clean, soft microfiber towel in order to avoid water spots.
Avoid Automatic Car Washes:
Automatic car washes with brushes can be too aggressive on vinyl wraps, scratching or lifting edges from underneath it and potentially causing damage. To use an automated car wash safely and responsibly, opt for one using water jets rather than brushes; though hand washing should always be preferred as a form of car care.
Protect Your Dodge Charger Wrap from the Elements
Your Dodge Charger wrap is constantly exposed to harsh elements, which may reduce its longevity over time. Here are some tips for protecting it:
Park Your Charger in a Shaded or Garage Area
Overexposure to sunlight can cause its vinyl wrap to fade over time, so when possible park your Dodge Charger in a garage or shaded area to protect it from UV rays and preserve its vibrant hue and finish. Doing this will preserve its vibrant appearance for longer.
Utilize a Car Cover
If you don't have access to a garage or shade area, using a high-quality car cover may provide another effective method for protecting your Charger against dirt, debris, and harmful UV rays while it sits outside.
Limit Prolonged Exposure to Harsh Weather
Rain, snow and extreme temperatures can take their toll on vinyl wraps over time. While most wraps can withstand most climate conditions, for optimal results it's best not to leave your Charger out in severe conditions for too long. In areas with harsh winters or intense sunlight consider investing in protective wax or sealant specifically made for vinyl wraps as extra shield against harsh elements.
Removing Stains and Contaminants:
Over time, your Dodge Charger wrap may become stained by bird droppings, tree sap or road grime. Here's how you can safely eliminate it:
Clean Contaminants Quickly
The longer contaminants sit on vinyl wrap, the greater their risk of staining or damaging it is. Once you notice bird droppings, tree sap or any other forms of staining on it - whether from bird droppings, tree sap or other sources - remove it right away with water using a soft cloth; for tougher spots use either specialized vinyl wrap cleaners or mixture of 50% isopropyl alcohol and 50% water.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Solvents
Never use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on a vinyl wrap, as these may damage its surface. Products like acetone, gasoline and paint thinner should be avoided in favor of cleaners designed to protect vinyl wraps such as mild soap and water cleaners or cleaners specifically tailored for vinyl wraps.
Caring for Specific Vinyl Wrap Finishes
Specific vinyl wrap finishes require unique care procedures, here is how to care for popular wrap finishes on your Dodge Charger:
Caring for Matte Vinyl Wraps
Matte finishes require special care when maintaining their matte surface. Wax or polish products that add unwanted shine are best avoided; instead use a matte-specific cleaning solution instead and avoid materials which could scratch it.
Caring for Gloss and Metallic Wraps
Glossy and metallic wraps may benefit from occasional polishing to preserve their shine, using non-abrasive vinyl wrap polishes designed specifically for vinyl wrap surfaces to give it a polished, shiny finish without damaging it. When applying polish use a soft microfiber cloth in order to avoid scratches.
Caring for Color Shift and Chrome Wraps
Color shift and chrome wraps are beloved products with unique finishes that may be vulnerable to scratches and contaminants, so careful handling is needed in their care. Pressure washers or harsh cleaners should never be used on them; hand washing with mild cleaning solutions will preserve their dynamic looks more effectively.
Avoiding Damage and Common Mistakes
To maintain a pristine appearance for your Dodge Charger wrap, avoid these common errors:
Don't Use Wax and Buffers on Matte Wraps
While wax and buffing tools can work wonders when applied to shiny finishes, they should never be used on matte wraps - these products could potentially ruin their matte appearance! Instead, opt for matte-specific products to clean and protect the wrap in its entirety.
Be Wary When Refueling
When fueling up your Dodge Charger, take special care not to spill gasoline onto its wrap. Doing so could damage its vinyl fabric permanently and should be immediately wiped up using water and a soft cloth.
Avoid Pressure Washers
Washing your vinyl wrap can damage it over time if exposed to high-pressure water, leading it to peel away. If using a pressure washer, keep its nozzle at least a foot from its surface and set the lowest pressure setting possible.
Conclusion
Proper care of your Dodge Charger wrap is vital to its appearance and lasting for years. By regularly washing it by hand, protecting it from harsh weather conditions and using cleaning products designed specifically to maintain wraps, you can keep its appearance as fresh as the day it was applied. No matter if you opt for matte or bold color shift options - following these care instructions will allow you to enjoy its new look long into the future!
