Quick Answer
The best way to maintain the appearance of a wrapped Mustang is to use a mild, wrap-safe automotive soap to wash your hands frequently, use a clean microfiber towel, and promptly remove bird droppings, bugs, tree sap and road grime. Do not use abrasive brushes, harsh chemicals or high-pressure water directly against the edges or seams of vinyl. Indoor or shade parking is also beneficial to decrease long-term UV and heat exposure.
When inspecting a Mustang, be sure to check the front bumper, the hood, the roof, the trunk, the mirror edges, rocker panels, and the spoilers. These areas tend to see more sunlight, road contamination, washing stress, or exposed edges than flatter and more protected sections of the vehicle.
Why Mustang Wrap Care Matters
Although a vinyl wrap will alter the look of your Mustang, it's still an exterior surface that is exposed daily to the sun, heat, rain, road grime, insects, bird droppings, tree sap, and washing.
With proper care the wrap will retain its appearance, hold, and color and will minimize staining, fading early, scratches to the surface and lifting around edges.
Based on our experience, Mustang wraps are of special interest, as a number of prominent wrap panels are exposed to the environment. The upper quarter panels, trunk, and roof are exposed to direct sun for a significant amount of time, and the front bumper and rocker panels accumulate bugs, dirt, road film and debris.
The edges of mirrors, bumpers, vents and aftermarket aero parts should be inspected regularly as well. These areas are more prone to tension at the time of installation and to aggressive washing or to repeated pressure of high velocity water.
There is no need for complicated detailing for good wrap maintenance. Routine, gentle cleaning and prompt response to contamination are more important than trying to aggressively polish or use harsh chemicals. At RAXTiFY, we suggest that the wrap be treated based upon the type of finish as opposed to assuming that all gloss, matte, satin, chrome and specialty vinyl finishes should be maintained alike.
How to Wash a Wrapped Mustang
One of the easiest methods of maintaining a Mustang vinyl wrap is to wash it regularly. When these elements remain on the surface for extended periods, they are more difficult to clean up: dust, road film, bugs, bird droppings, and other contaminants.
We strongly suggest that you do not use any automated system to clean most wrapped Mustangs; we recommend gentle hand washing. The purpose of the film is not only to wash away dirt, but also to clean the film without scratching the finish, bending the exposed edges, or getting contaminants into the finish.
Wait Before the First Wash
Be sure to allow the adhesive to form before washing vehicle after a fresh wrap installation.
RaxTIFY vinyl wraps should be left for a minimum of 48 hours after installation before washing. Do not pressure wash, do not expose to heavy rain (where possible) or anything that may drive water under new edges and seams during this period.
If your installer provides a longer wait period due to what type of film, weather, or installation environment, adhere to those guidelines.
This is particularly crucial at locations like door edges, vinyl that has been stretched or wrapped around hard corners, bumpers and mirrors around Mustang hoods.
Rinse Loose Dirt First
Avoid going to work on the dusty or soiled Mustang right away.
Start by flushing off loose sand, dust, pollen and road dirt with a gentle water flush. This minimizes the risk of any abrasive particles being dragged along during cleaning.
Mustangs tend to trap dirt and grime in the front bumper, lower doors, rocker panels, and rear quarter areas, so be extra vigilant in these areas.
This step is all the more important on dark gloss and metallic wraps as fine wash marks are more likely to be noticeable in direct sunlight.
Use a Mild, Wrap-Safe Soap
Apply a gentle, non-abrasive auto shampoo that is approved for vinyl wrapped surfaces. The most general recommended car wash soap is one that is neutral on a pH level and is safe for regular washing.
Unless the product has been expressly identified as safe for the film being used, do not use harsh degreasers, abrasive cleaners, strong solvents and household detergents.
Various finishes might also respond differently to cleaning products. The simple application of a gloss film or matte film does not automatically mean that both should be treated the same.It is not a rule that a gloss film or a matte film should be treated exactly the same.
If you're not sure, try the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous section of the vehicle before applying it everywhere.
Wash From the Top Down
Wash your Mustang from the cleanest areas toward the dirtiest ones. A practical order is:
roof → glass line → hood → trunk → upper body panels → doors → bumpers → rocker panels
This will help to keep dirt from the bottom of the car from being transferred back to the clean surfaces.
Avoid applying pressure with a wash mitt or scrubbing with microfiber (circular motion).
Use lighter pressure around edges, seams, emblems, spoilers and body gaps of vinyl. These areas do not require heavy scrubbing in order to get them clean.
Dry With Clean Microfiber Towels
Avoid leaving a wrapped Mustang in the sun while water evaporates from the surface.
Mineral rich water can cause water stains to appear on the hood, roof, trunk and upper quarter panels.
Rinse and pat dry with clean soft microfiber towels. Avoid heavy rubbing, patting or lightly wiping.
Make sure your towels are clean. A microfiber towel can produce even more surface marking than the wash itself can.
If you want to get a nice shine and a dark coloured wrap, we suggest that you don't just use one dirty towel to repeatedly dry down the entire vehicle, but rather use multiple clean towels.
Can You Pressure Wash a Wrapped Mustang?
A wrapped Mustang is indeed pressure washed in a safe manner, but hand washing is our preferred approach. Water pressure is not the biggest risk. The issues typically happen when a powerful flow of water is coming from an open edge, seam, corner, or a water-lifting area of vinyl. If using a pressure washer:
- Use a wide spray pattern rather than a concentrated jet.
- Keep a reasonable distance from the vehicle.
- Avoid excessive pressure.
- Do not aim directly into vinyl edges or seams.
- Avoid holding the nozzle in one spot for an extended period.
- Never pressure wash an area where the film is already lifting.
Proceed with caution around the front and rear bumpers, mirror caps, rocker panels, door edges, vents and wherever there are inlays and seams on a Mustang.
These are areas that will be under more tension while installing and are typically more sensitive to cleaning.
If you see an edge lifting up, do not attempt to “clean underneath it” using water pressure. Ensure area is inspected prior to lifting.
Can You Take a Wrapped Mustang Through a Car Wash?
We recommend hand washing whenever possible.
A brush-type automatic car wash is not suited for vinyl-wrapped cars. It can scratch surfaces, lower the gloss, scratch out matte or satin surfaces and sometimes trap exposed edges if the surfaces are exposed to rotating brushes repeatedly.
This is especially apparent in dark gloss wraps and specialty finishes where surface imperfections are more visible.
When an automatic wash cannot be avoided, a touchless car wash will, in most cases, be safer, as long as the chemicals and water pressure are suitable for vinyl.
But non-touch does not necessarily mean safe. However, some systems use high pressure spray or aggressive detergents, so as long as possible, we prefer controlled hand washing when it comes to long term wrap care.
If your Mustang has aftermarket spoilers, splitters, louvers, mirror extensions or other film wrapped features, you can expect to need extra care due to the extra exposed film edges and contours.
How to Remove Common Contaminants
Certain contaminants may need to be eliminated immediately and not be left for the next wash.
Bird droppings, insects, tree sap, tar, fuel and mineral deposits will stain, etch and change the surface appearance of the wrap if they are allowed to remain on the wrap for an extended period of time.
The key to it is simple: Treat with gentle methods first – do not immediately use strong chemicals or scrub hard at the stubborn spot.
Bird Droppings and Bugs
When bird droppings and insect residue dry and bake to a hot panel they can be hard to clean.
The hood, roof, mirrors, front bumper, and leading edges are the areas where these contaminants are likely to stick and mustang owners should make sure to pay attention to them.
If the residue has dried, soften the residue by using water and a wrap-safe cleaning solution first. Let it relax prior to softly wiping with a clean microfiber towel.
Avoid using a hard plastic object, an abrasive pad, or your fingernail to remove dried-on contaminants from the film.
We prefer to clean a single area in a gentle manner multiple times rather than to harm the vinyl with one strong sweep.
Tree Sap
When exposed to vinyl for extended periods of time, particularly on hot days, tree sap can adhere to the vinyl and cause it to bond.
Clean if sap is seen as soon as possible.
Use warm water and a wrap-safe cleaner. If the sap is not released, use only a cleaning product that is known to be compatible with your particular vinyl film.
Do not use high strength solvents right away.
This is especially true on matte, satin, chrome and specialty finishes in which an aggressive chemical can result in a visible change in sheen even after the sap has evaporated.
Road Tar and Road Grime
The most typical places where road tar, oily residue, and heavy grime are located are the rocker panels, lower doors, rear quarter panels and behind the wheel.
Use normal wash first and then a stronger cleaner.
If the tar is particularly stubborn, use a vinyl-compatible tar remover or spot cleaner, and try the product on a small patch first. Only apply the product where necessary, not on an entire panel unnecessarily.
Avoid scrubbing off the tar with an abrasive brush.
If you have to put a lot of pressure, stop and give the cleaner more time.
Fuel Spills
Fuel should not be allowed to remain on vinyl.
When filling with gasoline, rinse off the wrap with clean water immediately and then followed by a mild soap that is safe for wraps.
Never allow spilled fuel to evaporate on the film.
This is particularly an issue on Mustangs around the fuel door and adjacent rear quarter panel area, as the same area of vinyl may be exposed over time due to repeated fuel spills.
Do not use aggressive polishing or heat to remove stains after chemical exposure, if the film is discolored, softened or visibly changed, have the area inspected.
Water Spots
When water evaporates on the surface, mineral deposits can often cause water spots.
They are most visible on dark wraps and horizontal Mustang elements like the hood, roof, and trunk.
The best way to avoid water spotting is to prevent it from happening:
- Wash the car on a cool surface.
- Avoid washing under strong direct sunlight.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry the wrap promptly with clean microfiber towels.
If the water spots still persist, start washing the area normally. If the mineral deposit is persistent, use a water-spot remover that is compatible with vinyl after determining so.
Unless the manufacturer of the vinyl specifically states that it can be used, do not use aggressive polishing compounds. Polishing products formulated for painted surfaces cannot be used on matte, satin, chrome or specialty films without permanent alteration.
Can You Wax or Ceramic Coat a Mustang Wrap?
Yes, but the product needs to work with vinyl wrap, and with the particular type of finish you have on your Mustang.
Automotive waxes and polishing products are formulated more for painted surfaces and should not be assumed to be suitable for vinyl. Abrasive polishes are especially effective at changing the surface of the film, and some waxes can leave residue, uneven film surface and/or unwanted shine on matte and satin finishes.
If you are looking for an easy-to-clean surface and extra protection, a vinyl-safe ceramic coating may be the way to go. But the coating should be appropriate for the type of vinyl that is installed on your Mustang.
A particular coating can give different results on glossy vinyl compared to matte, satin, chrome or textured films, for instance.
To ensure a positive result, it is important to test the compatibility of products before applying any wax, sealant, polish or ceramic coating at RAXTiFY. If in any doubt test the product on a small inconspicuous area first.
RAXTiFY Care Note: A coating may aid in easier maintenance; however it cannot substitute for regular washing and it will not protect from damage from UV, harsh chemicals or road debris, improper washing or installation.
Care Tips for Different Vinyl Wrap Finishes
Not all finishes will react to cleaning products, the abrasion, heat, and detailing in the same manner. The type of vinyl installed, then, will play a part in the best care routine you can have for your Mustang.
Gloss and Gloss Metallic
Fine wash marks, dust, fingerprints and water spots may be more noticeable in gloss and gloss metallic wraps, especially on darker colors.
Always use a clean microfiber wash mitt and soft microfiber drying towel, and never rub dirt over a dry surface. Before touching the film flush away the contamination.
Gloss finishes are also compatible with certain vinyl-safe sealants or ceramic finishes, but certain abrasive compounds should be avoided unless the film manufacturer recommends them.
The same approach should be employed when cleaning metallic films. Film has an appearance of metal and doesn't need to be aggressively polished in order to remain shiny.
Matte and Satin
Because matte and satin wraps have a low-gloss finish that is considered to be part of the finish, they need to be treated differently.
Steer clear of harsh polish or scrubbing or products that will add a lot of luster. The uneven polishing can produce shiny patches of, for instance, a shiny surface in the middle of a matte one.
These finishes can also become visible with fingerprints, grease or bug residue, and should be cleaned immediately using a mild, vinyl-safe cleaner and soft microfiber towel.
In general, when it comes to the care of satin vinyl, we would recommend maintaining the original satin finish given that it is not essential to enhance it to make it “glossier”.
Chrome and Satin Chrome
While normal color change vinyls can be handled safely, chrome and satin chrome films are more sensitive.
Scratches, handling marks, chemical staining and other imperfections are easier to see on their highly reflective or specialty surface. Never use harsh or abrasive cleaners, aggressive brushes, dirty microfibers or strong detailing chemicals.
To wash a Mustang that has chrome wrapped sections, apply light pressure and let the water and mild cleaning solution do the work to remove the contamination, rather than scrubbing.
Be extra cautious near bumpers, mirrors, edges and over-stretched sections. The chrome-style films are not as forgiving when it comes to installation or longevity, so it's essential to take care of them.
Color Shift and Specialty Finishes
There are various different surface constructions and look that can be achieved in color-shift, pearl, glitter, laser, textured, and specialty wraps.
Use gentle cleaners and don't assume that a cleaner used for normal gloss vinyl is suitable for a special finish.
The condition of the surface is important in these types of films, since it can be chosen specifically for its light-reflective property. Fine scratches, chemical residues or even irregular detailing can be more apparent from various angles and in direct sunlight.
When using a specialty wrap, use the care guidelines recommended by the manufacturer at all times if possible.
Mustang Areas That Need Extra Care
Not all body panels of a Mustang are subjected to the same environmental stresses. Some parts of the vehicle are exposed to greater sun, road, handling or wash pressures.
These are the places which we suggest you to check most frequently.
Front Bumper
One of the toughest parts of the Mustang wrap is the front bumper. It regularly collects:
- Bugs
- Road grime
- Dust and sand
- Tar
- Water and cleaning chemicals
Its complicated curves, air holes, edges and back-dipped areas also contribute to being one of the more challenging panels to wrap.
Get rid of bug residue and heavy contamination as soon as possible, so that it does not stick to the vinyl and bake in the sun. Do not concentrate the pressure washing water in seams, edges, inlays and edges that have started to lift.
Hood, Roof, and Trunk
The horizontal or near-horizontal surface area of the hood, roof and trunk exposes them to a high degree of direct UV and environmental exposure. They also have a greater tendency to gather:
- Bird droppings
- Tree sap
- Dust
- Pollen
- Standing water
- Water spots
These panels should be washed on Mustangs parked outdoor on a regular basis and given special attention.
Promptly remove contaminants and do not allow dirty water to dry on a hot surface.
Try to park in a garage, under covered parking or in the shade if possible to avoid unnecessary UV and heat exposure.
Mirrors and Edges
Mirror caps on Mustangs have compound curves that can increase the amount of stretching and tension needed to attach them to the body panels as compared to flat body panels.
Other edges of doors, mirrors, fenders and other places where it is terminated should be checked regularly as well.
Do not allow high pressure water to flow under an exposed vinyl edge when washing the vehicle. Avoid further spraying or rubbing if you see the lifting.
Catching a small edge issue early is much easier than repairing a larger contaminated or lifted section later.
Rocker Panels
The lower part of the Mustang, and rocker panels, are constantly hit by material thrown up by the tyres. This can include:
- Road salt
- Sand
- Mud
- Oil residue
- Tar
- General road grime
Wash these areas with water before using a wash mitt to wash them. When using a grit that is trapped inside the vinyl, it may leave undesirable surface scratches when dragged.
Avoid leaving salt on lower body panels for extended periods of time during the winter season or following driving on salty roads.
Spoilers and Aero Parts
Factory or aftermarket spoilers, splitters, side skirts, louvers, diffusers and other aero parts are very popular on many Mustangs.
The components will frequently have extra edges, curves, seams and high-tension regions that might need more care than a level body panel.
When washing the car, inspect wrapped aero parts in and around corners and film termination points.
It is particularly important to check leading edges occasionally if you drive often at high speeds as the airflow, debris, washing and exposure to the elements put extra stress on leading edges.
What to Do If Your Mustang Wrap Is Damaged
However, not all of the marks on vinyl will need to be replaced by a whole new panel, so it is important to know what kind of mark to repair before attempting it. A small issue can be aggravated by aggressive polishing, too much heat or scrubbing over and over again.
Light Surface Marks
Start by thoroughly cleaning the affected area. Some scratches that appear to be scratches may actually be:
- Dirt
- Chemical residue
- Transfer marks
- Water spotting
- Contamination on the surface
Do not immediately reach for abrasive polish or a heat gun.
Determination of whether or not a light scratch can be reduced will depend on the construction and surface finish of the film. Some treatments are effective on certain vinyls, but not on others, especially matte, satin, chrome, and specialty vinyls.
If the mark still persists after a gentle clean, examine the mark carefully before further measures are taken.
Lifted Edges
If an edge begins to rise, be sure not to let dirt, water, wax or cleaning chemicals under the edge.
Do not spray a pressure washer on the area.
Sometimes a slight upward adjustment, due to installation, can be addressed and corrected. If the adhesive is contaminated or the vinyl is shrunk back too much, however, it will only be temporary if the edge is simply pushed down.
If you have a larger area that needs lifting, or if you need to lift around bumpers, mirrors, and recesses and in areas of heavy stretching, we recommend that you consult an experienced installer.
Tears and Deep Scratches
Most tears, cuts, deep scratches or objects that have been physically caught can't be cleaned.
The best solution for the repair may vary based on where the damage was done, whether it's replacing the affected panel or section of vinyl.
Don't continue to pull or cut out a damaged area unless you know the film is installed in a specific manner. If not handled properly, a small tear near a high-tension edge can spread.
One plus of vinyl wrap is that, if damage is localized, the wrap damaged part can be replaced without the entire car being wrapped.
Mustang Wrap Care by Season
The rate of vinyl wrap aging depends on climate. A Mustang that spends its entire life in the open air of Arizona, is going to experience a great deal of different conditions than a Mustang that drives through winters in Michigan. Your maintenance routine should reflect those conditions.
Summer and Hot Climates
Two of the top stresses on exterior vinyl are heat and UV exposure. During hot weather:
- Park indoors or in the shade whenever practical.
- Avoid washing the vehicle while the surface is extremely hot.
- Remove bird droppings, bugs, and tree sap promptly.
- Do not allow cleaning chemicals to dry on the vinyl.
- Keep the hood, roof, and trunk particularly clean.
- Avoid unnecessary prolonged exposure to intense sunlight.
Environmental aging may be more likely to be seen in some parts of the vehicle, such as horizontal and sloped areas, than vertical door panels, which generally get less direct UV and heat exposure.
If your Mustang is parked outdoors in an environment that has a high amount of UV rays, it may be beneficial to inspect and clean it more frequently.
Winter, Snow, and Road Salt
Winter introduces a different set of problems.
The rocker panels, wheel areas, bumpers and lower panels can fill up with road salt, mud, moisture and dirt very rapidly.
Regularly wash off salt and winter contamination, not leaving it on the vinyl for long periods.
Avoid using hard ice scrapers directly on wrapped body panels, and do not aggressively chip frozen material away from vinyl edges.
When winter pressure washing is needed, keep a safe distance from it and never pressure wash under seams or edges.
Prior to putting a wrapped Mustang in storage for the winter, clean and dry it thoroughly and check the wrap for lifting, contamination, or defects.
How Long Does a Mustang Vinyl Wrap Last?
The lifespan of RAXTiFY vinyl wrap can range from 2-3 years, depending on the installation and regular maintenance.
The life of an actual product may differ significantly depending on:
- Climate
- UV exposure
- Vehicle storage
- Driving conditions
- Vinyl finish
- Installation quality
- Washing habits
- Panel orientation
- Environmental contamination
A regularly hand washed and protected from harsh exposure to the sun garage-kept Mustang will generally give a much better environment for vinyl than a car that sits outdoors all year long in extreme sun and UV.
Vertical door panels can be different from the other panels in the car on the horizontal surfaces or those that are exposed, such as the hood, roof, trunk and bumpers.
We suggest that you consider the lifespan of a wrap as a range at RAXTiFY, not a specific expiration date. Regular inspection matters. Don't wait until the problem spreads, have the wrap evaluated if you start to notice significant cracking, lifting, adhesive failure or deterioration.
Normal aging cannot be prevented with proper care, but with proper care, your Mustang wrap can help your Mustang look and perform as well as it can during its life.
RAXTiFY Mustang Wrap Care Checklist
Follow this checklist and use it as a quick routine to keep your Mustang wrapped up and in good shape.
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Hand wash the Mustang regularly | Brush-style automatic car washes |
| Use clean water and mild, pH-neutral automotive soap | Harsh solvents, degreasers, and abrasive cleaners |
| Rinse loose dirt away before touching the vinyl | Scrubbing dry dirt across the film |
| Use clean microfiber wash and drying towels | Dirty brushes, rough towels, and abrasive pads |
| Remove bugs, bird droppings, tree sap, and fuel promptly | Allowing contaminants to bake into the film |
| Dry the hood, roof, and trunk after washing | Letting hard water dry in direct sunlight |
| Inspect edges, seams, mirrors, and bumpers regularly | Ignoring small areas of lifting |
| Keep pressure washers away from edges and seams | Spraying directly underneath vinyl edges |
| Park indoors or in shade whenever practical | Unnecessary long-term UV and heat exposure |
| Use only vinyl-compatible waxes, sealants, or coatings | Assuming every paint detailing product is vinyl-safe |
| Follow finish-specific care recommendations | Treating gloss, matte, satin, and chrome exactly the same |
| Clean rocker panels and lower body areas regularly | Allowing road salt and grime to accumulate |
| Address damage while it is still localized | Waiting until lifting or tearing spreads |
Our basic philosophy is pretty easy to follow: It's better to do a little bit of work each day than a ton of work all at once. There are more problems that can be prevented than fixed with a Mustang wrap.
FAQs About Mustang Wrap Care
How often should I wash my wrapped Mustang?
Generally, a wrap needs to be washed every 1-2 weeks for most daily drivers Mustangs, but the frequency of washing will vary depending on where and how you drive.
If the car has been exposed to road salt, bugs, bird droppings, tree sap, heavy dust, or other contamination, wash the car sooner than is scheduled. Generally, we like to do frequent, mild cleaning rather than letting contamination build up and then going in with heavy-duty cleaning later.
Can I pressure wash a wrapped Mustang?
Yes, but hand washing is the safer alternative, when possible.
Use moderate pressure and a broad spray pattern when using a pressure washer, keep a distance between the pressure washer and surface being cleaned, and avoid high pressure water against edges, seams, corners, inlays and areas that are already lifted.
With a Mustang, be extra cautious around the front and rear bumpers, mirrors, rocker panels, wrapped edges like the spoilers, and other edges. This can cause edge lifting if sprayed repeatedly in these areas (directly).
Can I take a wrapped Mustang through an automatic car wash?
Hand washing should be recommended for a vinyl-wrapped Mustang, whenever possible.
Brushing automatic car washers should generally be avoided as they can leave fine scratches, lessen the shine of some finishes and collect exposed edges of the vinyl.
Very often a touchless wash is a safer choice if an automatic wash can't be avoided. With even touchless systems though, there is strong water pressure or aggressive cleaning chemicals, so it should not be the preferred method of maintenance.
Can I wax a Mustang vinyl wrap?
Depends on the vinyl finish and the item to be used.
Never use wax for automotive paint application that is not suitable for vinyl. Products that will change the surface appearance such as abrasive waxes, polishes, rubbing compounds or those in general should not be used unless stated otherwise for the film.
Special attention to matte, satin, chrome and specialty finishes; polishing or using incompatible products can result in an uneven gloss or permanently alter the appearance.
When wrapping with gloss vinyl, only wrap-compatible products should be used and the care instructions for the particular film should be followed.
How do I remove bird droppings from vinyl wrap?
Get rid of bird feces ASAP, especially if the Mustang is parked in direct sunlight.
Firstly, avoid scrubbing contaminated items and remove contamination using a suitable wrap-safe cleaner or water. Use a clean microfiber towel and carefully wipe clean, rinse and dry.
Do not use aggressive rubbing or abrasive pads or strong solvents.
Based on our experience, it's better to let a stubborn contaminant soften over time rather than use too much force. The accumulation of bird excrement on an extended hood, roof or trunk for a long time can make the safe removal of this material much more difficult.
Can I use ceramic coating on a vinyl wrap?
Yes, although some ceramic coatings are made for vinyl wraps, it does depend on the type of vinyl wrap and the finish.
Coatings that work well with shiny vinyl may not work on matte, satin, chrome or textured surfaces. Other coatings may alter the gloss, depth of color or texture of a surface.
If you'd like to ceramic coat your Mustang wrap, be sure to use a product specifically formulated for automotive vinyl and check the label for suitability with the type of wrap finish you have. It is a good practice to test it on a small inconspicuous area first.
How long should I wait before washing a new wrap?
Wait at least 48 hours after installation before washing a newly wrapped Mustang, unless the vinyl requires longer than 48 hours to be installed as recommended in the vinyl's installation instructions.
The first few days provide sufficient time for the adhesive to set up, especially in areas of high stress, edges and curves.
It's also a good idea to check the wrap for lifted edges and places that might need attention during the first few days before washing the vehicle or bringing it through severe weather.
What should I do if an edge starts lifting?
Don't overlook a lifting edge and don't blast straight into it with the pressure washer.
With water, dirt and contamination working under the film, a small lifted area can grow. Have them checked as early as possible if you notice any lifting along a bumper, mirror, spoiler, door edge or any other place where there is a high tension.
Sometimes an area can be repaired if the adhesive is still clean and the film has not shrunk or distorted significantly. Replace this section if the adhesive or the vinyl has been contaminated by dirt or it has separated from the adhesive, this may yield a more consistent result.
Repeatedly pressing down a contaminated edge to make it look temporarily fixed is not recommended.
How long does a Mustang wrap last?
The typical life of a properly installed and maintained RAXTiFY vinyl wrap is approximately 2-3 years though life varies in the real world. The following factors may cause the wrap to have a shorter or longer life:
- UV and heat exposure
- Climate and weather
- Indoor versus outdoor parking
- Washing habits
- Vinyl finish
- Installation quality
- Driving frequency
- Road salt and environmental contamination
An auto that has been kept in a garage and is washed properly will likely experience much different conditions than an auto that is left outside for most of the day in strong sunlight.
While regular maintenance will not eliminate the effects of normal aging, it will help minimize avoidable damage like staining, surface scratches, edge lifting, and fading.
Final Thoughts
It is not a difficult process to maintain a Mustang vinyl wrap. In our experience, the most important habits are also the simplest: wash the vehicle gently, remove contaminants early, keep harsh chemicals and abrasive tools away from the film, protect exposed edges, and reduce unnecessary UV exposure whenever possible.
Pays special attention to the Mustang's hood, roof, trunk, front bumper, rocker panels, mirrors, spoilers, and other high exposure areas. These areas are exposed to more of these sun, road, wash or edge effects than flat, protected areas of the vehicle.
There are various vinyl finishes too and they need different types of care. When you are considering vinyl wraps, a gloss metal wrap does not automatically mean that it should be handled exactly like matte, satin, chrome or color shift vinyl. If the specific care instructions for the particular film are not included, use the film care instructions instead of general paint-care products.
A RAXTiFY Mustang wrap usually lasts for 2-3 years with proper installation and maintenance and will provide the colour and finish you desire without permanently painting the vehicle.
