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Mekina Studios
Guide

How do I care for a wrapped car, and does it come off clean?

Hand wash or touchless, keep pressure washers off the edges, deal with bird droppings and fuel quickly, and garage it when you can. On healthy factory paint, removal leaves the paint as it went in.

Most of a wrap's life is decided after it leaves the bay. The film is tougher than people expect and more particular than paint in a few specific ways. This is the care briefing we give at delivery, written down.

Washing

Hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo, or use a touchless wash. Skip abrasive brushes. Don't aim a pressure washer directly at edges and seams — that is the one place water pressure can get under the film.

The things to deal with promptly

Bird droppings and fuel spills should be cleared promptly rather than left to sit. Garage or shade parking meaningfully extends the life of any finish, and vinyl is no exception.

How long it lasts

Premium vinyl from brands like 3M and Avery typically performs for 5–7 years with proper care. Exact life depends on film line, finish, climate exposure and care. Vertical panels outlast horizontal ones — roofs and hoods take the sun — and garaging extends everything. We set honest expectations for your specific film at consultation.

Removal and the paint underneath

On healthy factory paint, the film protects it, and removal by an experienced installer leaves the paint as it went in. That is what makes a wrap work for a lease: it protects the paint during the term and comes off before return, restoring the factory colour.

The limitation is honest and it is about the paint, not the film: repainted or damaged surfaces are assessed before wrapping, because weak paint can lift with any film. If your car has been resprayed or has existing damage, we document it first and tell you what to expect.

Warranty

The film carries its manufacturer's warranty, and we back our installation with a 6-month craftsmanship warranty on edges, seams and lifting. If our work is the problem, we make it right.

Published prices: Vehicle Wraps. Every figure is confirmed once the vehicle is inspected.

Written by the studio · updated October 5, 2026