Vehicle Wrapping Price guide & Maintenance
Vehicle Wrapping Cost Guide – Melbourne, Australia
A vehicle wrap allows you to completely transform the appearance of your car, van, SUV, ute or truck using almost any solid colour, printed graphic, textured film or specialty vinyl finish. Whether you're looking for a simple colour change, commercial branding or a one-off custom design, every vehicle wrap is individually priced based on the materials, labour and complexity involved.
The total cost of a vehicle wrap can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
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Area of coverage – Quarter wrap (25%), Half wrap (50%), Three-quarter wrap (75%) or Full vehicle wrap.
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Vehicle size and shape – Larger vehicles require more material, while complex curves, deep recesses and body contours require additional labour.
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Amount of vinyl required – More coverage means more material and installation time.
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Type, brand and quality of vinyl – Economy, premium cast vinyl, colour-change films, textured finishes, chrome, chameleon and other specialty materials all vary considerably in price.
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Printed graphics or coloured vinyl – Printed wraps require printing and protective lamination, while colour-change wraps use pre-coloured cast vinyl. Some projects combine both methods.
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Single-layer or multi-layer graphics – Simple one-layer graphics are quicker to install, whereas layered graphics, embossed effects and multiple vinyl colours require considerably more labour and precision.
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Design requirements – Whether you already have print-ready artwork or require a new design. Design costs also vary depending on whether it is a basic layout, standard business branding, premium custom artwork or a completely unique one-off design. An experienced designer with extensive branding and vehicle wrap knowledge will generally produce a more effective, visually balanced and installation-friendly design than an inexperienced designer.
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Removal of existing wraps or signage – Existing vinyl, adhesive residue or old graphics may need to be professionally removed before installation. The time and cost depend on the age, condition and type of the existing material.
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Vehicle preparation and cleaning – Vehicles with road tar, wax, silicone contamination, tree sap, grease or heavy dirt often require professional cleaning and surface preparation before wrapping to ensure proper adhesion and long-term durability.
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Removal and reinstallation of vehicle parts – Premium wraps often require the removal and refitting of mirrors, door handles, lights, badges, trims, grilles and other components to achieve a seamless, factory-quality finish.
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Installation time and complexity – More intricate vehicles and higher-quality finishes require substantially more installation time.
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Installer's experience and workmanship – The skill, experience and attention to detail of the installer have one of the greatest impacts on the final appearance, durability and lifespan of the wrap.
A professionally designed and installed vehicle wrap is an investment that should not only enhance your vehicle's appearance but also protect its original paintwork for many years.
While low-cost quotes may seem attractive, they often involve lower-quality materials, minimal preparation, inexperienced designers or installers, and shortcuts during installation. This can result in poor alignment, visible joins, trapped air, lifting edges, overstretched vinyl, premature colour fading, peeling, shrinking and significantly reduced lifespan.
When comparing quotations, always consider the quality of the design, materials, preparation, installation techniques and workmanship—not just the final price. A premium wrap may cost more initially, but it almost always provides better appearance, greater durability and lower long-term ownership costs.
1. Approximate Vehicle Wrapping Costs (July 2026)
The amount of vinyl required varies depending on the size and shape of the vehicle.
Vehicle Type Approx. Vinyl Required
Small Car 13–16 metres
Medium Car 15–17 metres
Large Car 17–20 metres
Vans & 4WDs Varies according to size
The following prices are intended as a general guide only (Melbourne market pricing as of July 2026). Prices may change due to fluctuations in material and labour costs.
Vehicle Type Approximate Price
Small Car $3,550 – $4,250
Medium Car $4,550 – $5,250
Large Car $5,450 – $5,950
Single Cab Ute $3,550 – $4,850
Dual Cab 4WD Ute $5,250 – $5,950
Medium SUV $4,950 – $5,450
Large SUV $5,850 – $6,450
Small Van $3,850 – $4,450
Medium Van $4,950 – $5,950
Large Van $6,450 – $7,950 plus
Please contact us for an accurate quotation based on your specific vehicle and requirements.
2. Vinyl Material Cost
Vehicle wrapping vinyl is available in a wide variety of brands, colours and finishes. Most wrapping films are supplied in rolls 1,520 mm wide.
Typical pricing includes:
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Economy vinyl: From $30 per metre
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Premium cast wrapping vinyl: From $85 per metre
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Specialty colours (e.g. Chameleon): From $145 per metre
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Chrome/Mirror finish: Approximately $230–$290 per metre
Premium brands generally offer better conformability, durability, colour stability and easier future removal.
3. Vehicle Size & Complexity
The size and shape of a vehicle significantly affect installation costs.
Larger vehicles require more material, while complex body panels require considerably more labour.
For example:
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A bonnet is generally flat and relatively quick to wrap.
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A front bumper contains deep recesses, curves, vents and sharp contours, requiring additional stretching, heating, trimming and sometimes partial disassembly.
The more complex the vehicle, the greater the installation time.
4. Installation Time
Installation time depends on both the quality of finish required and the complexity of the vehicle.
Finish Quality Typical Time
Basic Wrap 2–3 days (18–24 hours)
Standard / Good Quality 3–4 days (24–32 hours)
Premium Showroom Finish 5–6 days (40–48 hours)
Experienced installers may work faster, but premium-quality wrapping still requires patience, precision and attention to detail.
5. Quality of Finish
Finishing quality is one of the biggest factors influencing price.
Premium installations often require removal and reinstallation of:
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Door handles
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Mirrors
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Badges
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Tail lights
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Headlights
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Window trims
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Grilles
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Other removable components
Removing these parts allows the vinyl to be neatly wrapped around panel edges, creating a cleaner and more durable finish.
An experienced installer understands the correct stretching techniques and installation temperatures. Poor installation can result in:
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Damaged paint
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Scratched panels
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Overstretched vinyl
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Burnt or discoloured film
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Lifted edges
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Premature peeling
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Shortened lifespan
Choosing a skilled installer usually saves money in the long run.
6. Multi-Colour Wraps & Special Effects
The more colours and materials used, the higher the installation cost.
Additional costs may apply for:
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Racing stripes
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Layered graphics
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Printed decals
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Chrome accents
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Reflective vinyl
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Carbon fibre textures
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Satin, matte or brushed metallic finishes
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Embossed or layered effects
Keeping the design simple can reduce both material usage and installation time.
7. Expected Lifespan & Warranty
The lifespan of a vehicle wrap depends on several factors, including:
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Vinyl brand and quality
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Installation quality
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Exposure to UV sunlight
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Climate conditions
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Vehicle maintenance
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Storage (garage vs outdoors)
Premium cast wrapping films typically provide:
Surface Expected Life
Vertical surfaces5–12 years
Horizontal surfaces (roof, bonnet, boot)3–5 years
Horizontal panels receive significantly more UV exposure and may have a lifespan 40–70% shorter than vertical panels.
To maximise the life of your wrap:
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Wash the vehicle regularly using pH-neutral car wash products.
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Remove bird droppings, tree sap and contaminants promptly.
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Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
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Use vinyl-safe protectants where recommended.
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Park in a garage or shaded area whenever possible.
For best long-term results, we recommend replacing wraps on horizontal panels after approximately 3 years, particularly in Australia's harsh climate.
Important
Remove the vinyl immediately if you notice:
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Significant colour fading
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Darkening or discolouration
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Hairline cracking
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Adhesive failure
Leaving deteriorated vinyl on the vehicle for too long can make removal far more difficult and may increase the risk of paint damage and removal costs.
Warranty Information
Typical warranties may include:
Coverage Typical Period
Vertical surfaces 5 - 12 years
Horizontal surfaces 3 - 5 year
Workmanship 1 year
Warranty coverage generally applies to manufacturing or installation defects such as:
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Peeling
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Curling
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Excessive shrinking
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Cracking
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Premature colour fading
Actual warranty terms vary depending on the manufacturer, vinyl product selected and installation conditions.
Warranty Conditions
The longevity of any vehicle wrap depends largely on how the vehicle is used and maintained.
Factors affecting warranty include:
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Whether the vehicle is parked indoors or outdoors.
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Daily exposure to direct sunlight.
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Regular cleaning using soft cloths or microfibre towels.
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Proper maintenance using vinyl-safe cleaning products.
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Protection from harsh chemicals, fuel spills and bird droppings.
Warranty is valid only when the vehicle has original, sound, clean and properly bonded factory paint.
Vehicles that have undergone aftermarket repairs—including repainting, panel beating, dent repairs or body filler work—may not be eligible for warranty coverage.
During installation, vinyl may need to be repositioned multiple times. On repaired or repainted panels, the adhesive may lift unstable paint or body repairs. Therefore, we cannot accept responsibility for paint or bodywork failure caused by previous repairs or repainting.
Final Thoughts
A professionally installed vehicle wrap not only enhances your vehicle's appearance but also helps protect the original paintwork. When comparing quotations, consider more than just the price. The quality of materials, installer experience, preparation methods and finishing standards all contribute to the final result and the lifespan of your wrap.
Investing in premium materials and skilled workmanship usually provides better value over the life of the wrap.
Our Services
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Vehicle Wraps
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Racing Stripes
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Fleet Branding
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Colour Change Wraps
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Printed Wraps
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Commercial Vehicle Signage
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Stickers & Decals
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Sticker labels
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Corflute sign
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Panel Signs
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Acrylic Signs
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Window Graphics
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Wall Graphics
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Ceiling Graphics
For a personalised quotation or further information, please contact us. We will be happy to discuss the best solution for your vehicle and budget.
Email: ozara.printing@gmail.com
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Vehicle Wrap | Vehicle signage | Stickers | Decals | Racing Stripes | Window Sign | Wall Graphics | Ceiling Decals.
Vehicle Wrap Care & Maintenance Guide
With proper care, your wrap can maintain its appearance and durability for many years.
First 7 Days After Installation
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Do not wash the vehicle for at least 7 days.
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Avoid high-pressure washing, automatic car washes, and harsh weather exposure where possible.
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Do not apply wax, polish, ceramic coating, or any protective products unless specifically approved for vinyl wraps.
Regular Washing
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Hand wash only whenever possible.
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Wash every 2–4 weeks to prevent dirt, road grime, bird droppings, tree sap, and contaminants from permanently marking the film.
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Use clean water with a pH-neutral automotive shampoo.
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Use a soft microfiber wash mitt or sponge.
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Rinse thoroughly before washing to remove loose dirt.
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Dry immediately using a clean microfiber drying towel.
Avoid
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Automatic brush car washes.
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Abrasive cloths, brushes, or scrubbing pads.
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Solvents, thinners, petrol, kerosene, acetone, or strong chemical cleaners.
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Waxes, polishing compounds, cutting compounds, or products designed to increase gloss.
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Household detergents.
These products can permanently alter the matte appearance or damage the vinyl.
Pressure Washing (If Necessary)
Pressure washing should be used only when hand washing is not practical.
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Maximum pressure: 1,200 psi (8.3 MPa)
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Water temperature: below 50°C
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Keep the spray nozzle at least 300 mm (12 inches) away from the surface.
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Spray at approximately 45° to the surface.
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Never direct high-pressure water at panel edges, seams, or lifted corners.
Remove Contaminants Immediately
Remove the following as soon as possible:
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Bird droppings
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Tree sap
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Bug splatter
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Fuel spills
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Oil
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Road tar
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Dead insects
Allowing these contaminants to remain on the wrap may cause staining or reduce the film's lifespan.
Fuel Filling
If fuel is spilled onto the wrap:
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Wipe it off immediately with a soft microfiber cloth.
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Wash the area with mild car shampoo and clean water.
Sun Exposure
Although premium wraps are UV resistant, prolonged exposure to intense sunlight will gradually reduce their service life.
Whenever possible:
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Park in a garage.
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Use covered parking.
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Park in shaded areas.
Winter & Coastal Areas
Road salt, sea salt, and other contaminants should be rinsed off regularly to minimise long-term surface deterioration.
Scratch Prevention
Matte films cannot usually be polished to remove scratches.
Avoid:
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Tree branches
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Shopping trolleys
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Sharp objects
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Dragging bags or equipment across the wrap
Recommended Cleaning Products
Use products specifically designed for vinyl wraps or matte paint finishes, including:
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pH-neutral automotive shampoo
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Soft microfiber wash mitt
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Microfiber drying towels
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Vinyl-safe quick detailer (matte compatible only)
Expected Service Life
The lifespan depends on the climate, parking conditions, maintenance, and vehicle usage.
With proper care, premium wrap films typically provide excellent appearance and durability.
You can expect 5 - 8+ years for vertical sections like the side body, and 3 - 5 years for horizontal surfaces like the bonnet, rooftop, and all other horizontal sections.
As soon as you notice cracks or color darkening on the bonnet or roof, it's time to remove or replace the vinyl. Otherwise, the vinyl will dry out, making removal costly and potentially damaging the paint.
For poorly painted sections, the paint may come off with the vinyl upon removal.
Notice
Damage caused by:
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Neglect,
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Improper cleaning,
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Automatic brush washes,
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Harsh chemicals,
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Physical impact,
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Accident damage,
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Stone chips,
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Deliberate misuse,
is not covered under workmanship or manufacturer's warranty.
Following the above care instructions will help maximise the life and appearance of your matte vehicle wrap.



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Thanks for such a detailed guide. Looking forward to see more of your guidance.😘
very informative guide❤️