Tips & Tricks: Three steps to successful vehicle prep

Prepping a vehicle before installing vinyl graphics is a simple but essential process that many shops overlook. But proper prep is essential if you want to avoid failure issues. Here’s the quick, reliable cleaning procedure that I use with consistently good results:

After the vehicle has been washed, I begin by cleaning the surface with a household cleaner like 409 or Fantastic to remove the water-based contaminants. It also removes some grease as well.

Next, I wipe the surfaces down with a wax and grease remover from an auto supply. Follow the instructions on the can for best results. If there is any wax on the vehicle, there is no way the graphic will stay without peeling.