Does wrapping a car add value?

Ever wondered if wrapping your car is worth the money? Whether you’re after a fresh look or thinking of selling your car, this guide looks into what really adds to or hurts its value.

Car wraps are a great way to personalise your car, protect the paint, and turn heads – but do they actually add value when it’s time to sell? It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t always clear-cut.

In this guide, we’ll look at how wraps can affect resale value and when they might help, or hurt, your car’s value.

What are car wraps?

Car wraps are big vinyl stickers that go right over your car’s paint. They come in loads of colours, finishes, and designs, so you can change up your car’s look without making it permanent.

If done right, a wrap won’t mess with your paint – in fact, it can actually protect it. That’s why so many people go for wraps instead of splashing out on a full respray.

But there are a few things to keep in mind if you decide to wrap your car:

• Your paint matters: If it’s already chipped or in bad shape, removing the wrap might make it worse.
• Get it done professionally: A good wrap job makes all the difference. DIY or cheap wraps can damage your car, be a pain to remove, or just look plain rubbish.
• It’s not always a quick peel-off: Wraps can be removed, but it takes some effort, especially if they’ve been on for years or baked in the sun.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can also sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

Does wrapping a car add value?

Usually, wrapping your car doesn’t really add value and can even lower it sometimes. Wraps can protect the original paint and might catch the eye of certain buyers, such as car enthusiasts or businesses, but a lot of people prefer cars in their original state. If the wrap is scratched, badly done, or super flashy, it can put buyers off and hurt the value.

That said, a good-quality wrap that you take off before selling can help keep the paint in great shape and protect your car’s resale price.

How car wraps can increase car value

Let’s start with the positives. Here are some situations where car wraps can help preserve, or even boost, a car’s resale value:

Protecting the original paint

One of the biggest perks of a car wrap is that it helps protect the original paint. Cars with perfect factory paint usually sell for more than ones with scratches, chips, or fading.

When you’re selling, be sure to mention how the wrap protects the paint. Buyers like knowing the original paint is still in great shape.

Reversible customisation

Unlike a permanent paint job, a vinyl wrap can be taken off to show the car’s original colour underneath. That’s a big plus when it comes to selling.

If the wrap’s a bit too bold or niche, such as racing stripes or bright graphics, removing it gives you a clean slate that more buyers will like.

On the other hand, popular colours such as matte black or metallic grey might even catch the eye of buyers who like the look but don’t want to get a wrap themselves.

Standing out in the crowd

A smart, professionally done wrap can make your car stand out from all the usual stock cars, which might help it sell quicker or for a bit more. For example:

• A smooth satin wrap on a Tesla Model 3 could catch the eye of buyers looking for something a bit different but still classy.
• A classic car with a period-style design might grab the attention of enthusiasts who know their stuff.

When wrapping hurts car value

Cheap wraps and shoddy jobs

Using cheap vinyl or having the wrap done by an amateur can cause peeling edges, bubbles, or sticky residue – things that make buyers think the car wasn’t looked after properly. Plus, low-quality adhesive might damage the paint when the wrap’s taken off, which definitely puts buyers off and can lower offers.

Bold designs aren’t to everyone’s taste

While neon colours or loud graphics might show off your style, they can scare away potential buyers. Wraps with big logos, cartoons, or flashy decals can really limit who’s interested. Trendy designs, such as ‘vaporwave’ styles, can also date quickly and become less appealing.

Wear and tear shows

If the wrap’s faded, scratched, or just looks tired, buyers might worry the car hasn’t been cared for – no matter what the paint underneath looks like.

Are you hiding something?

Buyers might think you’re trying to hide something wrong with the car by putting a wrap on it.

Buyer’s preference

If a potential buyer isn’t into how the wrap looks or feels, they probably won’t see it as a plus and won’t want to pay extra for it.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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