Can Damaged Vehicle Graphics Be Partially Replaced?

Can damaged vehicle graphics be partially replaced? Well, it depends…let’s take a look into the options for damaged vehicle graphics. It’s often unnecessary to replace an entire graphic to fix one damaged area. For example, if a vehicle has been involved in an accident and damage was confined to a quarter panel or rear deck, it may be possible to repair and replace only those sections, which is less time-consuming and less expensive than replacing the entire wrap. However, a few conditions need to be met before partially replacing damaged vehicle graphics.

Can Damaged Vehicle Graphics be Partially Replaced?

Complete the Repair Work First

Before you can replace graphics, all bodywork repairs must be completed. Vehicle graphics will not cover or hide damage — it will show through. Bodywork and paint should be left to cure according to manufacturers’ recommendations before applying adhesive graphics. If not, the paint will outgas and loosen the adhesive on the vinyl, which will lead to separation of the vinyl from the vehicle.

How Much of the Graphic Should be Replaced?

Determine the best start and stop points on the vehicle. For example, it would be challenging to replace graphics on part of a door — in most cases, the entire door should be rewrapped. The same goes for a hood, quarter panel, or trunk. Even if the entire area, such as a door, hasn’t been damaged, it’s usually better to replace the whole door’s graphics.

Replacing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Graphics

Many body shops offer adhesive vinyl applications. If the damaged vehicle had manufacturer applied graphics, a licensed and reputable body repair shop should be able to acquire the OEM replacement graphics. Contracting a body shop experienced in vehicle graphics application to complete the repairs may eliminate multiple providers. If the shop subcontracts the installation of the graphics, be sure the body shop uses an established and experienced adhesive vinyl graphic installation team.

Replacing Aftermarket Graphics

It can be difficult to partially replace damaged aftermarket graphics for anyone other than the original graphics provider. The large-format provider who designed, manufactured, and installed the original graphics is best suited to match the repair. First, they should have the original artwork and formatting to work from. They also have the printers and systems used on the original, increasing the possibility of matching existing work. Color calibration can vary from printer to printer and by provider. This doesn’t mean that another provider couldn’t repair the damage. It means they’ll need to be especially diligent about the color match.

What if it’s only a Small Scuff?

Road & Track shared this, “Caring for a wrap isn’t something most owners think about until, of course, something goes wrong. Scuffs and scratches can happen on wraps too. But, like paint, they’re just as repairable with the right methods. Larry Kosilla of AMMO, NYC put together a helpful video, How to Remove Scuffs and Scratches From a Vinyl Wrap demonstrating how to remove things like rubber and marks from a vinyl wrap, demonstrating the process on a 911 GT3 race car.”

How Old Are the Damaged Vehicle Graphics?

If the graphics are two to three years old or older, it will be more difficult to match the existing graphics due to color fading. Attempting to match faded graphics will sometimes create a “patched” look.

What Overall Condition are the Graphics?

Regardless of fade, what shape is the wrap? Is it scratched, peeling, or ripped? Are any edges loose; are there bubbles or stretch marks? If the existing wrap is worn — it may be time to replace the entire wrap.

So, Can Damaged Vehicle Graphics be Partially Replaced?

Can damaged vehicle graphics be partially replaced? Vehicle wraps and decals that have been damaged through collisions, vandalism, or abuse CAN be partially repaired — under the right circumstances. An experienced graphics manufacturer, such as TKO Graphix, can advise you on the best course of action for your particular damaged vehicle graphics.

If you’d like further information or advice, be sure to Contact Us . If you’d like a free estimate for your fleet or vehicle graphics; you can Request A Quote.

TKO Graphix is a national fleet and vehicle graphics company helping customers since 1985. We provide full-service graphic design, digital printing, screen printing, graphics installation, and removal of large format graphics.