How To Wrap Car Wheel Faces

Wrapping car wheel faces can be a great way to customize the look of your vehicle. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wrap car wheel faces:

1. Gather the necessary materials:

   • Vinyl wrap: Choose a high-quality vinyl wrap specifically designed for automotive use. Ensure you have enough to cover all the wheel faces.
   • Heat gun or hairdryer: This will help you apply heat to the vinyl for stretching and conforming it to the wheel.
   • Utility knife or vinyl wrap cutting tool: You'll need this for trimming the excess vinyl.
   • Squeegee or soft cloth: This will be used to smooth out the vinyl and remove any air bubbles.
   • Isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth: These will be used to clean the wheel faces before wrapping.

2. Prepare the wheels:

   • Start by thoroughly cleaning the wheel faces using isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth. Remove any dirt, grease, or brake dust. It's crucial to have a clean surface for proper adhesion of the vinyl.
   • If there are any damages or curbside rash on the wheel faces, consider repairing or refinishing them before proceeding with the wrapping process.

3. Measure and cut the vinyl:

   • Measure the wheel face using a measuring tape and add a few inches to ensure you have enough vinyl to cover the entire surface.
   • Cut the vinyl wrap accordingly, leaving a margin of a few inches around the edges to allow for adjustments during the installation.

4. Apply the vinyl:

   • Start by peeling a small section of the backing from the vinyl wrap. Align the exposed edge with one side of the wheel face.
   • Slowly apply the vinyl, using your hands to press it onto the wheel face. Make sure to avoid any wrinkles or air bubbles. Use a squeegee or soft cloth to smooth out the vinyl as you go.
   • Continue peeling the backing and applying the vinyl, working your way around the wheel face. Use the heat gun or hairdryer to apply heat to the vinyl as you go. The heat will make the vinyl more pliable, allowing you to stretch and conform it to the contours of the wheel.

5. Trim the excess vinyl:

   • Once the vinyl is applied to the entire wheel face, use a utility knife or vinyl wrap cutting tool to trim the excess vinyl along the edge of the wheel.
   • Take your time and make precise cuts to ensure a clean and professional-looking finish. Be careful not to cut into the wheel or damage the existing finish.

6. Finishing touches:

   • After trimming the excess vinyl, go over the entire wrapped surface with a squeegee or soft cloth to ensure proper adhesion and remove any remaining air bubbles.
   • Use the heat gun or hairdryer to apply heat once again, going over the wrapped surface. This will help the vinyl to bond securely and conform even better to the wheel's contours.