Jeeps are built to withstand any terrain and are the perfect choice for off-roading enthusiasts. Some owners have their Jeeps painted to give them a personal touch and stand out. More than just vehicles, they are a lifestyle.
However, paint jobs aren’t the only way to personalize a vehicle and protect its exterior. There’s another popular method that offers some advantages: vinyl wraps.
Jeep wraps are vinyl graphics that can cover a Jeep’s entire body, giving it a newer, fresher look. They can be a great way to customize your ride, but is it worth it?
Let’s take a look at the cost, benefits, and durability of Jeep wraps, and see if they’re worth investing in.
How Much Does a Jeep Wrap Cost?
The cost of Jeep wraps varies depending on the vehicle’s size, the design, and the quality of the vinyl. A basic vinyl wrap costs around $1,300 to $5,000, and a custom design can cost more. The cost of installation is another consideration because of the meticulousness and complexity of the process.
Take note that the prices may vary per location. We advise you to get quotes from different shops and compare their prices. Shops that specialize in wraps tend to offer lower prices compared to those that only offer it as an alternative to their main auto paint service.
Why You Need a Jeep Wrap
There are a few benefits you can gain from Jeep wraps. First, they give your vehicle a personalized look. There is a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs to choose from that can match your style. They are also considerably faster to install, taking two to three days to finish, unlike a paint job that can take a week or so.
Wraps are also easy to clean and maintain, so you don’t need to shampoo or wax your car regularly. Just make sure you keep your wrapped Jeep clean and washed at least once every week.
Most importantly, Jeep wraps protect your Jeep’s original paint job from scratches, chips, and damage from off-roading. These will save you money on repairs and help maintain your vehicle’s value should you consider selling it in the future.
However, it’s also worth noting that vinyl wraps may affect your Jeep’s insurance plan. Some insurers consider it as an accessory or add-on, so you may have to pay more for your insurance to have it covered. Be sure to understand your insurance provider’s policies before going for vinyl wrapping.
How Long Does a Jeep Wrap Last?
A high-quality vinyl wrap typically lasts up to seven years, and it may go beyond that depending on how well-maintained your Jeep is.
To maximize its lifespan, you must keep your Jeep protected from the elements. Solar radiation, in particular, is the biggest cause of damage to vinyl wraps, causing the vinyl to dry up and lose its elasticity and adhesion to the vehicle’s surface.
Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning materials can affect the longevity and aesthetics of vinyl, so be sure to avoid using them when cleaning your vinyl-covered Jeep. Also, park your vehicle in a covered garage if possible.
Recommended Wraps for a Jeep
A Jeep usually requires 13 to 15 yards of wrap. This amount of vinyl is enough to cover all the vehicle’s surfaces. However, make sure that you recalculate the vinyl requirement if you want to use different colors or designs.
You can use any type of vinyl wrap for your Jeep. The cheapest types of wraps are the flat ones. If you prefer something easier to install and remove, consider getting the ribbed vinyl option. If you want to be adventurous with your Jeep’s looks, try decorative wraps, which come in various shapes, sizes, color combinations, and print designs.
Don’t skimp on the quality of the wraps. The cost efficiency you expect from bargain material will not materialize if it already starts deteriorating in a couple of years; you may even have a hard time installing it.
Wrap or Paint: Which Is Better for Your Jeep?
Choosing between a Jeep wrap and a paint job can be difficult. While a paint job provides a permanent and seamless finish, it can be expensive and difficult to change. Meanwhile, a Jeep wrap offers more flexibility and customization options at a lower price.
If you prefer a traditional look for your Jeep and you plan to keep it for a long time, a paint job might be a better option for you. Otherwise, if you want to protect your vehicle’s original paint job while changing its look periodically, you may be better off choosing a Jeep wrap. It is also your best option if you’re looking to have your vehicle cosmetically detailed faster.
A Worthy Alternative to a Paint Job
Vinyl wraps were considerably expensive decades ago when only a few companies offered them. Now that they are widely available, it’s not a bad idea to use them if you want to achieve a particular design for your vehicle without worrying about the cost.
Jeep wraps are a great way to personalize your Jeep and protect it from damage. There’s a wide range of design options to choose from, and they can be easily removed or changed. With proper care, a high-quality wrap can last for several years, making it a worthwhile investment for Jeep enthusiasts.
