When you buy a new car, you may be surprised that it’s covered in dealership branding. This can include stickers, decals, and even license plates with the dealership’s name.
While some people are okay with this branding, others find it unsightly or unprofessional. If you’re one of those people, you may wonder if removing the dealership branding from your car is possible.
The good news is that removing dealership branding from your car is possible. However, your specific method will depend on the type of branding you’re dealing with.
Understanding Dealership Branding
What is Dealership Branding?
Dealership branding refers to the logos, stickers, or promotional materials that dealerships add to vehicles. These can range from small decals to prominent badges, often intended as a marketing tactic.
While some people don’t mind, others prefer a brand-free car.
Types of Branding
- Stickers: These are usually vinyl and can be found on the trunk, bumper, or window.
- Badges: These are more permanent, made of metal or plastic, and are often glued to the car’s body.
- License Plate Frames: These frames surrounding the license plate usually carry the dealership’s name and contact information.
Why Remove Branding?
Many car enthusiasts believe that dealership branding removes the car’s aesthetic appeal. Others prefer to provide something other than free advertising. Personal preference is critical here, and if you prefer a clean,
unbranded look, removing these items can be a simple way to achieve it.
Legal Considerations Before Removing Branding
Is it Legal?
In most regions, removing dealership branding is legal, as the car’s owner can modify its appearance. However, it’s always prudent to check local laws and regulations.
Vehicle Warranty
Commonly, removing branding won’t impact your car’s warranty, as warranties typically cover manufacturing defects and mechanical issues. However, damage caused during the removal process (like scratches or paint damage) is usually not covered.
Preparing to Remove Dealership Branding
Tools Needed
- Hairdryer or heat gun (for gentle heat application)
- Plastic card or spatula (to pry up edges without scratching)
- Adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol (to remove residue)
- Microfiber cloth (for cleaning)
- Wax or sealant (for post-cleanup protection)
Assessing Branding Type
The method for removing branding depends on its type. Stickers are more accessible to remove than badges, which require more careful handling to avoid damaging the car’s exterior.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Different Types of Branding
Removing Stickers and Decals
- Apply Heat: Gently warm the sticker with a hairdryer. The heat loosens the adhesive.
- Peel Carefully: Start at a corner, using a plastic card to lift the sticker.
- Remove Residue: Use adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol to clean any sticky residue.
- Polish: Once clean, use a microfiber cloth to buff the area.
Removing Badges and Emblems
- Warm the Area: Use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm the badge, softening the adhesive.
- Saw-Through Adhesive: Use a piece of dental floss or fishing line to gently see through the adhesive behind the badge.
- Clean Up: Remove leftover adhesive, and polish the area with a clean cloth.
- Protect: Apply a coat of wax or sealant to protect the paint.
Taking Off License Plate Frames
- Unscrew: Remove the screws holding the frame (a simple screwdriver works).
- Lift-Off Frame: Carefully take the frame off.
- Clean Area: Wipe any dirt or residue, and apply wax for protection.
Post-Removal Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Area
After removal, cleaning the exposed area is crucial to prevent adhesive residue from attracting dirt or damaging the paint.
Protecting the Car’s Paint
Applying a layer of car wax or paint sealant enhances the shine and protects the paint from environmental elements.
Professional Help
If the process seems daunting, consider professional help. Many car washes and detailing services offer decal and badge removal services, ensuring a damage-free process.
Alternatives to Physical Removal
Covering Up
If you’re not ready to remove the branding, consider covering it. A strategically placed bumper sticker or a custom license plate frame can do the trick.
Professional Rebranding
Professional rebranding services can replace the dealership branding with personalized graphics or emblems for those looking for a unique touch.
Costs Of Removing Dealership Branding
The cost of removing dealership branding from your car will vary depending on the type of branding and the method you use. If you’re doing it yourself, you can expect to spend a few dollars on supplies, such as solvents and a heat gun. If you’re having a professional do it, you can expect to pay depends on requirement.
At Car Photo Backgrounding, we offer affordable car dealership branding removal services. We have experienced editors who are primarily dedicated to doing this job.
FAQs
Is it necessary to remove dealership branding for car resale?
Removing the front license plate can enhance the car’s appearance by making it appear cleaner and more streamlined. This is especially true for vehicles with a large front grille or bumper, as the license plate can obstruct the view of these features.
Can removing dealership branding damage the car’s paint?
If done improperly, yes. However, following the proper techniques and using gentle products minimizes this risk.
How long does it take to remove dealership branding?
The amount of time it takes to brand a product depends on the method and the type of branding. For example, stickers and decals can be applied in minutes, while badges can take up to an hour to create. The following is a breakdown of the different branding methods and their average application times:
- Stickers and decals: These are the most common types of branding and can be applied quickly and easily. The average application time for stickers and decals is around 5 minutes.
- Badges: Badges are a more permanent form of branding and require more time to create. The average application time for badges is around 30 minutes.
- Laser engraving: This more sophisticated form of branding creates a permanent, high-quality image. The average application time for laser engraving is around 1 hour.
- Screen printing: This is a cost-effective way to brand large quantities of products. The average application time for screen printing is around 2 hours.
Should I wash my car before or after the removal process?
It’s a good idea to wash your car before and after the process to ensure the area is clean and remove any residue.
Can any professional car service remove dealership branding?
Most car detailing or auto body shops can handle this task, but choosing one with specific experience in decal or badge removal is best.
Conclusion
So, can you remove the dealership branding from a car? Yes, you can. Removing dealership branding from your car is a simple way to personalize its appearance. Whether you do it yourself or seek professional image editing service help, the key is approaching the process carefully and patiently. Remember, your car is an extension of your personality and should reflect your style, branding-free or otherwise!
