Car Wrapping: Costs, Options & What You Should Consider
Why Wrap a Car in the First Place?
Whether you want a sporty look, a matte finish, or simply paint protection, wrapping offers many advantages:
- Visual Change: Color, gloss, and effects can be flexibly customized.
- Paint Protection: The wrap protects the original paint from stone chips, UV radiation, and minor scratches.
- Removable Without Residue: Unlike painting, the original paint remains undamaged.
- Resale Value: The original paintwork is preserved, especially in the case of high-quality vehicles.
Particularly in the case of used or damaged vehicles from auctions – such as those offered by Copart – wrapping is a popular method of giving the vehicle a new look at a reasonable cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Car Wrapped?
The cost of professional wrapping depends on several factors:
- Vehicle size
- Type of film (matte, metallic, textured film, effect film)
- Quality and durability of the film
- Number and complexity of the components to be wrapped
Guidelines for Wrapping in a Specialist Workshop:
| Service | Cost approx. |
| Complete wrapping of a small car | €1,200–€1,800 |
| Complete wrapping of a mid-size car | €1,500–€2,500 |
| Complete wrapping of an SUV/van | €2,000–€3,500 |
| Partial wrapping (e.g., roof, mirrors) | €200–€600 |
Additional costs may arise for dismantling (e.g., door handles, moldings) or special films.
Car Wrapping Cost Calculator:
Many providers now offer free calculators on their websites to give an initial price indication – the above price ranges are usually a good guide.
Wrapping Your Car Yourself – a Good Idea or Not?
Legally:
Yes, it is permitted. You are allowed to wrap your car yourself; there are no legal obstacles.
Practically:
Technically, it is possible – but it takes a lot of practice, patience, and the right equipment. If you are not careful, you risk getting bubbles, wrinkles, or an uneven finish.
How Much Does It Cost to Wrap a Car Yourself?
For a DIY wrap, you will need:
- High-quality film (~€300–€600 depending on vehicle size and film)
- Wrapping tools (~€50–€100 for a set)
- Plenty of time and a dust-free room
Total DIY cost: €400–€700
For comparison: With professional wrapping, you usually pay double or more, depending on the vehicle class. However, the result is usually more durable and bubble-free when done by a professional.
Wrapping Your Car Yourself or Having It Wrapped – the Comparison
| Criterion | Wrap It Yourself | Have It Wrapped Professionally |
| Costs | Cheaper (approx. €400–€700 material costs) | Higher (from approx. €1,200 depending on vehicle and film) |
| Result | Depends on skill & experience | Perfect, durable finish with guarantee |
| Time Required | High – several days necessary | Low for the customer (car is dropped off) |
| Risk of Errors | Bubbles, edge lift possible | Very low with professional execution |
| Individual Design | Completely customizable, DIY charm | Also customizable, often with an even wider selection |
| Paint Protection | Possible, depending on the quality of the workmanship | Optimal protection thanks to professional application |
| Who Is It Suitable For? | DIY enthusiasts, those who like to experiment, project vehicles (e.g. from Copart) | Perfectionists, leased vehicles, high-end vehicles |
If you enjoy tinkering and want to customize your project vehicle, you can try applying the film yourself—ideal for inexpensive or damaged vehicles, such as those often found at Copart. However, if you are looking for absolute perfection, long durability, and value retention, you should leave it to the professionals.
What Do I Need to Bear in Mind When Applying the Film?
Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional:
Before applying the film, the paintwork must be thoroughly cleaned – ideally, it should also be polished. Otherwise, any unevenness in the paintwork will be visible under the film. The film will not adhere permanently to surfaces that are already rusty or severely damaged.
Especially in the case of used or accident-damaged vehicles that have been purchased at auction, such as at Copart, you should check the following before applying the film:
- Has all body damage been repaired?
- Are the paint surfaces smooth and stable?
- Is the original paint still stable?
Only then does wrapping make sense.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Car Wrapping
Can I wrap my car myself?
Yes, that is permitted. With practice and the right tools, it is possible.
How much does it cost to wrap a car yourself?
Depending on the size of the vehicle and the film, material costs are around €400–700.
How much does it cost to have a car professionally wrapped?
Depending on the size of the vehicle and the film, it costs around €1,200–3,500.
How can flash rust be removed from the car before wrapping?
The best way is to use cleaning clay or flash rust remover. The surface must be completely clean before wrapping.
How long does a wrap last?
Depending on the film and care, about 3–7 years.
Conclusion: Car Wrapping – a Smart Way to Get a New Look and Protection
Whether as a design statement or paint protection, a wrap offers many advantages. If you have experience and a little time, you can also wrap your vehicle yourself. However, for perfect results, it is usually worth going to a professional.
Wrapping is an interesting option, especially for used or damaged vehicles such as those offered by Copart: the original paintwork remains protected and minor blemishes can be cleverly concealed.
👉 Discover suitable vehicles: Browse now at Copart.de
