How to prepare and clean plastics before installing a graphic kit

Proper plastic preparation is essential for a clean and long-lasting installation. Before you begin, take the time to thoroughly clean and degrease all surfaces.

🧰 Tools required

• Warm water
• Soap or mild degreasing cleaner
• Clean, lint-free cloths
• Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
• Paper towels or clean microfiber
• Air blower or compressed air, if available

1. Remove the plastics

If possible, remove the plastics from the vehicle.

This makes it easier to work and ensures proper access to the different areas. Then, place the parts on a clean surface to avoid scratching or dirtying them.

2. Remove existing stickers

If the plastics already have stickers or an old graphic kit, they must be completely removed before installing the new one.

1. Gently heat the sticker using a hairdryer or a heat gun set to low temperature.
2. Gently lift a corner with your fingernail or a suitable squeegee.
3. Pull the sticker off gradually while maintaining a shallow angle to avoid leaving too much adhesive behind.
4. Remove adhesive residue with a plastic-safe product.

⚠️ Warning: do not overheat the plastic and avoid using metal tools that could scratch or damage it.

👉 Tip: if the old sticker is very old or difficult to remove, heat the area gradually rather than pulling hard on it.

3. Clean the plastics

Start by washing the plastics thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.

Pay particular attention to areas where the following can accumulate:

• mud;
• dust;
• grease;
• residue from cleaning products;
• traces of fuel or oil

Don't forget to clean the inside as well.

Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

4. Dry completely

Dry the plastics with a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth.

It is important that there is no trace of water or moisture left, especially in recesses and around mounting points.

4. Degrease with isopropyl alcohol

Once the plastics are clean and dry, wipe a cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) over the surfaces that will receive the stickers.

This step removes any final traces of grease and products that could prevent the adhesive from sticking properly.

⚠️ Always perform a test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the product is compatible with your plastic.

5. Check the surface

Before starting the installation, check that the plastics are:

Clean + dry + degreased + dust-free.

Give the surface one last wipe with a clean microfiber cloth if necessary.

🚫 What to avoid

Do not use:

• greasy or glossy products;
• wax or polish;
• silicone;
• products that leave a protective film;
• a dirty or linty cloth.

Products to avoid for cleaning: WD-40, Vulcanet, Unpass, Mafrasol, etc.

These products can reduce the adhesion of the graphic kit.

✅ Ready for installation!

Once the plastics are properly prepared, you can begin installing your graphic kit.

Good preparation = better adhesion + cleaner installation + longer life for the kit.