How Much Does It Cost to Wrap a Car in the UK?

In the UK, wrapping a car typically costs between £1,200 and £3,000, depending on the vehicle size, wrap quality, and complexity of the job. For high-end finishes like chrome, colour-shifting, or textured wraps, prices can exceed £4,000.

If you're considering a wrap to change the colour of your car, protect the paintwork, or promote a business, it's important to understand the true cost, the differences between DIY vs professional jobs, and the realities of wrap maintenance.

Cost Breakdown: DIY vs Professional Car Wrapping

Professional Wrap

Pros of a professional wrap:

• Expert installation = fewer bubbles or creases

• Warranty often included (typically 1–5 years)

• Proper prep and tools

• Paint protection without damage

Cons:

• Higher cost upfront

• You’ll need to book in advance and leave the car for a few days

DIY Wrap

Wrapping your car yourself can cost between £300 and £700 for materials alone, depending on the brand and finish of the wrap.

Pros of DIY wrapping:

• Saves money on labour

• Flexibility to do it in stages

• Satisfying if done well

Cons:

• Time-consuming and tricky

• Easy to mess up without experience

• No guarantee or professional finish

• Mistakes can damage your paint or waste material

Unless you’re confident and have experience, it’s usually worth paying for a professional job — especially on newer or more valuable vehicles.

How Long Does a Car Wrap Last?

A high-quality vinyl wrap should last 5 to 7 years with proper care. After that, the wrap may start to fade, peel at the edges, or lose its finish — especially if it's been exposed to harsh sunlight or poor weather.

Specialist finishes like chrome or carbon fibre usually have a shorter lifespan of around 3 to 5 years.

Maintenance: How to Look After a Wrapped Car

Wrapped cars need a bit more care than painted ones, but it’s nothing drastic.

• Hand wash only – Avoid automatic car washes with brushes

• Use non-abrasive cleaners – No polish or wax with solvents

• Avoid pressure washers on edges – It can cause peeling

• Park in the shade where possible – UV rays can fade wraps

• Wipe off bird poo and sap quickly – They can stain wraps just like paint

With a bit of attention, your wrap will stay looking sharp for years.

How to Spot a Bodge Job Car Wrap

A poor-quality wrap is easy to spot once you know what to look for:

• Bubbles and creases – Sign of bad prep or rushed work

• Edges lifting or peeling – Poor trimming or weak adhesive

• Visible seams in obvious places – A good installer hides them well

• Wrap covering dirt or rust – The surface underneath should be spotless before wrapping

• Overstretched vinyl – Causes discolouration or thinning in tight curves

Always ask to see before-and-after photos from your wrap installer, and check for reviews or recommendations before booking.

Can a Car Wrap Hide Damage?

Yes — and it’s something buyers should be cautious about.

A wrap can cover up dents, scratches, mismatched paint, or even rust. While it’s not the purpose of a wrap, it can be used to disguise poor bodywork.

If you’re buying a car that’s been wrapped, consider asking for photos of it pre-wrap, or having it professionally inspected. You could unwrap a great deal — or a costly mistake.

Final Thought

Wrapping a car in the UK costs between £1,200 and £3,000, with DIY options from £300 if you’re brave and skilled. A good wrap can last up to 7 years, protect your paint, and dramatically change your car’s look — but cheap or careless jobs can lead to disappointment.

If you’re investing in a wrap, choose your installer carefully, maintain it properly, and know what’s underneath before buying a wrapped vehicle. Done right, a car wrap is a fantastic alternative to respraying — stylish, protective, and totally reversible.