Car Wrap Cost Guide 2025: Prices by Vehicle Size

If you're considering a car wrap, the first question on your mind is probably "how much will this cost?" The answer depends on several factors, but we'll break down everything you need to know to budget accurately for your wrap project.

At Blackout Window Tinting in Gilroy, we've been wrapping vehicles since 1993 and have seen pricing evolve alongside materials and techniques. Here's our straightforward guide to car wrap costs in 2025.

Quick Cost Overview by Vehicle Type

These ranges reflect quality installations using premium films like 3M, Avery Dennison, KPMF, and Inozetek.

What Affects Car Wrap Pricing?

1. Vehicle Size and Complexity

The most significant factor is how much vinyl you need. A Honda Civic requires roughly 50-60 square feet of material, while a GMC Yukon might need 75-90 square feet. More surface area means more material and labor.

Complex body lines also add time. Vehicles with deep curves, body cladding, or intricate designs (like a Lamborghini) require more skilled labor than a flat-sided truck.

2. Coverage Level

Full Color Change Wrap: Covers all painted surfaces, typically including door jambs and under-hood areas visible when opened. This is the most comprehensive option and runs $3,995+ for most vehicles at our shop.

Partial Wrap: Covers select panels—common choices include:

• Roof wrap: $400–$700
• Hood wrap: $300–$500
• Roof + hood combo: $600–$1,000
• Doors and quarter panels: $800–$1,500

Accent Wraps: Targeted coverage like chrome delete, mirror caps, or trim pieces runs $400–$800 depending on scope.

3. Film Quality and Brand

Not all vinyl is equal. Premium films from established manufacturers cost more but deliver better results:

We primarily use Inozetek SuperGloss alongside 3M, Avery, and KPMF catalogs because the results justify the investment.

4. Finish Type

The finish you choose affects both material cost and installation difficulty:

• Gloss: Standard pricing, easiest to work with
• Satin/Semi-Gloss: Slight premium, popular modern look
• Matte: 10-15% premium, requires careful handling
• Metallic/Chrome: 20-30% premium, challenging installation
• Color Shift/Chameleon: 30-50% premium, specialty films

5. Current Paint Condition

If your paint has chips, rust, or previous damage, the wrap won't hide it—it'll highlight it. Vehicles needing prep work before wrapping add $200-$500+ to the project for paint correction or touch-ups.

6. Design Complexity

A single-color wrap is straightforward. Add custom graphics, stripes, logos, or multi-color designs and you're looking at design fees ($100-$500+) plus additional installation time.

Cost Breakdown: Sedan vs SUV vs Truck

Sedan Wrap Cost (Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, BMW 3-Series)

Sedans are generally the most affordable to wrap due to moderate surface area and accessible body lines.

• Full gloss color change: $3,000–$4,500
• Roof and hood only: $600–$900
• Chrome delete package: $400–$600

SUV Wrap Cost (Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, BMW X5)

SUVs cost more due to increased surface area, higher roof lines, and often more complex body cladding.

• Full gloss color change: $4,000–$5,500
• Roof and hood only: $700–$1,100
• Chrome delete package: $500–$800

Truck Wrap Cost (Ford F-150, RAM 1500, Toyota Tundra)

Trucks present unique challenges: bed rails, tailgates, and cab configurations all affect pricing.

• Full gloss color change (cab only): $3,000–$4,000
• Full wrap including bed: $4,500–$6,000
• Roof and hood only: $600–$1,000
• Tailgate wrap: $300–$500

Luxury and Exotic Vehicle Wrap Cost

Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and high-end vehicles command premium pricing due to complex curves, specialty materials often required, and the precision expected.

• Full wrap: $5,500–$10,000+
• Partial protection wraps: $2,000–$4,000

Full Wrap vs Partial Wrap: What's Worth It?

When Full Wraps Make Sense

• You want a complete color change
• The factory paint is in good condition and worth protecting
• You plan to keep the vehicle 3+ years
• Resale value matters (wrap protects original paint)

When Partial Wraps Are Better

• You want accent styling (two-tone roof, hood accents)
• Budget is limited but you still want vinyl benefits
• You're testing the look before committing to full coverage
• Business branding on select panels

How Long Does a Car Wrap Last?

Quality wraps last 5-7 years with proper care. Factors that affect longevity:

• Sun exposure: Vehicles parked outside fade faster
• Wash habits: Hand washing extends life; harsh chemicals shorten it
• Film quality: Premium films outlast budget options significantly
• Installation quality: Proper prep and technique prevent lifting

We provide care instructions with every wrap and offer maintenance tips to maximize your investment.

DIY vs Professional Installation

You'll find vinyl wraps online for $500-$1,500 for a full car kit. Sounds tempting, but consider:

DIY Challenges:

• Professional installers spend 2-5 days on a full wrap
• Improper installation causes bubbles, lifting, and premature failure
• Mistakes on curves and complex areas are costly
• No warranty on self-installed work

Professional Benefits:

• Trained installers, proper tools, climate-controlled environment
• Warranty coverage (typically 2+ years on labor)
• Proper prep ensures adhesion and longevity
• Time saved—your car is ready when promised

The price difference between DIY and professional installation often disappears when you factor in wasted material, time, and potential do-overs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to wrap a small car?

Small cars like Honda Civics, Toyota Corollas, or Mazda 3s typically cost $3,000–$4,000 for a full color change wrap using quality materials. Partial wraps (roof, hood) run $600–$900.

How much does it cost to wrap an SUV?

Mid-size SUVs like Toyota 4Runners or Jeep Grand Cherokees run $4,000–$5,500 for full wraps. Larger SUVs like Chevy Suburbans or GMC Yukons cost $5,000–$6,500 due to increased surface area.

How much does it cost to wrap a truck?

Pickup trucks vary widely. Cab-only wraps run $3,000–$4,000, while full coverage including the bed costs $4,500–$6,000. Larger trucks like Ford Super Dutys trend toward the higher end.

Is wrapping a car cheaper than painting?

Yes, typically. A quality paint job runs $3,000–$10,000+ depending on finish and prep work. Wraps offer comparable visual impact at similar or lower cost, with the added benefit of protecting factory paint and being reversible.

Can you wrap a car with bad paint?

You can, but the wrap will show imperfections. Dents, chips, and texture will telegraph through vinyl. We recommend addressing major paint issues first or accepting that wraps won't hide existing damage.

How long does a wrap installation take?

Full wraps typically take 3-5 days. Partial wraps and chrome deletes can often be completed in 1-2 days. We prefer not to rush—proper installation requires time for prep, application, and post-heat treatment.

Does wrapping a car affect resale value?

Usually positively. Quality wraps protect factory paint, which buyers value. When removed properly, the original paint underneath is preserved. Just ensure professional removal when selling.

Get an Accurate Quote

Every vehicle is different. The best way to know your exact cost is to bring your car by for inspection. We'll assess the body condition, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed quote—no surprises.

At Blackout Window Tinting, we've been serving Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Jose, and the greater Bay Area since 1993. Contact us for a free consultation, or call 408-848-8468 to schedule your appointment.

Ready to transform your ride? Get your free wrap quote today.