How do I apply a decal or bumper sticker to my car?
Wash the spot, then wipe it with rubbing alcohol so no wax or grease is left. Apply the decal on a mild day, not in hot sun or cold, and press it down firmly from the center out with a plastic card. Wait a few days before a car wash, and keep pressure washers away from the edges.
| Prep | Wash, then rubbing alcohol to remove wax |
|---|---|
| Best conditions | Mild, dry, out of direct sun |
| Before car wash | Wait a few days |
| Placement | Flat areas; avoid seams and edges of panels |
Step by step
- Pick the spot. Choose a flat or gently curved area. Avoid panel gaps, deep curves and spots where a wiper blade runs.
- Clean thoroughly. Wash with soap and water, rinse, dry, then wipe with rubbing alcohol. Wax and polish stop adhesive from bonding.
- Check the weather. Apply when the surface is cool to the touch and dry.
- Hinge and apply. Tape the top edge, peel the backing, and press down from the center outward with a plastic card.
- Press the edges. Go over every edge a second time. Edges are where decals fail first.
- Give it time. Skip car washes for a few days. After that, keep pressure-washer nozzles away from the edges.
Windows vs paint
On glass, the same steps apply, and a clear decal on a rear window is easy to remove later with gentle heat. On paint, a decal protects the paint under it from sun, so the color around it can fade slightly over years. That's normal for any car decal.
Removing it later
Warm it with a hair dryer and peel slowly at a low angle. See our guide on removing sticker residue for any leftover glue.
Related questions
- Will a bumper sticker damage my paint?
- A quality vinyl sticker applied to factory paint usually comes off cleanly with gentle heat. Repainted or damaged paint can lift when the sticker is removed.
- Are your stickers OK through a car wash?
- Yes. Our stickers are printed on vinyl and laminated, so they are waterproof. Let the adhesive bond for a few days first.