Customizing cars has always been a great hobby for people. In more recent years, the use of vinyl decals has become a popular way to personalize vehicles without the commitment of a paint job. Among those decals, carbon fiber has become popular as a way to not only protect your vehicle, but also give it a whole new look. While many have covered the basics of how to install carbon fiber, very few give a thought to the removal process, which is why we’ve decided to cover it here.
Whether the material has faded, ripped, or you just decide to switch things up, you want to make sure you’re careful when removing any decals so you don’t damage the paint underneath or leave behind a sticky residue. The key to removing decals is patience. The process is not very difficult, but it will take time, so it is better not to rush in order to avoid accidents.
Like the application process, it’s best to start with heat. Most professionals will use a heat gun, but a blow dryer will suffice if necessary. You need to work in sections when heating the decal, there is no point in heating the entire space as you won’t be able to work fast enough to remove everything before it cools. Heating the decal helps soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove. Make sure not to overheat it though, as it can make the adhesive too sticky, allowing it to work harder in the long run.
Once you have heated the decal, start at one corner and begin to gently peel the decal. You can usually do this with your fingernails, but you can also use a plastic scraper or old credit card if necessary. DO NOT use metal; this will damage the paint job underneath. Smaller decals may come off in one go, but for larger spaces you’ll need to work on them and they may tear in places.
When peeling, be sure to work at about a 120 degree angle, which means pulling the material back toward the remaining decal. Keeping the material at a low angle will reduce the amount of stress on the vinyl, making it less likely to tear in the process.
Once the decal is removed you may notice some sticky residue left behind. Many stores offer products made specifically to remove this residue, but be sure not to use harsh chemicals, as this can damage the surface. After removing the sticky residue, clean the area with a mild soap and water to remove any remaining residue and be sure to allow the surface to dry completely before installing another decal.
I hope all these tips and tricks make the removal process easier!