Vinyl Installation Instructions

Welcome to our guide on how to properly install your Mustang Restyled vinyl products on your car. Vinyl decals are a great way to personalize and enhance the style of your vehicle, and with the right technique, you can achieve a professional-looking installation.

CERAMIC COATED CARS: Please understand that your ceramic coating will reduce the vinyl's ability to stick to your car, and may lead to easy peeling or pulling away. It is strongly recommended that you first remove the ceramic coating in the areas your wish to put the vinyl on, then once the vinyl is installed and has had time to fully set in, re-apply the ceramic coating to the area.

NOTE: If you are not familiar with vinyl decal or car wrap installation, we strongly recommend professional installation to reduce the risk for error or mistakes. We understand that mistakes happen. While mistakes in installation are not covered in our returns policy, if you should slip up and need some replacement pieces, please reach out to us via email: support@mustangrestyled.com and we will do everything we can to get you just the replacement pieces you need at a reduced price.

These steps are general guidelines for all vinyl installations and should be read if you are unfamiliar with the process. For detailed install photos and tips for specific products, use the links below:

Follow the steps below to ensure a successful application:

Materials Needed:

  • Vinyl decal
  • Heat source (such as a heat gun or hairdryer)
  • Squeegee (preferably felt tip to avoid damaging the vinyl) or credit card (with microfiber cloth wrapped around it)
  • Clean cloth or microfiber towel
  • Isopropyl alcohol and filtered water solution with 70% alcohol and 30% water (distilled water preferred)
  • (optional) Application fluid (soapy water fixture, RapidTac, Windex have all been shown to work well)

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Before applying the vinyl decal, make sure the surface of your car is clean and free of any dirt, dust, or wax. Do not use cleaners that have wax or ceramic additives for this process as that could reduce the adhesion of the vinyl. Once cleaned, use a clean cloth or microfiber towel and an isopropyl alcohol solution. Mix 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water. Alcohol will help cut through any oils left on the car's surface. One method that works well is to wipe the alcohol solution over the vehicle with a clean cloth, drying as you go with the hairdryer or heat gun. You may want to repeat this process just before vinyl application. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.


Step 2: Test Position the Decal


Once the surface is clean and dry, carefully position the vinyl decal on the desired area of your car with the backing STILL ON.

If the backing for your vinyl piece is cut to shape and is still in place, you can use automotive detailing tape or painter's tape to temporarily hold the decal in place, ensuring it is aligned and centered correctly. However, most of our designs come on a longer sheet and the backing is not cut to shape, so this option may not apply.

Step 3: Wet Method

Using a vinyl wet application solution, such as soapy water mixture or Rapid Tac 2, mist the area with fluid before applying the decal.

Step 4 (Wet Method): Peel, Stick, and Adjust

Starting from one corner of the decal, slowly peel off the backing paper, exposing the adhesive side of the vinyl. Place the decal on the wet application fluid on your car. Gently adjust or shift it until the in the desired final position. Use the squeegee or a credit card (wrapped in microfiber cloth) to press the decal onto the surface, working from the center outwards. Apply firm and even pressure to ensure proper adhesion and to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.

Once applied, wipe off and clean off any remaining application fluid.

Step 3: Heat/Dry Method

Using a heat gun or hairdryer set to a low heat setting, gently warm the surface of the car where the decal will be applied. This will help the vinyl adhesive bond better to the surface and make it more pliable for easier installation. Be cautious not to overheat the vinyl or the car's paint.

Step 4 (Dry Method): Peel and Stick

Starting from one corner of the decal, slowly peel off the backing paper, exposing the adhesive side of the vinyl. Place the vinyl in the exact spot using a corner or main edge of the vinyl as your anchor point. Use the squeegee or a credit card (wrapped in microfiber cloth) to press the decal onto the surface, working from the center outwards. Apply firm and even pressure to ensure proper adhesion and to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.

Step 5: Smooth and Secure

Once the decal is fully applied, use the squeegee or credit card wrapped in microfiber to smooth out any remaining air bubbles or wrinkles. Work from the center towards the edges, applying firm pressure to ensure a smooth and secure installation. Pay extra attention to any intricate details or edges of the decal.

Step 6: Final Touches

After the decal is securely applied, use the heat gun or hairdryer again to gently warm the surface of the decal, applying just a couple seconds of heat. This will help the adhesive bond even further and ensure a long-lasting installation. Use the squeegee or credit card to press down one final time for a clean and professional finish.

Step 7: Bake and Wait

It is recommended that you leave the newly applied vinyl on the car untouched for up to 2-3 weeks. Let it bake in the sun as much as possible to further improve and set the adhesive. Once 2-3 weeks has passed, you should be safe to resume standard car washing, though we strongly recommend against using an automated tunnel car wash for long-term durability.

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And there you have it! By following these steps, you can successfully install vinyl decals on your car. Remember to take your time, work carefully, and enjoy the process of customizing your vehicle. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at support@mustangrestyled.com