How much is it to wrap a Subaru Outback?

Expect roughly $2,500 to $6,000 for a full wrap on a Subaru Outback as of 2025, with higher-end finishes and regional labor rates pushing toward the upper end. A partial wrap costs substantially less, typically hundreds to a few thousand dollars depending on coverage.

Pricing ranges by wrap type

These ranges reflect common pricing for different wrap approaches in the United States, and can vary by shop, material, and location.

• Full wrap (complete exterior coverage): typically $2,500–$5,000 for standard vinyl; premium finishes or high-demand colors can push toward $5,000–$7,000 in some markets.


• Matte or satin finishes: commonly $3,000–$6,000 due to specialized materials and extra prep work; color-shift or chrome-like options may add to the cost.


• Gloss color changes (e.g., changing from a light color to black or vibrant tones): generally $2,800–$4,800 depending on shop and prep needs.


• Specialty finishes (chrome, brushed metal, carbon fiber, or color-shift): typically $4,000–$8,000 or more depending on complexity and coverage.


• Partial wrap (hood, roof, or select panels): usually $500–$2,500 depending on area covered and complexity.

Concluding paragraph: The overall price depends on coverage, finish, and regional labor rates; premium finishes and metro-area shops tend to be on the higher end.

What affects the price

Several factors determine the final quote for wrapping a Subaru Outback, including coverage scope, material quality, and installation challenges.

• Scope of coverage: full vehicle wrap vs. partial coverage affects material cost and labor time.


• Material quality and finish: basic vinyl vs. premium brands and specialty finishes influence price.


• Surface condition and prep: existing wrap removal, paint repairs, and thorough cleaning add time and cost.


• Complexity and vehicle geometry: Outbacks have curves, edges, and trim that require meticulous work, impacting labor hours.


• Labor rates and regional pricing: metropolitan areas or high-demand shops may charge more per hour.


• Warranties and aftercare: some shops include extended warranties or care kits, which can affect the total.

Concluding paragraph: Always obtain a detailed, written quote that itemizes materials, coverage, installation time, and any post-installation care requirements.

Process and timeline

Understanding the typical flow helps gauge when you’ll be without your vehicle and what’s included in the service.

1. Consultation and design: agree on color, finish, and which panels will be wrapped.


2. Prep and surface inspection: assess paint condition, remove old wrap if present, and thoroughly clean all surfaces.


3. Material selection and proofing: choose vinyl brand, finish, and color; review swatches or proofs.


4. Installation: apply the wrap in a controlled environment; timeline commonly ranges from 2 to 5 days depending on coverage.


5. Final inspection and care guidance: check seams and edges; receive maintenance instructions for longevity.

Concluding paragraph: Plan ahead for a multi-day project and follow the installer’s care guidance to maximize durability and appearance.

Maintenance and care expectations

Vinyl wraps require different upkeep than factory paint. Use vinyl-safe cleaners, microfiber cloths, and avoid abrasive brushes or harsh solvents that can lift edges.

Concluding paragraph: With proper care, most standard vinyl wraps on a Subaru Outback can last about 5–7 years, depending on climate, exposure, and maintenance habits.

Summary

Wrapping a Subaru Outback typically falls in the $2,500 to $6,000 range for a full wrap in the United States, with higher-end materials and specialty finishes pushing beyond that. Partial wraps are substantially cheaper, and regional differences plus shop quality can affect pricing. Always secure a detailed written quote that covers materials, coverage, installation timelines, and care instructions, and factor in maintenance to maximize the wrap’s lifespan.

How much would it cost to wrap a full car?

A typical car wrap can cost anything from £1,800 to £5,000 and can depend on the complexity of the project and individual wrap shop pricing. If your car wrapping budget is around £1,000 to £1,500, this can usually be achieved by leaving out door handles, mirrors and even the bumpers and sills.

How long will a wrap last on a car?

A car wrap can last anywhere from 3 to 7 years, with 5 to 7 years being a common range for high-quality vinyl under good conditions. The exact lifespan depends on factors like the quality of the vinyl, the installation, the wrap's finish (e.g., gloss, matte, chrome), and how well the car is maintained and cared for, especially concerning its exposure to sun and weather.
 
Factors influencing a wrap's lifespan

• Vinyl quality: Higher-quality materials are more durable and resist fading and peeling better than cheaper alternatives. 
• Installation: A professional and high-quality installation is crucial to prevent issues like lifting edges and bubbling. 
• Wrap finish: Some finishes have different lifespans. For example, chrome wraps typically last 2 to 3 years, while carbon fiber and gloss wraps can last 5 to 7 years. 
• Weather and sun exposure: Intense sun, extreme temperatures, and harsh weather conditions can shorten the lifespan of a wrap by causing fading, cracking, or peeling. 
• Maintenance: Regular cleaning with pH-neutral soap and avoiding automatic car washes with harsh brushes will help extend the life of the wrap. 

Lifespan by finish

• Gloss: 4 to 7 years
• Satin: 4 to 6 years
• Matte: 3 to 6 years
• Carbon Fiber: 5 to 7 years
• Chrome: 1 to 2 years (requires extra care)
• Fluorescent: 3 months to 1 year 

Can a wrapped car go through a carwash?

Yes, a wrapped car can go through a car wash, but only if it's a touchless or brushless automatic wash or if it's hand-washed. Automatic washes with brushes can scratch, dull, or lift the vinyl wrap, and some high-pressure jets can also cause damage. 
Recommended methods 
This video shows the process of taking a wrapped car through a touchless car wash: 1mSmeediaYouTube · Aug 18, 2020

• Hand washing: This is the safest method. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, non-abrasive soap, and rinse thoroughly. A silicone squeegee and a clean microfiber cloth can be used to dry the car. 
• Touchless car wash: If you must use an automatic wash, choose one that is touchless, as it uses high-pressure water and soap instead of brushes. 

What to avoid

• Brush-based car washes: The abrasive brushes can scratch the wrap and lift its edges. 
• Harsh chemicals: Avoid car washes that use harsh chemicals that can degrade the vinyl. 
• High-pressure jets: Be cautious with power washers, as holding a high-pressure jet too close or at an angle can lift the edges of the wrap. 

Additional tips

• Check the wrap's condition: A high-quality, professional wrap in good condition will hold up better than an older or poorly installed one. 
• Avoid finishing products: If using a touchless wash, skip any extra protectants or finishing products, as they may contain chemicals that can damage the wrap. 

Is it cheaper to wrap or paint a car?

It is cheaper to wrap a car for a lower initial cost, typically ranging from $1,000$ 1 comma 000$1,000 to $5,000$ 5 comma 000$5,000. In contrast, a high-quality paint job can start at several thousand dollars and climb to over $20,000$ 20 comma 000$20,000. However, the long-term cost can vary because wraps may have a shorter lifespan than paint, and repairing a damaged wrap can be more costly per panel than paint. 
Car wraps

• Initial cost: Generally cheaper than painting, with a typical range of $1,000$ 1 comma 000$1,000 to $5,000$ 5 comma 000$5,000. 
• Durability: Protects the original paint but is less durable than paint, can be damaged by car washes or sun, and may last 1-7 years depending on quality and climate. 
• Repairs: A damaged section of a wrap requires replacing the entire panel, which can be more expensive than fixing a small spot on a painted surface. 
• Customization: Offers a vast array of colors and finishes, including patterns and textures that are impossible with paint. 
• Reversibility: Can be removed to restore the original paintwork. 

Car painting

• Initial cost: Significantly higher, starting at several thousand dollars and potentially exceeding $20,000$ 20 comma 000$20,000 for high-quality finishes. 
• Durability: Generally more durable than a wrap. 
• Repairs: Minor scratches or chips can be easier and cheaper to fix than on a wrap. However, a full-blown paint repair from damage can be costly. 
• Customization: Color options are limited by the availability of paint types. 
• Reversibility: A permanent change to the car's color. 

Which to choose

• Choose a wrap if: You want a lower upfront cost, are looking for a wide variety of colors and finishes, or want the option to revert to the original color later. 
• Choose a paint job if: You prefer a more traditional, professional look and are willing to pay a higher initial cost for a more durable and permanent finish.