Our team has put in great care and expertise to create your custom car pillar stickers, focusing on every tiny detail. Now that they’ve arrived, it’s time to give your vehicle that upgraded look you’ve been waiting for! Before you dive into the installation, it’s important to be familiar with the proper methods for applying vinyl stickers. In this guide, we’ll cover each step of the process and explore the key techniques that ensure a seamless application.

Before beginning the application process, gather the necessary tools and materials:

Tools and Materials:

• Cleaning supplies (isopropyl alcohol, lint-free microfiber cloth)
• Rubber squeegee (preferably with a felt edge) or credit card
• Masking tape or magnets (optional)
• Scissors
• Hobby knife
• Heat gun or hair dryer (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Thoroughly wash the door pillar area with soap and water solution to remove dirt and debris. Use rubbing alcohol or an automotive surface cleaner to wipe down the pillar surfaces. This step removes any remaining oils, residues, or contaminants that could otherwise hinder the vinyl’s ability to adhere properly. Ensure that the vehicle’s windows and panels adjacent to the pillars are thoroughly cleaned as well to avoid trapping grease or dirt under the vinyl, which could lead to poor adhesion and cause the film to lift over time. Wait until the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

Avoid using Windex or similar products, as they can leave a residue that hinders the sticker’s adhesion. Don’t forget to wash your hands too to remove excess oil or dirt, as the pillar sticker wrap comes without an additional transfer layer, and you might touch the adhesive during installation.

Put windows all the way down. If your model has window runner channels attached to the B-pillars, remove them from both the front and rear doors by gently prying them out by hand. If your pillars do not have these runners, you can skip this step.

Measure the height and width of the pillar, ensuring to account for extra material on each side (left, right, top and bottom) for trimming. It’s recommended to add about 2 inches extra on all sides for easier application and full coverage. Once you’ve determined the amount of vinyl film required for wrapping your pillars, you can start with a rough cut and proceed to test fit the pieces. Using a pair of scissors, cut the vinyl wrap to roughly the size and shape you’ll need, keeping the extra material for trimming. Please note that each of our pillar wrap stickers comes with extra design image, and some parts will need to be trimmed. Position the sticker during this step so that you leave as much of the image as needed. You can apply it at an angle if your pillars have extra curves or are positioned at an angle.

While primarily intended for exterior styling, pillar sticker vinyl wraps also provide an affordable way to cover scratches or small dents. Vinyl can effectively cover minor imperfections, but significant dents should be fixed before applying the vinyl since they could remain visible after the wrapping is complete.

Hold the vinyl wrap against the pillar to ensure it covers the entire area with some excess on all sides. If needed, use masking tape to hold it in place and check the alignment. Begin peeling the backing paper from the top edge of the vinyl wrap, exposing about 2 inches of adhesive. Be careful not to touch the adhesive side with your fingers to avoid contamination. Carefully align the top edge of the vinyl with the pillar, ensuring it’s straight. Once aligned, lightly press the exposed adhesive to hold it in place. Using a squeegee, slowly work your way down the pillar, applying gentle pressure to smooth out the vinyl as you go. Use a side-to-side motion to avoid trapping air bubbles under the surface. As you move down, continue peeling away the backing paper in small sections while applying the vinyl. This ensures better control and reduces the risk of misalignment. If the pillar has curved or contoured sections, use a heat gun or hair dryer on a low setting to slightly warm the vinyl. This makes it more pliable and easier to stretch around curves. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can damage the vinyl.

Once you’ve installed the pillar stickers, inspect the vinyl for any remaining air bubbles. It’s common to find some areas that need attention. Use the microfiber side of your squeegee to smooth out bubbles, pushing them towards the edges of the sticker. For stubborn bubbles that resist moving, try merging them by pressing them together, then carefully puncture the vinyl with an X-acto knife. This will allow you to use the squeegee to push the air out through the small opening. Avoid applying excessive force during this process, as it can cause creases and wrinkles in the vinyl.

Once the vinyl is fully applied, use a sharp utility knife or precision cutting tool to trim the excess material. Use the edges of the pillar, window molding, or door panel as a guide for clean, straight cuts. Gently tuck any remaining edges of the vinyl around the door seams or under the window moldings for a seamless finish. Apply a small amount of heat if needed to help the vinyl adhere securely.

Reinstall any trim pieces or moldings that were removed during the installation. Double-check the edges and seams to ensure everything is secure and smooth. Give the entire vinyl-wrapped pillar a gentle pass with a heat gun to activate the adhesive fully. Additionally, heating the film after application helps prevent it from stretching back and ensures a smooth, secure fit. Again, be cautious not to overheat the vinyl.