Hey there’s lots of reasons to install a rear window graphic on your car or truck. Most of the time people want to show their spirit by putting their favorite sports team logo on their rear window. Others may want to be patriotic and show an American flag graphic, an eagle, or maybe a Marine Corp logo.

Rear window graphics are usually digitally printed images on perforated vinyl film. What’s perforated vinyl? Think of it like a screen material with thousands of tiny holes cut out of a solid sheet of automotive grade vinyl film. You can see through this material just like you can a window or door screen.

But, because one side of the material is digitally printed, it makes it hard to see through in that direction. So when you install the rear window graphic it will be hard to see into the vehicle, but easy to see out of the vehicle.

Here are some steps you can take in order to install your rear window graphic properly:

You will need a plastic squeegee, rubbing alcohol, razor blades and an exacto knife (or similar)

First, Make sure to clean the window with plenty of rubbing alcohol. Also, use a razor blade (at your own risk) to scrape off any surface bumps or anything that is stuck top the window what will interfere with your new graphic.

Next, position the widow graphic to your liking over the window and hold down with masking tape if necessary.

Next, peel back the liner from one half of the graphic and start squeegeeing it down from the center out. Use overlapping strokes and firm pressure to ensure a good bond. Repeat for the other half of the graphic.

Next, go over the entire graphic again using the squeegee and pressing well into all edges of the window trim.

Trim the graphic along the edges of the window molding using a sharp knife or razor. Trim all the way around and peel away the excess vinyl.

Again, re-squeegee the edges of the vinyl outward towards the window molding to ensure good adhesion. Tuck any showing edges underneath the window molding or just trim them away.

Stand back and enjoy your new image! From the inside of the vehicle you will have a clear view… You can even add a truck graphic kit to the sides to complete a unique flag window graphics package!

About the Author

Mike Briglia is the owner of Custom Auto Trim, an auto accessories company based out of San Diego CA. Find more information on rear window graphics at http://www.customautotrim.com/

So now that you’ve gotten the kids back to school, and your normal, comfortable routine is starting to resume, isn’t it about time to sit back and think about what’s ahead? For instance, did you know that according to the most recent census data available, 35% of Americans spend an hour or more in their commute to and from work each day. That’s 90+ hours between now and the end of the year alone. Now, if you enjoy your car and are happy with it, that’s not so terrible, right? But man, if you’re not happy with your car that’s an awful lot of time to be stuck in it. Not to mention the fact that, like it or not, you’re depending on your car to get you there safely and in style. This, as you may have guessed, is where we come in. Take a look at our Blog section to find just the right something to make those days in traffic a tiny bit brighter. And don’t forget to look below for this month’s coupon, because while we can’t alleviate your commute, we can make getting there a little more fun.

TIP SHACK

This month, we got the question:

I have pinstriping on my car and am afraid I will mess it up when I wax the car. Any suggestions on how to do this safely?

Good question. Like the paint on your car, your pinstriping and graphics need protection from the sun and other elements too. But you need to be a bit careful. The trouble occurs when you apply too much wax around the edges of the graphic or pinstripe. if you don’t properly remove all of the wax from the vehicle, the wax that still remains around the edges of your stripe will dry chalky white and will make your stripe or graphic appear old and worn. Removing this wax buildup is entirely possible, but can be time consuming. So here’s what you do when waxing: Using a very damp sponge or soft cloth, pour on a small amount of wax. Make sure you work the wax in to whatever you are using. Then apply your wax over your stripe or graphic, trying to go in the same direction as the stripe does. This way you don’t build up too much wax in the edges. If your stripe goes from left to right, apply your wax from left to right. The key here is A Very Light Coat!! A thin coat will give you great protection. To remove the wax, take a very soft cloth and wipe off in the same direction as you applied it in. pay extra attention to the edges of your stripe, and do your best to remove any wax that you see. If later you do experience wax buildup or a chalky appearance at the edges, take a toothbrush (not yours, get someone else’s) and GENTLY agitate the chalky wax and then rub it off with a soft cloth. This may take you some time, but the toothbrush will do it. So to make it easy on yourself in the future, only use very thin coats of wax around your striping and graphics.

WEB NEWS

If you’ve peeked ahead to the contest below, you already know about the hot new products we’ve got to offer you this month on our website—Autoloc Lambo Door Hinge Kits. These are guaranteed to make your car a conversation piece, and will work with any make and model. And as complicated as they may look, they really are simple to install and come with easy to follow instructions so you’ll be up and running in no time.

While you’re there, take a look at our newly available Autoloc Keyless Entry Systems. From a basic top quality six function remote, to an extraordinary eighteen function remote that allows you to control your stereo, sunroof, windows and more. This baby does everything but drive the car for you. And we’ve got five different models available, so undoubtedly one of them will be just what you’ve been looking for.

The other big news we have to share with you is that AUTOMEGA® is now an Authorized Dealer for AEROGEAR® Products. From bumper to bumper and fender to wing, we’ve got you covered and this month they’re all deeply discounted, as well.

Now that you’ve read the tip of the month and know what a breeze it is to take care of, maybe it’s time you update your car’s look with some easy to apply pinstriping. We’ve got the width you want, all the way up to a full two inches thick, and it’s all sold in 150 foot rolls, so you’re sure to have enough for the look you want and then some. Pick yours out from our twelve available colors.

WRAPPING IT UP

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Just call our toll free support line at 1-800-232-6922. We’re standing by to help!

Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggestions. Thanks for your time!

Take care, and happy driving