How Much Does It Cost to Wrap a Tesla Model 3?

Have you ever wondered how much it costs to wrap a Tesla Model 3? For many, owning a Tesla is a statement of style, innovation, and sustainability. But customizing the look of your Tesla takes that experience to the next level. Wrapping your Tesla is a popular choice for those who want to change their car’s appearance without committing to a permanent paint job.

Compared to repainting, wrapping is flexible, offering options like matte finishes, chrome looks, and even glossy textures that make heads turn. It's no wonder so many Tesla enthusiasts choose wraps to give their Model 3 a fresh, personalized look. But what does that customization actually cost? Let’s break it down.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Wrapping a Tesla Model 3

When considering how much it costs to wrap a Tesla Model 3, several factors come into play. Your choice of wrap material, the quality and brand, and whether you opt for a full or partial wrap will all impact the final cost.

Type of Wrap Material

The type of material you choose for your wrap can significantly affect the cost. Here's a quick rundown of the most popular options:

• Vinyl: One of the most common materials, vinyl wrap is known for its flexibility and wide range of colors and finishes, from matte to gloss. It's generally more affordable than other types.
• Chrome: Highly reflective and flashy, chrome wraps are on the pricier side and require more care during application.
• Matte: A popular choice for those wanting a sleek look without the shine. Matte wraps often fall in a moderate price range.
• Gloss: Glossy wraps enhance the vehicle’s shine and are comparable to vinyl wraps in terms of cost.

Quality and Brand of the Wrap

Quality and brand are crucial when it comes to the longevity and appearance of your wrap. Here are some of the top paint protection film (PPF) brands that stand out in the market, along with our very own premium product, Defense+™:

XPEL

• Link: XPEL PPF
• Description: XPEL's Ultimate Plus series is known for its self-healing properties that repair minor scratches and swirls when exposed to heat. They offer high clarity, stain resistance, and come with a robust 10-year warranty.

3M

• Link: 3M PPF
• Description: 3M's Scotchgard Pro Series boasts durability and clarity, including self-healing technology. These films provide excellent protection while maintaining the appearance of your car's paint and come with a comprehensive warranty.

SunTek

• Link: SunTek PPF
• Description: Praised for its hydrophobic properties, SunTek PPF is easy to clean and maintain. It offers good durability and resistance to yellowing, making it a favorite among professional installers.

LLumar

• Link: LLumar PPF
• Description: LLumar’s Platinum PPF offers strong protection against scratches and stains. It features self-healing technology and a comprehensive warranty for lasting performance.

Avery Dennison

• Link: Avery Dennison PPF
• Description: Their Supreme Defense PPF offers excellent durability and clarity, with protection against scratches, stains, and UV rays. Self-healing technology helps maintain the original look of your vehicle’s paint.

Defense+™ by Drive Protected

• Link: Defense+™ PPF
• Description: Our own brand of film, Defense+, is developed in collaboration with a leading Paint Protection Film manufacturer. This 8-mil thick film features self-healing capabilities, hydrophobic properties, and a high gloss finish. With a 10-year warranty, Defense+ will ensure your vehicle remains protected and looking its best.

Defense+ PPF distinguishes itself with several features:

• Thickness: 8 mils.
• Self-Healing: Light scratches disappear with heat from the sun, a hair dryer, or hot water.
• Hydrophobic Properties: Makes it easier to clean, akin to a ceramic coating (though not a replacement for one).
• Ceramic Coating Compatibility: Suitable for application over the film.
• Warranty: 10 years against yellowing.

Full Wrap vs. Partial Wrap

The scope of the wrap significantly affects the cost. A full wrap covers the entire vehicle, whereas a partial wrap might only cover the roof, mirrors, or specific accents. Naturally, a full wrap will cost more than a partial wrap, but the level of protection and customization that a full wrap provides is unparalleled.

DIY Wrap vs. Professional Wrap: What's the Difference?

Deciding between a DIY wrap and a professional wrap for your Tesla Model 3 is crucial. Both options have their benefits and risks, and your final choice will depend on various factors, including budget, time, and confidence in your skills.

Benefits and Risks of DIY Wrapping

Benefits

• Cost-Effective: A primary advantage of DIY wrapping is the cost savings. DIY kits, like those offered by Drive Protected, are generally more affordable than professional installations.
• Customization: You have complete control over the customization process, allowing you to experiment with designs and finishes.
• Satisfaction: There's a sense of achievement and personal satisfaction that comes from completing the job yourself.

Risks

• Skill Level: DIY wrapping requires a steady hand and a bit of practice. If you're not confident in your ability to achieve a smooth, bubble-free application, you might end up with a subpar result.
• Time-Consuming: The process can be time-consuming, especially if you're doing it for the first time. Mistakes can also add to the overall time required.

Why DIY Kits by Drive Protected is a Great Way to Go

Opting for a Drive Protected DIY Kit is an excellent choice for several reasons:

• High-Quality Material: Our Defense+™ Paint Protection Film is designed with high standards, ensuring your Tesla Model 3 gets the best protection against scratches, road debris, and other environmental contaminants.
• Ease of Application: Our kits come with detailed instructions to make the wrapping process straightforward and manageable. It's more than doable to apply the wrap yourself, even if you're not a professional.
• Cost Savings: The cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 using our DIY kit is significantly lower than the cost of professional installation, helping you save money while still achieving a high-quality finish.

And for those who might find the process a bit daunting, we offer a free resource to make your DIY project even easier. Our YouTube channel is packed with instructional videos for a variety of cars, Tesla included. Here, we explain how to apply the film step-by-step, ensuring you can achieve professional-quality results from the comfort of your own garage.

When Professional Installation Might Be Worth the Extra Cost

For some Tesla owners, the additional cost of professional installation is worth it. Here are a few scenarios where this might be the case:

• Lack of Time: If your schedule is packed and you can’t dedicate several hours to wrapping your car, professional installation could save you a lot of time.
• Complex Designs: If you're looking for intricate designs or specialized finishes, a professional might be better equipped to achieve the perfect look.
• Skill and Confidence: Not everyone feels comfortable or confident in their DIY skills, especially when it comes to something as visible as a car wrap. A professional wrap ensures a polished, flawless finish.

Comparing Costs

To give you a clearer picture, let's compare the costs involved:

As you can see, the cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 varies significantly based on whether you choose a DIY approach or professional installation. Each option has its merits, and your decision should align with your specific needs and circumstances.

Average Cost to Wrap a Tesla Model 3

Understanding the average cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 is essential whether you opt for a professional installation or a DIY kit. Let's break down the costs for different wrap options, including both professional services and our premium DIY kits from Drive Protected.

Breakdown of Average Costs for Different Wrap Options

The cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 can vary widely based on several factors such as the type of wrap, the quality of materials, and whether you choose a full or partial wrap. Here’s a comprehensive table to give you an idea of the average costs associated with various wrap options:

*Examples of Drive Protected's DIY kits for a Tesla Model 3:

Tesla Model 3 Matte Finish Full Defense+™ Paint Protection Wrap

• Cost: $2,499.00 USD
• Package Contents: Rear fenders, mirrors, full doors, full hood, full fenders, headlights, fog lights, front bumper, A-pillars, rear hatch.
• Features: Matte film, 8 mils thick, self-healing, hydrophobic top coat, UV protection, 10-year warranty.
• Note: Matte wraps take 1-2 weeks to produce.

Tesla Model 3 Full Defense+™ Paint Protection Film Wrap

• Cost: $2,249.00 USD
• Package Contents: Clear film, rear fenders, mirrors, full doors, full hood, full fenders, headlights, fog lights, front bumper, A-pillars, rear hatch.
• Features: Clear film, 8 mils thick, self-healing, hydrophobic top coat, UV protection, 10-year warranty.

Tesla Model 3 Full Front End Plus Defense+™ Paint Protection Film

• Cost: $769.00 USD
• Package Contents: Entire hood, full fenders, front bumper, A-pillars, headlights, fog lights, mirrors, PPF install kit.
• Features: Clear film, 8 mils thick, self-healing, hydrophobic top coat, UV protection, 10-year warranty.

Tesla Model 3 Full Front End Defense+™ Paint Protection Film

• Cost: $699.00 USD
• Package Contents: Entire hood, full fenders, front bumper, headlights, fog lights, mirrors, PPF install kit.
• Features: Clear film, 8 mils thick, self-healing, hydrophobic top coat, UV protection, 10-year warranty.

Tesla Model 3 Partial Front End Defense+™ Paint Protection Film

• Cost: $529.00 USD
• Package Contents: Partial hood, partial fenders, full front bumper, headlights, fog lights, mirrors, PPF install kit.
• Features: Clear film, 8 mils thick, self-healing, hydrophobic top coat, UV protection, 10-year warranty.

Cost Examples

Professional Installation

• Sparkle Car Wrap (Full Wrap – Vinyl): $3,500 - $4,500
• Matte Tesla Wrap (Full Wrap – Matte Vinyl): Starting at $4,000
• Partial Wrap (Roof and Mirrors): $750 - $1,000

DIY KITs Cost by Drive Protected

• Full Defense+™ Paint Protection Wrap (Clear/Matte): $2,249 - $2,499
• Full Front End Plus Defense+™ PPF: $769
• Partial Front End Defense+™ PPF: $529

As illustrated, the cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 can vary greatly depending on your choice of wrap material and installation method. Our Drive Protected DIY kits provide a cost-effective alternative to professional installation without compromising on quality or protection.

Conclusion

Wrapping your Tesla Model 3 is a fantastic way to not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also to provide a robust layer of protection against everyday wear and tear. The cost to wrap a Tesla Model 3 can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of wrap, quality of materials, and whether you opt for a full or partial wrap. Additionally, choosing between a DIY approach or professional installation can further influence the final cost.

Key Takeaways:

• Material and Quality: The type of wrap you choose—vinyl, matte, gloss, or clear PPF—will majorly affect both the cost and the vehicle's appearance. High-quality brands such as XPEL, 3M, SunTek, LLumar, Avery Dennison, and our own Defense+™ provide excellent options for ensuring long-lasting protection and superior finish.
• DIY vs. Professional: While DIY wrapping using kits like those from Drive Protected offers significant cost savings and the satisfaction of personal accomplishment, professional installation ensures a flawless and polished finish with less effort on your part.
• Budget Considerations: Our Drive Protected DIY kits are a cost-effective option ranging from $529 for partial wraps to $2,499 for full wraps, offering top-tier protection and ease of application. Compared to professional installation, which can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, DIY kits offer substantial savings without compromising quality.

Ultimately, the right wrap for your Tesla Model 3 depends on your personal preferences, budget, and confidence in your installation abilities. Whether you choose a professional service or DIY project using our Defense+™ Paint Protection Film, you can rest assured that your Tesla will be well-protected and look stunning on the road.