Overlay Install

HOW TO VINYL EMBLEM OVERLAY INSTALL

Our vinyl emblem overlays are designed to go over your car's stock logo emblem. They are NOT actual emblem replacements. We have designed our overlays to be user friendly and hassle free when installing. However, technique does play a big part as to how it turns out. Listed below are steps and tips on how to successfully apply the emblem overlay over your vehicle's OEM badge. A video guide is also attached below. 
 
Do not rush the installation process. TAKE YOUR TIME.

TOOLS

  • Soapy water/ Alcohol (cleaning)
  • Microfiber Towel (if cleaning with soapy water)
  • Wrapping Glove/Fingers(clean)
  • Heat gun/Hair dryer (a MUST in cold weather)

PREP

First thing and most importantly, you must prepare the surface by making sure it is clean of all debris, dust, dirt or grease. Please use the provided alcohol pad or soapy water. Be sure to clean in between the gap of the emblem and grille as dirt likes to accumulate here. Avoid using any waxy chemicals, as this can affect how well the overlay sticks to the surface. 

TIPS

  1. Ideal temperatures for installation is between 65°F - 74°F. If the weather is too cold, the overlay will be stiff and brittle. It will also cause the adhesive to freeze, and not stick to the surface. If the weather is too hot, the vinyl will become soft and extra sticky - making it highly difficult to work with. It is best to wait for a change in temperature if not within range, unless in a controlled environment. This rule applies to all vehicle vinyl, not just our overlays.
  2. Before installing, make sure the emblem is cool to the touch and away from the sun. Installing in direct sunlight will cause the vinyl to heat up quickly, causing the material to rapidly adhere to the surface. This makes the overall install difficult. 
  3. Make sure that the emblem is clean and dry. 
  4. A heat gun might be needed to help the vinyl shrink or activate adhesion, especially in cold weather.  
  5. Wet application is NOT recommended. The vinyl is equipped with air release channels. Liquids can get trapped in the gaps and if not dried properly, affects the tackiness and can lead to lifting. 

INSTALL (dry)

1. Remove the vinyl from the backing paper. If backing paper is stuck to vinyl, use tip of a knife to help separate the 2 materials. 
       
2. Hold it by the left and right side with firm pressure making sure to not stretch the material. Gently center the overlay as best you can without tacking down the vinyl (so it doesn't fully stick on, making it easier to lift for adjustments). Realign if needed.                               
3. Once placement is confirmed, start tacking down the vinyl starting from the center making your way out to the edges. Simply use your clean fingers and glide it over the material, making sure to overlap each pass. Do NOT run a hard surface such as a credit card or rigid squeegee over the emblem. This will cause unwanted tears and scratches. Finger or a wrapping glove are easier due to the curvature of the OEM badges.
upturn prints vinyl overlay install instructions
4. If vinyl does this, STOP what you are doing. The material is bunching together because it has no where to go, no outlet. Help guide the vinyl so it lays smoothly without risking creases. 
5. The edges shouldn't be fully adhered to the surface if following the center-out method. Lift the edge of the overlay to create space for the vinyl to go. Continue tacking down (see video for visual guide). Sometimes, heat may be needed to help the vinyl shrink, especially in cold weather and curved edges.

6. If there is any excess vinyl hanging over the stock emblem, simply tuck it into the edge of the car's emblem. Fold the backing paper in half and use that to tuck. No trimming is required. Be sure this area is clean of all dirt, otherwise, the vinyl will not stick.
Tuck excess vinyl into the gaps
7. Post heat the material with a heat gun or hair dryer. Post heating activates the adhesive, enhancing its bonding properties. Ensures vinyl is secure onto the surface. Vinyl may lift if not heated after application. Highly recommend, especially in cold areas.

8. All done!
Note: Depending on your environment, a heat gun will be needed for the install. If conditions are not ideal, it is recommended to wait until the weather warms up or cools off.

Common Questions

1. This is just a "sticker"?
Yes, the item being sold are vinyl overlays and are meant to be wrapped over your emblem. They are NOT actual replacements of your OEM badge.
2. How does this work with the sensor?
The vinyl material we use is high-grade vehicle wrap that is has a thickness of 3.4 - 4.4 mil. Thus, the material is thin enough to allow the radio waves to transmit and reflect signals back to the sensor (present in certain vehicles) located behind the emblem.
3. How do I get rid of air bubbles?
Each vinyl overlay is equipped with an air release channel backing. This allows air to flow through the vinyl, eliminating any type of bubbling. Simply press on any air pockets with your finger, and it will disappear. If still present, the "bubbles" are most likely specs of dust or debris that got caught in the vinyl.
4. Can I do wet installation method?
The material we use is air-release vinyl which is equipped with micro-tunnels. If not properly dried, water can get trapped which will lead to adhesion failure. Thus, we do not recommend using the wet installation method.
5. Why is the vinyl not sticking?
It is important to avoid any chemicals when cleaning the OEM emblem. Chemicals may leave a waxy residue, which prevents proper adhesion. We recommend using the alcohol pad that is included in the packaging to remove all contaminates. Also, weather plays a big role in how the vinyl reacts. If too cold, the adhesive properties will not activate, and not stick. The ideal temperature for installation is 65°F - 74°F.
6. Do I need to remove the OEM emblem?
No removal is needed as all overlays are precisely cut to fit over the OEM emblem. Note, we purposely oversize the vinyl a tiny bit from the OEM size. This allows extra room for error when it comes to alignment, and ensures the surface is 100% covered. Any excess material can be tucked into the edges.
7. I'm inexperienced with vinyl. What can I do?
Technique plays a big role in the outcome. If you do not want to attempt and need assistance with installation, we recommend going to a local professional (vehicle wrap or tint shop).
8. What to do if backing paper is stuck to vinyl?
On rare occasions, the backing paper may be stuck to the adhesive portion of the vinyl overlay when lifting. Simply try peeling the vinyl off from the other side. Or, take the tip of a knife and place it in between the 2 materials to help separate the backing paper from the vinyl.
9. Can I PPF over the overlay?
No, we highly do NOT recommend pairing our overlays with any other material or existing vinyl. This can lead to unwanted issues such as adhesive failure.
10. What happens if my sensor stops working?
Be sure that the OEM emblem (& overlay) is clean and not covered with snow, ice, mud, dirt or water droplets. These variables may prevent the sensors from functioning properly - even without a vinyl overlay. We recommend cleaning the emblem and see if the issue persist. Although the overlays never caused such issues, please reach out to us if it does.
11. Why does it not fit my vehicle?
Not all vehicles are made the same. Thus, each overlay is cut and sized to fit over specific vehicles. Please be sure to double check the listing and confirm that it matches your vehicle description before purchase.

Care

After you have successfully installed your emblem overlay, it is best to keep it clean as often as possible. Gently wash and rinse the area of all residue/soap. Finish off by drying the surface.

Disclaimer

By purchasing and installing an overlay, buyers are aware of a front sensor located behind the front emblem (if present). We've done thorough research and testing to determine which material is compatible with the sensors, and have not encountered any issues nor received any complaints. Although there have no been issues with any sensors, at all times, please drive carefully. Buyers are deemed responsible for the purchase of the overlays and any issues that may occur.