When someone gets a tattoo they regret (like their ex’s name), that person will get the tattoo removed. Once their tattoo is gone, that area of skin is clean and uncovered. This is similar to de-identifying your vehicle.
Although Big Valley Auto Auction can’t remove the tattoo of your ex’s name from your body, we can remove stickers and wraps on your vehicle. We’ve been de-identifying vehicles since 2008, and we want to show you how you can do it yourself.
In this article, you’re going to learn what de-identification is, the supplies needed, how you can de-identify your vehicle yourself, the benefits that come with de-identifying your vehicle, and what to avoid when doing this service on your own.
After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to know how to de-identify your vehicle yourself.
What is De-Identification?
De-Identification, also known as “De-ID”, is the process of removing vinyl stickers, wraps, and any type of identifying marks from a vehicle. (Ex: Company logos)
What Supplies Do I Need to De-Identify My Vehicle?
There are 4 tools you’ll need to De-ID your vehicle.
- Scraper
- Steamer
- Solvent
- Paint (in some cases)
How Do I De-Identify My Vehicle?
There are 3 steps to De-ID your vehicle yourself.
Step 1: Use steam on the covered area.
Step 2: Remove identifying marks with a scraper.
Step 3: Use solvent to remove sticker resin.
An optional 4th step can be to apply paint over the clean area.
What Are the Benefits of a De-Identification?
There are 2 major benefits that come with De-Identifying your vehicle:
Clean Look
Your vehicle will look cleaner without stickers. The underneath of a vehicle that was wrapped would look clean.
Increased Sales Potential
Removing a vehicle's stickers or wrappings could increase the vehicle's chance of selling more than if it were covered.
What Should I Avoid Doing When De-Identifying My Vehicle?
There are 3 mistakes you should avoid when de-identifying your vehicle on your own.
Rushing Through the Process
In the words of our De-Identification specialist, Chris, “It takes time, finesse, patience. I can’t stress that enough.” Hurrying can lead to scratching. This process is not best for a “rushy” type of person.
Using the Wrong Type of Blade
Avoid using metal blades. Metal blades scratch. Use plastic razor blades. (Especially if you’re a beginner)
Getting Impatient
You’re more than likely going to be doing this process on your own. You’ll need to be patient and comfortable working alone.
Do I Know How to De-Identify My Vehicle?
De-Identifying your vehicle can be a lot of hard work, but it could give your vehicle a clean look and potentially raise its resale value. Knowing what supplies you need, and the steps needed to take, can help make De-Identifying your vehicle yourself a little easier.
Whether you’re a car dealer preparing to sell a vehicle that has stickers, or you’re just a car owner who wants to clear their vehicle’s exterior, you can use this article as a step-by-step guide to De-ID your vehicle yourself.
If you’d prefer an auto auction to De-ID your vehicle, Big Valley Auto Auction offers registered dealers a De-Identification service, starting at $150.00. You can click the button below to speak with our dealer registration specialist to get you registered.
Not ready to talk? That’s okay! First, learn more about what it’s like to buy and sell at Big Valley Auto Auction by clicking the image below:
