FAQ
DipYourCar
First things first - what are these products designed for?
DYC's peelable automotive coatings are designed to give the average person an option to change the color of their car, wheels, emblems, trim and more all by themselves with no previous experience.
What surfaces are these products designed to be sprayed on?
Our coatings are formulated to be sprayed over good condition OEM surfaces. Many surfaces such as aged paint, oxidized paint, primer, bondo, repainted surfaces, repaired surfaces, aftermarket wheels, aftermarket emblems, fiber glass, plastics, etc are successfully dipped and peeled quite often; however all of our rigorous testing and development is aimed towards usage over good condition OEM surfaces. Using these products over surfaces other than good condition OEM will always bring more variables into the equation. Best practice will always be to test a small area before going full scale.
Is this really something I can do myself?
Of course! Thousands of Do-It-Yourself customers use our products to change the color of their cars every month. It doesn't matter what your experience or skill set is - as long as you follow instructions and use our tutorial videos as your guide, these products are very user friendly. Remember, these products are peelable, so worst case scenario if you make a mistake, you can peel it off and try again! Give it a go!
How difficult is it to Dip your car or wheels?
DYC products are designed specifically for Do-It-Yourself customers! Dippers spray their emblems, wheels, and vehicles on a daily basis with limited to no previous experience. Although the product is designed to be user friendly, there will always be an element of human error involved during the process. Of course the users' prep process, application technique, and other variables will be a factor in the final result.
How long do these coatings last?
When properly applied, DYC products can easily last 5+ years or longer without having to be retouched. It is a very durable and resilient product. The spray technique when applying as well as the amount of coats applied will heavily determine the longevity of the product. Making the sure product is properly cleaned and maintained also plays a big role. DYC makes a full line of cleaning and maintenance products specifically designed for Dip to keep your dipped car or wheels looking its best. Certain colors (typically bright Yellows, Oranges, Greens, Pinks and Fluorescents) can show signs of fading after prolonged UV exposure. Keep this in mind when picking a color and setting expectations for longevity.
Will it hold up to the elements (sun, winter)?
DYC coatings are extremely resistant to the elements, including sun exposure, winter ice, cold, salt etc. A lot of customers actually dip their wheels and cars specifically to protect the original surfaces from the winter season. Please keep in mind however that certain products like Fluorescent colors, Blaze color and some bright pearls are subject to fading after prolonged UV exposure. We highly recommend Dip Coat™ Protective Spray to reduce the chance of marring and to increase UV protection.
Will it hold up to heat and racing?
DYC coatings are heat resistant up to 200° F. Dipped wheels have an excellent history of holding up to the heat and abuse from racing or rally events.
How does these coatings hold up to gasoline?
DYC coatings are primarily solvent based, and do not hold up to exposure to gasoline. Please be careful when filling your tank or working with gasoline around a dipped surface. However - DipArmor™ Advanced TopCoat is now available which is gasoline resistant. If you want a vehicle surface that is resistant to gasoline and other chemicals, be sure to utilize DipArmor™.
Can I dip my brand new or newly painted car?
When considering dipping new or newly repainted cars, DYC recommends testing your paint before any peelable coating application. Sometimes brand new cars go straight from the factory to the dealership - and the paint is not fully cured. Best practice to be safe would be to wait 6 months after a new car's manufacturing date before you apply any removable/peelable coatings. If you wish to dip earlier, apply the product to a small inconspicuous area and remove the dip after it's dried ensure the new paint is cured enough to withstand the application and removal process. Testing is always suggested before dipping a repainted or repaired car.
Does it really peel off?
Yes, our coatings really do peel off. We suggest a minimum of 6+ wet coats (depending on the product and color), not only for durability, but to make sure it peels off in large pieces when you are ready for removal. The thickness and density of the film builds as each proper coat is applied; so making sure the correct number of coats and that those coats are appleid properly is critical to the peeling and removal experience.
How many coats should I put on?
DYC always suggests a minimum of 6+ wet coats, but as everyone sprays coats differently, the most important factor is the total amount of product used. Each Wheel Kit and Car Kit on DipYourCar.com will already include the correct amount of product needed for your project. All you have to do is use up all the material we include in your kit! If you're confused about how much product you need for your project, please contact DYC Customer Service. Winter wheels, etc. may benefit from an extra couple coats for good measure.
How should I prep my wheels or car before dipping?
DYC always suggests using PreDip Spray and MicroFiber Towels to prep the wheels or car before dipping. This will eliminate grease, oil, dirt, debris or wax that may hinder the dip's ability to bond. Allow the surface to dry completely, any moisture (even if it is not visible, behind body panels or trim) could negatively affect the bonding process and lead to bubbling. A clean and dry surface is essential. When dipping Chrome surfaces, it always helps to use isopropyl alcohol after PreDip spray simply due to the Chrome being extra slick.
Should I wash my car before I dip?
You always want to wash your car using the PreWash concentrate that comes in your car kit before you begin masking and spraying. It's critical that you let the car dry 24 hours before you spray your first coat. Moisture can hide in the cracks and seams of panels for a lot long that you may think, and it's absolutely necessary for the car to be completely dry or the trapped moisture can cause issues with the dip's adhesion to the surface.
Should I wash my wheels before I dip?
Traditionally we do not suggest you wash your wheels before you dip them. Normally a good cleaning with PreDip spray is enough to completely clean and prep the wheel surfaces before you spray. Washing your wheels is going to introduce a lot of moisture which will can cause lifting and bubbling in the dip if the wheels are not properly dried. If you wish to wash your wheels, you must allow them to dry a full 24 hours before you begin the prepping and spraying process. Again it is critical that there is zero trapped moisture before you dip.
Should I mask my tires or spray Dip directly onto them?
Each DYC Wheel Kit includes a product called Dip Release™. Apply a small amount of Dip Release™ to a dry microfiber towel. Spread the product evenly across the sidewall of each tire, making sure to work the liquid into any tread, design or wording on the tire. Avoid getting Dip Release™ on the edge or any part of the wheel. If contact is made, clean the product from the wheel completely before Dipping.
Can I Apply Tire Shine After Spraying my Wheels?
DYC always suggests avoiding any type of Tire Shine after dipping as it can harm the dip. Tire Shine has been shown to eat away at the dipped area, causing it to peel.
Can Dip be applied to Chrome?
Spraying our coatings over chrome will depend on the actual chrome surface itself. There are differences between genuine chrome and factory "chrome" finishes. For example HyperDip may adhere and react perfectly normal over one chrome surface, but may have issues over another. Chrome emblems, badges and trim are traditionally fine - but a certain set of chrome wheels for example may cause adhesion issues. Due to the differences between the many "chrome" surfaces, it's difficult to predict the result for each application. Although it works fine most of the time, testing may be required first to confirm our coatings are a suitable product for your personal application. When dipping Chrome surfaces, it always helps to use isopropyl alcohol after PreDip spray simply due to the Chrome being extra slick.
Will DYC Coatings work exactly the same on every car, every surface?
Although our coatings work and behaves predictably for most users, there are certainly variables that can alter the outcome of either the application or removal process. The age of the car/wheels, the condition of the clear coat, if you have already done a DIY paint job on the surface, whether the car was ever repainted or repaired etc. are all possible factors that could effect the way the our peelable coating adheres, peels, or covers. Having a vehicle or wheel surface damaged by the application or removal of dip is extremely rare - but possible due to the variables listed above. Although most users will have a predictable and trouble free experience with dip, we suggest you do a small test spot on the surfaces you will be dipping before you begin your project.
Could these coatings damage my clear coat?
DipYourCar.com and our customers have been using our peelable paints on cars for over 9 years, and it is extremely rare to see dip cause damage to OEM surfaces. Most cars are dipped, peeled and redipped multiple times without ever having a single issue. However every car, and every situation is unique. Even with the great track record of these products, we still recommend dipping a small test spot on your car before dipping the entire vehicle. Pay special attention to a vehicle that has damaged clear coat, compromised/oxidized clear coat, was repainted, repaired or refinished. Although seeing damage when applying or removing out coatings is extremely rare, almost every time it occurs it occurs over a vehicle that did not have good condition OEM clear. When vehicles are repainted, every paint shop will use different types and amounts of clear coat - and we can't possibly guarantee the exact same result on every unique paint job.
Could these coatings stain my vehicle?
It's extremely rare to hear of any damage to a vehicle after a peelable coating has been properly applied or removed. However, one thing we see from time to time is certain OEM colors - specifically whites and silvers - are susceptible to pigment transfer. Pigment transfer is a temporary issue where the pigment in the coating bleeds into the OEM clear. Again this is rare, but something to keep in mind if you own a white vehicle. The good news is, the couple times a year we see this issue - it fades completely away after prolonged exposure to the sun. It's unlikely, but possible especially if base coat directions are not followed.
Can I dip my car if it was previously ceramic coated or sealed?
One of the main purposes of a Ceramic Coatings is to repel contaminants and stop things from sticking or clinging to the surface of your vehicle. This does a great job preventing the car from getting stained or dirty, however can cause adhesion issues when something like a peelable coating or vinyl tries to adhere. Traditionally ceramic coatings are going to cause issues when you try to dip over them, so it's important to know if your vehicle or wheels were coated or sealed by any products before you try to spray them.
Can I wash the dipped areas of my car?
Of course! DYC offers a full range of cleaning and maintenance products that are specifically designed for dipped surfaces. These products range from soaps, washes, detail sprays, sealers and even bug/stain removers. Each are dip-safe and long term proven to work. Click here to view the DYC Detailing Suite product line: CAR WASHING AND AFTERCARE COLLECTION. Give your dipped surface a full 48 hours to dry before you wash it with DYC materials. Also it's best to avoid automatic/drive in car washes. Each automatic car wash uses different methods to clean, and not all are dip-safe. Hand washing is always recommended.
How can I protect my peelable paint and ensure it stays in the best condition?
We developed the Dip Coat™ Protective Spray for exactly this reason; to protect your Dip and keep it looking great. Dip Coat™ will give your Dip an improved, slick feel that will help to resist marring, scratches, staining, and it will be easier to clean. Dip Coat™ also protects against damaging UV rays.
Can I spray these coatings over head lights and tail lights?
In our experience, we have found that DYC's coatings peel easily off of most lights. However, we have found a few types of head lights or tail lights do not respond well with the solvents in our products. Our suggestion, to be safe, is to always mask off head lights and tail lights to ensure there is no negative reaction.
How far away should I spray each coating?
The usual recommended spray distance is between 4-5 inches away for aerosol cans and about 6-8 inches when using our DipSprayer System™. Better yet we have a ton of Video Guides that walk you through the process which can be found here www.DYCUniversity.com
Will HyperDip protect my wheels from winter salt/snow?
HyperDip is extremely resistant to the elements, including winter ice, cold, salt etc. A lot of customers actually dip their wheels and cars specifically to protect the original surfaces from the winter season.
Can Plasti Dip® Gallons be sprayed out of a spray gun?
Of course! We have developed the DYC DipSprayer specifically for spraying Plasti Dip. However, if you wish to use an HVLP/RP compressor fed gun, please use the DYC ProLine coatings, as the Plasti Dip gallons are too thick to flow through those guns.
How many gallons would I need to dip a whole car?
We make this part easy! Simply find a DYC Car Kit in whatever color you like, and use the Size Guide on the product page to select the correct size kit. The kit will then include everything you need to get the job done right. If you have any specfic questions, we suggest contacting one of our technicians at (855) 847-5825.
How can I get the best results with DYC Aerosols?
When using aerosol cans, make sure to shake well before use. The cans should not be stored below room temperature before application. In any climate, warming your cans in warm water prior to application dramatically helps achieve a smoother finish. Hold the cans upright and do not point lower than a 45% angle to the ground to avoid drips and splatter.
Do I need to use base coats?
We always recommend Avalanche Grey base coats for white and light colored vehicles (unless you're Dipping the car White). Avalanche Grey can also improve the the coverage of Yellow, Red, and in general can help extreme color transitions (a darker paint to a light Dip or light paint to a dark Dip). If you have any questions about base coats, please contact one of our technicians at (855) 847-5825 or at CustomerService@dipyourcar.com.
Is it possible to achieve a High Gloss finish with DYC do it yourself coatings?
It is possible to achieve a glossy finish using our Glossy DipPearl Topcoat over Plasti Dip Spray. However the gloss finish will not match what you find with OEM or factory clear coats. We feel that Do It Yourself products really perform best with Satin or Matte finishes.
Should I use a respirator when spraying DYC products?
Like with all spray-paint style products available to consumers, DYC suggests you always wear proper respiratory protection when using any of our aerosol and gallon products. DYC traditionally sells respirators that are rated for our materials, however due to high demand they are not always in stock. Spraying in an area that provides adequate ventilation and fresh moving air is important. Please make sure you protect yourself with the proper personal protective equipment and ensure your spray area is suitable before spraying aerosols or gallons.
HyperDip
What is the difference between HyperDip™ and traditional Plasti Dip
HyperDip™ is the latest technology in peelable aerosol paints. HyperDip™ is still peelable like Plasti Dip, however improved in every way. HyperDip™ is perfect for your Wheels, Trim, Emblems, Mirrors or any small surface. You will notice the benefits of the advanced HyperDip™ technology immediately: a smoother, flatter, slicker finish, a stronger, stretchier coating, easier to wet out and spray like a pro & enhanced finishes and sheen right out of the can.
Are HyperDip™ products compatible with traditional Plasti Dip?
No, HyperDip™ is not compatible with traditional Plasti Dip or any other non-HyperDip coatings, so please do not combine or stack with any other products.
Can you use the Glossifier™ Aerosol with HyperDip™?
No, HyperDip™ is not compatible with traditional Plasti Dip or any other non-HyperDip coatings, so please do not combine or stack with any other products.
Can I spray HyperDip™ over existing HyperDip™?
HyperDip™ can be applied over existing HyperDip™ if the existing product is in great condition. No tears, no texture, no stains. How to apply HyperDip over previously applied HyperDip™: 1. Wash the surface with soap and water, allow the surface to dry for 24 hour. 2. Wipe the surface thoroughly with PreDip Spray, then wipe the surface thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol 3. Once all of those steps are completed, you can lay 2 wet coats of HyperDip™ on top and should have great results.
Can you use the Dip Coat™ Protective Spray with HyperDip™?
Yes! The Dip Coat™ Protective Spray is highly recommend to use over top of the HyperDip™ to help protect the surface.
Can you use the Brake Dust Professional™ Spray with HyperDip™?
Yes! We highly recommend using the Brake Dust Professional™ to clean your wheels.
What are the differences between all of the blacks?
We made that part super easy! Check out this chart that compares our Black HyperDip™ colors.
What is the ideal climate to spray Gloss HyperDip™?
You always want to make sure your humidity level is 50% or below. Gloss HyperDip™ is extremely sensitive to humidity, as the humidity climbs, you will loose clarity & sheen.
How many coats do I need to lay down?
You would need to start with 4 tack coats and then apply 4-5 wet coats.
How long should I wait in-between coats?
You want to wait 5-7 minutes between each dust coat and 15-25 minutes (depending on ambient temperature) between each wet coat. .
What is the difference between a tack coat and a wet coat?
What are the Do's & Don'ts of HyperDip™?
You can see the Do's and Don'ts of HyperDip™ Here!
Shipping, Returns & Exchanges
DYC will utilize a combination of different shipping carriers depending on the weight, hazmat status and number of packages in your order. Carriers may range from USPS, UPS and FedEx.
Do you ship internationally?
DipYourCar can ship products internationally with some limitations. Please send all international inquiries to info@dycinternational.com
What is your return policy?
Our return policy is 30 days from the date of purchase
on anything that is unused and unopened. If you would like to process a return,
you can request one directly through your account. If you have any additional
questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!
Steps to request a return:
- Click "Account"
- Enter e-mail Address
- Login with the code emailed over to you.
- Navigate to your orders and request a return
from the order page.
Do you ship to California?
California customers may only purchase Plasti Dip® Spray 50 (Low-VOC) gallons. Plasti Dip® Spray 50 may not be sold in El Dorado, Colusa, & Glenn counties or the Bay Area (BAAQMD). Sales and usage of Plasti Dip Spray Gallons (Spray 50 Excluded), DipPearl TopCoat, Performance Series, Pro Line products and AutoFlex are not compliant with State Regulations in California. Therefore, these gallon sized Plasti Dip® products cannot be sold in or shipped to California. Rubber Dip, Rubber Dip Spray and Plasti Dip® Spray can be purchased within CA in sizes less than 1 gallon. Please be aware of this ruling and follow all guidelines.
Do you ship to Alaska, Hawaii and US Territories?
All hazardous items (excluding gallons) shipping outside of the lower 48 United States can only ship via USPS. Due to these regulations, orders placed with UPS shipping will automatically be switched to USPS. Shipping gallons requires hazmat air shipping. If you are looking to ship gallons, please contact our Customer Service Team and they would be happy to put a shipping quote together (855) 847-5825 or emailCustomerService@dipyourcar.com.
Get in touch
Have questions about your order, or a general enquiry?