Use for surfaces heavily contaminated with dirt, dust and mud. For detergent, PDAA recommends using Joy brand (mix one teaspoon per quart of water).
Do not use: Any detergents that contain hand cream, lotion or fragrance. The use of an inappropriate detergent may result in application problems and may interfere with the bond of the adhesive.
Other options are using a high-pressure washer, having the client provide a reasonably clean vehicle to start with or taking it to a car wash yourself. Regardless of who washes the vehicle (if it is really dirty), you’re better off if it has plenty of time to dry. Water and moisture take a long time to evaporate in and around trim pieces, windows, handles, etc. If at all possible, have it washed one day and let it dry overnight before proceeding to the next cleaning steps and installing the graphics.
This Tech Tip is pulled from PDAA’s Vinyl Installation Proficiency Guide, a member perk.