Is your car under an old vinyl wrap you’re ready to get rid of? This 2020 Mercedes-AMG G63 came into our Austin shop wearing a green vinyl wrap installed by another shop. It left in XPEL Stealth, a satin-finish paint protection film that gives the G-Wagon a factory satin look while protecting the original black paint underneath.
This was not a simple re-wrap. It was a two-week project: removing the old vinyl, cleaning off the adhesive, correcting the paint, and then installing a full-body PPF. Here’s how we did it, step by step.
The Starting Point: A G63 in Green Vinyl
The owner wanted to go back to black, but with more personality than plain gloss. The goal was a full stealth look: satin black from bumper to bumper, with real protection for the paint instead of another layer of vinyl.
Why XPEL Stealth Instead of Another Wrap
A vinyl wrap changes the color, but it offers very little protection against rock chips, scratches, and the Texas sun. XPEL Stealth is a paint protection film with a satin finish. Applied over gloss black paint, it gives a matte-satin look that’s hard to tell apart from factory satin paint, and it adds:
- Protection against rock chips, scratches, and road debris
- Self-healing: light swirls and scratches disappear with heat
- A ceramic-infused top coat, so it doesn’t need a separate ceramic coating
- Easy maintenance, with no waxing or polishing needed
- A 10-year XPEL warranty
- Reversible: it can be removed later without damaging the paint
If you’re still deciding, read our guide on choosing between color PPF and vinyl wrap.
Our Process, Step by Step
1. Vinyl Wrap Removal
The biggest challenge on this G63 was the old wrap. The previous installer had used primer under the vinyl, so the film pulled off and left heavy adhesive residue across the body. We removed the vinyl slowly with steam and controlled heat to protect the factory paint.
2. Adhesive Removal: 18 Hours of Work
Removing the vinyl and adhesive alone took about 18 hours. Every panel had to be cleaned by hand until no residue was left, because any leftover adhesive would show under the PPF.
3. Paint Correction and Prep
With the paint exposed, we did a paint correction to remove swirls and defects before sealing the paint under film. Then came a full wash, decontamination, and surface prep. PPF locks in whatever is underneath it, so this step is what makes the final result look clean.
Learn more about our paint correction service in Austin.
4. Disassembly for Wrapped Edges
We removed parts like the fender flares so the film could wrap around the edges and stay hidden. Every removed part was also protected with PPF before going back on the vehicle, so no lines or exposed edges show and the finish looks like paint.
5. Full-Body XPEL Stealth Installation
We installed XPEL Stealth panel by panel across the full body: hood, fenders, doors, quarter panels, bumpers, roof, and trim. The G-Wagon’s flat panels and sharp edges look simple, but they take precision so every edge lines up perfectly.
6. Reassembly and Final Inspection
We reinstalled every part, checked every edge under shop lighting, and gave the G63 a final inspection before delivery.
The Result: A Satin Black AMG G63
The result is a G63 with a deep, even satin finish that looks factory. And the original paint is now protected underneath, which wasn’t the case with the old vinyl.
G63 Wrap Removal & XPEL Stealth FAQs
Can a vinyl wrap be removed without damaging the paint?
Yes, if it’s done right. Heat and steam soften the vinyl and adhesive so they can be removed without pulling up the paint. When a previous installer used primer, as on this G63, it takes much longer, but the paint can still be saved.
How long does a wrap removal and PPF project take?
It depends on the condition of the old wrap. This G63 took about two weeks: 18 hours of removal alone, plus paint correction and the full-body installation.
Will XPEL Stealth make my gloss paint matte?
Yes. XPEL Stealth turns any gloss paint into a satin finish, and if you remove the film, your original gloss paint is still there underneath.
Do I need a ceramic coating on top of XPEL Stealth?
No. XPEL Stealth has a ceramic-infused top coat that repels water and dirt, so it doesn’t need a separate coating.
What warranty does XPEL Stealth have?
XPEL Stealth is backed by a 10-year XPEL warranty.
Do you do door jambs?
On this G63 we didn’t do door jambs, but we can include them for a more complete look. Ask us when you request your quote.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the vehicle, the condition of the paint, and whether there’s an old wrap to remove. Contact us for a free quote, or read about how much paint protection film costs.
Ready to Protect Your G-Wagon?
Whether you want to remove an old wrap, switch to a satin finish, or protect your paint with XPEL, our Austin team can help. Call us at (512) 740-5059 or book online.
