Winter is coming — and if your UTV is hibernating for a few months, it’s important to store it the right way. That doesn’t just mean throwing on a cover and calling it good. If you’ve got a custom vinyl wrap, there are a few extra steps you should take to keep it looking fresh come spring.
Here’s your complete guide to storing a wrapped UTV before winter — without fading, peeling, or long-term damage.
Why Winter Storage Matters for Wrapped Machines
Cold temps, snow, ice, road salt, and UV exposure during winter can age your wrap faster if you’re not prepared.
Improper storage can lead to:
- Edge lifting
- Fade spots from UV exposure
- Cracking from freeze-thaw cycles
- Buildup of grime, sap, or moisture
A few extra steps now will save you time — and potentially hundreds of dollars — later.
Pre-Winter UTV Wrap Storage Checklist
1. Give It a Full Wash
Clean your machine top to bottom. Leaving behind mud, dust, or trail grime can lead to vinyl staining or dulling over time.
- Use a vinyl-safe soap and soft microfiber towels
- Rinse with low-pressure water
- Dry completely — don’t trap moisture under a cover
Pro Tip: Clean wheels, fender wells, and skid plates to reduce the risk of corrosion or wrap contamination.
2. Spot Check Your Wrap
Before storage, do a quick inspection:
- Look for lifting edges, bubbles, or scratches
- Press down any loose corners with your hand or edge tool
- Note any damage to order reprint panels before next season
3. Apply a Vinyl-Safe Protectant (Optional)
Add a layer of protection with a vinyl wrap-safe sealant or ceramic coating.
Benefits:
- Repels dust, snow, and grime
- Makes spring cleaning easier
- Adds UV and chemical resistance
Important: Never use standard car wax or solvent-based sprays — these can damage the laminate.
4. Choose the Right Storage Spot
Best: Indoors, climate-controlled garage or enclosed trailer
Good: Covered carport or shed
Minimum: Outdoor space with a UV-resistant UTV cover
Avoid:
- Parking under trees (sap, snowmelt, bird droppings)
- Exposing the machine to daily freeze/thaw cycles
- Letting snow pile directly on panels
5. Use a UTV-Specific Storage Cover
Choose a breathable, fitted cover with UV protection — not a tarp. Tarps trap moisture and rub against your wrap during windstorms.
Make sure:
- The cover is clean and dry before installing
- It’s secure, but not overly tight (no tension points)
- You uncover and inspect the machine every few weeks
Bonus Tip: Prep for Spring Early
Before you wrap it up for winter:
- Take photos of your machine
- Note any design updates you want for next season
- Reorder any damaged panels through Deviant Ink’s Reprint Program
