FAQ
FAQ
Check out these common topics for quick answers and helpful tips!
General
How long can I expect my vinyl product to last?
Vinyl Overlays / Decals
All Accentrek Designs overlays are made of Oracal 651 or StyleTech: high-quality, outdoor-rated vinyls. When properly installed and under normal abuse, you should expect your overlays to last 3-5 years for Oracal 651 and up to 3 years for StyleTech luster options.
While the adhesive will most likely hold up over time, colors may start to fade and become noticeable.
Tinted Overlays
All Accentrek Designs tinted products are made of VVivid+ headlight and taillight tint. When properly installed and under normal abuse, you should expect your overlays to last 3-5 years.
While our products’ vinyl is classified as permanent, it can be applied and easily removed from your vehicle without causing any damage.
Is this vinyl safe to use on my car's paint?
Yes. Oracal 651, VVivid, and Styletech are suitable vinyls for use on automobiles. With an average lifespan of 3-5 years, you will not have issues with your paint showing signs of fading around where the decal once was. Likewise, the vinyl will not damage your paint if/when you decide to remove it.
Note: In general, car paint will fade over time due to UV damage. Please be sure to remove and/or replace your vinyl products every 5+ years if you have concerns. In most circumstances, it would take 10+ years before you would actually see a noticeable difference.
I don't see my model, are there plans for it?
The goal is to provide overlay options for all 2010 and newer Subaru models. As a small shop, it takes time and resources to get hands on as many different Subaru models as possible for template and product testing.
Want to help? Consider becoming a product tester and help us make new products for models like yours!
When will a product be back in stock?
Inventory is restocked the first of each month, with limited edition items being the exclusion. If a product you want is out of stock and it’s a gift and/or you absolutely can’t wait, please reach out to make a request.
Can I cancel my order?
From the time of purchase you have 12 hours to request a cancellation. Any requests outside of this window may be rejected due to the made-to-order nature of the products and short processing window.
Custom orders may not be cancelled or refunded after the design process has begun.
Once an order has been processed for shipping, refunds will no longer be available.
Orders and Shipping
How long will it take for me to receive my order?
Every purchase is handmade, and orders typically ship within 1-3 business days, excluding holidays.
In the United States, standard shipping via USPS Ground Advantage takes 2-7 business days, although it may vary around the holidays. For faster delivery, you can upgrade to UPS 2nd Day Air shipping.
International orders generally take 2+ weeks to arrive and are shipped using the most economical option, USPS First-Class International Package.
If you have any questions about your in-transit order, feel free to reach out.
Is there a shipping fee?
Yes, but orders in the U.S. over $50 qualify for free shipping.
Every order is shipped in a flat rigid mailer to ensure your products arrive safe and flat. Tracking is also provided with every order.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes!
During checkout, if your country isn't listed, please reach out for a quote.
What if my order was lost in transit?
Occasionally, packages may arrive later than the estimated delivery timeframe provided by the shipping carrier. If your domestic order hasn’t arrived within 10 days of the quoted window, please reach out.
We will review the tracking information and contact the shipping provider on your behalf. If necessary, we’ll initiate the claim process and determine if your order needs to be remade, at no cost to you.
What if my order got damaged during transit?
Please contact us. Although all orders are packaged in sturdy envelope mailers, accidents can still happen. If your product(s) are damaged, contact us, stating what was ruined.
You may be asked to include photo evidence so a claim can be filed. Your damaged product will then be replaced at no cost to you.
What happens if I provided the wrong or insufficient shipping address?
It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure the shipping address provided is accurate and complete. All shipping addresses are imported into the system as is. If you notice an error on your end, please reach out immediately to have your address updated, otherwise we have no way of knowing it’s wrong.
Any undeliverable package, due to an incorrect address being provided, will result in the buyer having to pay the shipping fee again to have their order replaced and reshipped.
Common examples are forgetting to include your apartment number. This will result in a package being returned. Please double check your address when ordering.
What is your return and exchange policy?
Returns are not accepted, and exchanges are not available for products ordered for the wrong vehicle year or model.
Be sure to confirm you have the correct product for your Subaru before placing your order. If you are unsure, please reach out.
Exchanges for reasons like selecting a different color can be arranged, with the customer responsible for the shipping fee and a small handling fee. Please contact us if you'd like to request an exchange.
Install Process
What tools do I need to install my vinyl?
While some of the tools may vary from product to product, these are the recommended application tools:
‣ Isopropyl Alcohol
‣ Application Spray / Soapy Solution
‣ Felt Edge Squeegee
‣ Microfiber Cloths
‣ Hair Dryer / Heat Gun
Don't have the tools? No worries! You'll be given the option to add an install kit or felt edge squeegee to your order or you can grab them here.
Which installs method do I use?
Each product comes with a guide that specifies a recommended install method to help make the process as easy as possible.
Vinyl Overlays:
This is the most common method and the recommended way to install rear reflector and side taillight overlays. Using a soapy solution (95% water / 5% dish soap) or application spray (available for purchase), you lightly mist the adhesive side of your vinyl. This allows you to reposition the vinyl without it completely adhering to the substrate’s surface. Be mindful, the more liquid you use the harder you’ll have to work to remove it to help the vinyl restore it’s adhesive properties as well as release the transfer tape.
Decals:
Like the overlays, all decals are paired with transfer tape. The transfer tape is a helpful aid in keeping your design together. Simply clean your surface, peel the transfer tape with your decal attached, hover over the surface, then place. This method doesn’t allow for repositioning. Using painters tape or another guide is recommended to ensure it is installed exactly the way you want. Wet method can be used, but isn’t recommended as you may have a difficult time releasing the decal from the tape.
Tint:
The tint is a specially formulized air-tint. It is to be applied dry, but unlike vinyl, the nature of the tint allows it to easily be lifted and readjusted. It has an orange peel texture that will disappear after a few days in the sun.
What temperatures can I install them in?
The optimal temperature to install your vinyl or tint is around 70 degrees. The minimum temperature is 46 degrees. When the vinyl is too cold it will be near to impossible to get it to conform around an edge or curved surface. Additionally, the adhesive bond may be uneven, leading to eventual separation from the install surface.
When storing your vinyl prior to installation, keep it at room temperature. If it’s stored somewhere cooler, let it warm up prior to installing, as well as your vehicle.
Are there video tutorials available to help with installation?
Yes! We offer a variety of video tutorials to guide you through the installation process step-by-step. These videos cover different product types and installation tips to make it as easy as possible.
For our full collection of video tutorials, visit our YouTube channel here.
How do I get the vinyl to release from the transfer tape?
To get your decal to stick to the tape:
If your decal remains stuck to the paper backing as you lift the transfer tape, don't fret. Just run a felt edge squeegee over the transfer tape/decal, in multiple directions, until the entire decal comes off the backing and is attached to the tape. The tape holds your design together and allows you to align it to your preferred surface.
Releasing the transfer tape from universal decals:
Use of a felt edge squeegee to lay your decal flat onto the surface and slowly peel the transfer tape back. If the tape is still not releasing from the decal, use the squeegee again and/or apply minor heat. For decals with small details, you may need to do this a few times and/or use your fingers to help release it.
Releasing transfer tape from rear reflector overlays:
To apply your overlay, use a felt-edge squeegee to press it smoothly onto the surface, then carefully peel back the transfer tape. If the tape isn’t coming off easily, excess soapy solution may be the cause. No worries, just avoid pulling on the vinyl as it may tear. Reapply the squeegee pressure and/or use mild heat if necessary. For delicate vinyl areas, you can also use your fingers to help release the tape. If difficulties persist, leave the overlay overnight, allowing the adhesive to regain tackiness, which may make it easier to remove stubborn tape.
Why won't the overhanging vinyl stick to my reflector's edges?
The #1 cause is too much application spray during a wet install. This is incredibly common and fixable. Because you are pushing all the trapped liquid to the edges, the edges of your vinyl will stay wetter longer and consequently the adhesive properties of the vinyl are temporarily dulled. Use heat to help it wrap and if they still aren’t sticking, let it sit overnight, in dry conditions, and use heat and a squeegee to work the vinyl back down the next morning. Be mindful of the temperature as well.
Can I get a replacement side or set?
Of course! Sometimes installs don’t go as planned. Our Redo Program provides discounted replacements for your vinyl product, if needed. You can choose to replace just the side you need or the entire set at a reduced rate.
If you're new to vinyl installation, it’s often best to buy two pairs up front; this way, you get the second pair at 50% off. Although the Redo Program offers discounted replacements, this initial option is the most economical choice and ensures you have a backup on hand.
To order your replacement, click the Redo Program button below.
For additional support, check out these resources:
