TikTok makes DIY car wraps look like a weekend breeze—smooth vinyl, perfect edges, instant flex. Reality? It’s a beast. Here’s what those 60-second vids skip—and when to tap out for a pro.

The Hidden Truth:

• Tools: You need more than a heat gun and squeegee—think knives, alcohol, and patience. Total cost? $100-$300.
• Skills: Wrapping curves (e.g., bumpers) takes practice. Mess up, and it’s wrinkles galore.
• Time: Full wrap? 20-40 hours. TikTok’s “10-minute hood” is a lie.

Fail Story: Mike, Ohio: “Tried wrapping my Civic after a TikTok binge. Bubbles everywhere, edges peeled in a week. Dropped $700 on vinyl and still paid a pro $2,000 to fix it.”

When to Call a Pro:

• Complex cars (lots of curves).
• First-timers with no patience.
• If you want it to last 5+ years.