How to Repair Mini Bonnet Stripes
Some models of both the modern Mini and the classic Mini Copper have two thin racing stripes running up the hood. Over time, debris from the road can scratch and damage these strips of vinyl and they will need to be repaired. Covering the damage leaves a noticeable mark, so the only option is to remove the old stripes and replace them entirely.
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Things You'll Need
- Hair dryer
- Paint scraper
- Solvent cleaner
- Sponge
- Vinyl
- Paper
- Pencil or pen
Instructions
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Removal
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1
Warm up the edge of one of the stripes with a hair dryer so the vinyl starts to soften.
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2
Pry up the corner of the strip with fingernails or a paint scraper. Be careful if using the paint scraper so as not to scratch the paintwork on the car.
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3
Pull off the strip in one piece with your hands. Remove any stubborn smaller pieces by heating them with the hair drier and carefully prying them up.
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4
Remove any dried adhesive with a sponge and a solvent cleaner.
Renewing
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5
Make a template for the new bonnet stripes using paper. If possible, trace around the edge of the old stripes.
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6
Cut the new bonnet stripes out of the new vinyl using sharp scissors or a craft knife.
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7
Place the stripes on the car bonnet without removing the adhesive tape to ensure they are the right size and shape.
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8
Pull the adhesive tape off the vinyl. Starting at the top of the bonnet, slowly attach it. Smooth it down while applying to remove any air bubbles that may appear under the vinyl. Carefully pull up the vinyl and reattach to the bonnet in order to remove larger air bubbles. Do this carefully so as not to pull up any paint at the same time.
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9
Apply car wax to the hood of the car after the stripes have been attached for 24 hours. Apply in a circular motion with a lint free cloth and buff out vigorously. This protects the edges of the vinyl from peeling up.
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Tips & Warnings
If the stripes are painted on then scratches can be repaired by applying the same color metal paint.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
