Did you see a Tesla Model X with all chrome pieces blacked out and wondered what would it take to get chrome deletes on your Model 3?
There are many things you should know when looking into getting chrome deletes, and this page has it all. From average costs to types of chrome deletes to choosing the right installer, we are here to help you.
If the chrome trim that many vehicle manufacturers insist on just aren’t your thing, you can achieve a slick, blacked out stealth look with chrome deletes. This is a particularly attractive option for Tesla Model 3.
What Are The Average Costs?
Like any car customization, the cost will depend on many factors including the type of chrome delete you choose, the quality of the material, and the expertise and notoriety of the installers.
Generally, you can expect to spend between $500 to $1000 when getting your Model 3 blacked out. On average, it will likely come up to around $800.
What Type of Chrome Deletes Should I Get?
Most places are talking about using vinyl wrap to cover the chrome parts of your vehicle when they advertise chrome deletes. That being said, that is not the only option out there and you should ensure you know which type of chrome deletes you are getting before you schedule blacking out your Model 3.
Another way chrome deletes is achieved besides vinyl is through painting your chrome trim and emblems. This option is significantly more expensive and less durable. Painted chrome deletes are prone to chipping and are not a long term solution. One of the most liable areas on Tesla Model 3s for chipping and other paint imperfections is the front T, some having the paint chip off and exposing the underlying chrome in less than 6 months.
Tesla authorized body shops have been quoted discouraging painting chrome parts because it is not long-lasting. If the chrome parts of your vehicle are to be properly painted according to authorized Tesla customization shops, the areas you want to be deleted must first be dechromed, then primer and rust prevention products must be applied, and then painted. This is not a reversible process.
Not only do vinyl chrome deletes provide a more durable, high quality, solution to cover your Tesla Model 3s chrome, it can also be removed without damaging your vehicle in any way. If there is any chance you will be selling your vehicle in the future, vinyl chrome deletes are the way to go because it will not affect your resale value what-so-ever.
Matching Interior and Wheels
Just because your interior and wheels look good now with the chrome trim still exposed does not mean that it will continue to look good when you have your chrome deleted. Before you take the dive and get your Model 3 blacked out, consider how it will look all together as a package.
Make sure your interior color and wheels will match with your vehicle’s new sleek style. For example, many people report that Aero 18” wheels, with or without the cover, clashes with their chrome deletes.
Everyone has a different idea about what looks best, so do your own research and look at other blacked-out Model 3s to see what combinations you like the most. Also, consider other colors besides black. Since it is a form of vinyl wrapping, you can choose other colors.
Can You Do It Yourself?
When looking at the cost it’s easy for some people to contemplate if they can accomplish their desired look themselves. After all, it’s only the chrome bits. For a substantially reduced price, there are do-it-yourself chrome delete kits available online, like those by Kenriko, that cost under $200.
Not only are you far more likely to make a mistake than a reputable installer, installing the vinyl wrap to cover your chrome parts will take a considerable amount of time, often taking five or more hours for amateurs.
Chrome deletes on a Model 3 include covering the mirrors, top trim, front door trim, back door trim, Tesla emblems frunk/trunk, door handles, and side indicators. That is a lot of intricate work.
Some Tesla owners have attempted to use Plasti Dip to blackout their Model 3s for as little as $30. This is an air-drying, flexible, no-slip, rubber coating that you spray onto your chrome parts. Although some people have managed to get the look they were going for, many people who tried found the results to be unsatisfactory.
Another factor to consider if you’re thinking about Plasti Dip besides how to ensure you don’t get it where you don’t want it is maintenance. Since it is a sprayable rubber, it is harder to clean off bug guts and other debris than vinyl wrap or paint.
Instead of wasting your time, money, and effort, it is best to go to a reputable professional. Where to find the best car customization in Los Angeles depends on many factors, but in this case, you will want to focus on finding a place that has extensive experience with chrome deletes as well as Tesla vehicles.
The experience of the body shop, the quality of their materials, and their customer review should help you decide which place to trust your Model 3 with.
Is There a Way To Protect Paint and Chrome Deletes?
One way to protect your chrome deletes is to have ceramic coating applied on top of it. Not only can you protect your chrome deletes, but you can also protect the entirety of your Model 3s body.
Ceramic coatings are great since it is hydrophobic, enhances your shine giving an even sleeker appearance to your blacked out Tesla, and provides contamination, wear, scratch, and UV protection.
Wrapping Up
Getting chrome deletes for your Tesla Model 3 is a great idea for many owners, giving your vehicle a strikingly sleek appearance. It is advisable to go for vinyl chrome deletes that can be removed easily and will not chip and have it installed by a reliable customization shop.
You should expect to pay around $800 and it may be a good idea to consider protecting your paint and chrome deletes with a ceramic coating product.
