Companies spend millions designing their cars including the logo of the make and model of a car. So why do some car owners choose to remove the manufacturer’s logos, badges and emblems?
The practice, known as debadging, is becoming increasingly popular and can range from just removing the model badge from the rear of the car to removing all identifying badges from the exterior, including the boot and front grille.
Why do people debadge?
The main reason people choose to debadge their car is for the look of the car. Aesthetically, taking off all these emblems and logos creates a sleeker, more minimalist feel. And if that’s the look you are going for, debadging could be the answer.
Debadging also makes a statement and helps a car stand out from others of the same brand and make it on the road. It is amazing the difference removing these badges makes to the overall look of the vehicle.
Another reason car owners may debadge their car is to avoid displaying the manufacturer brand, making the car more discreet for those who don’t wish to shout about the brand of car they drive.
Is it legal?
There is no law to prevent you debadging your car as long as it doesn’t interfere with the visibility of vehicle identification marks, such as the number plate. For more radical debadging you should adhere to the specific regulations set out by the DVLA.
You should also be wary if your car is leased and contact your leasing company before you make changes such as debadging.
Will it affect the value of the car?
For all the reasons you may wish to debadge your car, you should be aware that not all people will have the same view and this may have an effect on the saleability, and even value, of your car.
Like-minded individuals may like the customisation of debadging, and even pay a premium for it. Others may prefer to have the brand recognition and authenticity that manufacturers’ badges give.
Some types of debadging allow for the reattaching of the badge at a later date, and this could help the sale of your car.
What’s the process?
For the simple badges on the boot area, for example, the process is relatively simple and involves the careful application of heat to soften the adhesive and then carefully prize the badge off the car without damaging the paintwork. A quick removal of any stray adhesive and a buff and polish and you are done.
AutoLux offers a debadging service, please get in touch to discuss.