Chrome Delete: How to Remove Chrome Trim with Vinyl Wrap
Chrome delete gives your car a cleaner, more modern appearance by covering shiny chrome trim with black or coloured vinyl. Here is everything you need to know about the process, pricing, durability and which cars benefit the most.
Shiny chrome trim around windows, on grilles and at door handles was once a symbol of luxury and quality. Times have changed. More and more car owners want a cleaner, darker look without reflective chrome accents. Chrome delete has become one of the most popular forms of car styling in Norway, especially among Tesla owners and those driving German premium brands.
At Show Off AS, we have performed chrome delete on everything from Tesla Model Y to BMW 3 Series and Mercedes E-Class. Here is what you need to know before making your decision.
What is chrome delete?
Chrome delete is a treatment where your car's chrome trim is covered with vinyl wrap, typically in black. The result is a cleaner, sportier appearance without any permanent changes to the vehicle.
Unlike painting, chrome delete is fully reversible. The vinyl can be removed without damaging the chrome or the paint underneath. That makes it a safe choice, even for leased vehicles.
Why is chrome delete so popular?
The short answer: modern cars look better without chrome. Tesla understood this early and started delivering the Model 3 and Model Y with black trim from the factory (starting with the 2021 model year). Other manufacturers like BMW, Audi and Mercedes now offer "Shadow Line" or "Black Optic" packages as optional extras. But those factory packages often cost NOK 15,000 to 25,000 from the dealer.
Chrome delete with vinyl gives you the same result at a fraction of the price.
More reasons car owners choose chrome delete
- Modern appearance: Black trim gives the car a cohesive, tight design that chrome simply cannot match.
- Less maintenance: Chrome shows water spots, fingerprints and minor damage far more than matte or gloss black vinyl.
- Protects the chrome: The vinyl acts as a shield against oxidation, salt and environmental damage.
- Reversible: The film is removed without a trace. Perfect for leased cars or if you plan to sell.
- Cheaper than factory options: Chrome delete costs a fraction of "Black Line" packages from the dealer.
Which cars benefit most from chrome delete?
Some cars have more chrome than others, and those are exactly the ones that see the biggest transformation.
Popular models for chrome delete in Norway
| Brand | Models | Typical chrome areas |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla | Model 3 (pre-2021), Model S, Model X | Window trim, logo, emblems |
| BMW | 3 Series, 5 Series, X3, X5 | Grille surround, window trim, exhaust tips |
| Mercedes | C-Class, E-Class, GLC, GLE | Grille, window trim, door trim |
| Audi | A4, A6, Q5, Q7 | Grille surround, window trim, mirror caps |
| Volvo | XC60, XC90, S60 | Window trim, grille details |
Electric vehicles in general have a minimalist design that pairs particularly well with chrome delete. Tesla owners with pre-2021 Model 3 and Model Y models consider chrome delete practically mandatory.
The process: How chrome delete is done
A professional chrome delete typically takes between 3 and 6 hours, depending on how much chrome the car has and how complex the shapes are.
Step by step
- Wash and degrease: All chrome surfaces are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, grease and wax.
- Inspection: The chrome is checked for damage that could affect the result.
- Cutting: The vinyl is cut by hand to match the car's contours. Experienced installers work precisely around curves and edges.
- Application: The vinyl is applied using heat and pressure. Professional tools ensure the film conforms without bubbles or wrinkles.
- Finishing: Edges and transitions are sealed for a clean, factory-like result.
At Show Off AS, we often remove trim pieces and details where possible, so that the vinyl edges become invisible. It takes a bit longer, but the result is significantly better.
How much does chrome delete cost?
The price varies depending on the car model and how much chrome needs to be covered. Here is an overview of typical prices in Norway.
Chrome delete price guide
| Scope | Price range (ex. VAT) |
|---|---|
| Window trim only | NOK 2,500 - 4,000 |
| Window trim + door handles | NOK 3,500 - 5,500 |
| Complete chrome delete (all chrome trim) | NOK 5,000 - 8,000 |
| Tesla Model X (extensive chrome) | NOK 6,000 - 8,000 |
| BMW/Mercedes with grille surround | NOK 5,500 - 9,000 |
The price depends on the car model, amount of chrome and chosen vinyl type. Cars with complex shapes and many chrome elements naturally fall in the upper price range.
For comparison: A "Shadow Line" package from a BMW dealer typically costs NOK 18,000 to 25,000. Chrome delete with vinyl delivers a comparable result at roughly a third of the price.
Matte, gloss or carbon: Which finish should you choose?
Most people choose black vinyl for chrome delete, but you have several finish options.
| Finish | Appearance | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Matte black | Subdued, modern, no reflections | Matte car colours, sporty vehicles |
| Gloss black | Deep, shiny black | Most car colours, creates contrast |
| Satin black | Semi-gloss, silky | Modern look, popular choice |
| Carbon fibre | Textured carbon fibre pattern | Sports cars, details like mirror caps |
Matte black is the most popular choice, closely followed by gloss black. Satin offers a nice middle ground if you want something that is neither fully matte nor mirror-like. Want to learn more about matte and satin finishes? Read our complete guide to matte wraps and satin finishes.
Durability: How long does chrome delete last?
With quality vinyl from brands like 3M, Avery Dennison or ORACAL, and professional installation, you can expect chrome delete to last 5 to 7 years. That is longer than many people expect, and often longer than paint would last on the same trim pieces.
What affects durability?
- Vinyl quality: Premium cast vinyl from 3M or Avery Dennison lasts the longest.
- Installation quality: Proper preparation and precise edges prevent the vinyl from lifting.
- Maintenance: Regular hand washing and careful use of pressure washers extend the lifespan.
- Climate: Norwegian conditions with salt, cold and UV exposure wear down all vinyl over time. Garage parking helps.
Chrome delete vs. painting: Which is better?
Some people consider painting the chrome black instead of wrapping it. Here are the key differences.
| Chrome delete (vinyl) | Painting | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | NOK 2,500 - 9,000 | NOK 8,000 - 20,000 |
| Durability | 5-7 years | 5-10 years |
| Reversible | Yes, removed without damage | No, permanent |
| Installation time | 3-6 hours | 2-5 days |
| Suitable for leasing | Yes | No |
| Result | Excellent | Excellent |
For most people, vinyl is the better choice. You get a result that is virtually indistinguishable from paint, at a lower price, and with the option to remove it later.
DIY or professional installation?
DIY chrome delete kits are available on the market, including options from TesBros (now DIY Wrap Club) for Tesla. Prices range from NOK 500 to 2,000 for a complete set.
However, chrome trim often has difficult curves, sharp edges and tight transitions. Without experience and proper tools, many people end up with bubbles, wrinkles and edges that lift after a few months.
We regularly see cars that come in after failed DIY attempts. You then pay for the kit, then to have it removed, and finally for professional installation. It rarely works out cheaper in the long run.
Our recommendation: leave it to the professionals. The time savings and quality difference are worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chrome delete damage the paint or chrome?
No. Quality vinyl from reputable manufacturers can be removed without leaving adhesive residue or damaging the surface underneath. This assumes the vinyl was installed correctly and that a professional removes it using heat.
How long does chrome delete take?
Usually between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the car model and scope. Cars with extensive chrome and complex shapes take the longest. At Show Off AS, most jobs are completed within a working day.
Is chrome delete suitable for leased cars?
Yes, and that is one of its major advantages. The vinyl is removed at the end of the lease period without leaving any trace. Many leasing companies approve chrome delete precisely because it is reversible.
Do I need to register chrome delete with the authorities?
No. Chrome delete does not change the car's primary colour, only the trim details. You therefore do not need to report a colour change. That requirement only applies to full colour change wraps.
Can I wash my car normally after chrome delete?
Yes, but use hand washing or touchless automatic wash. Avoid brush washes, and keep pressure washers at least 30 cm from vinyl edges. Read more about maintenance in our guide with 5 tips for vehicle wrapping.
Ready for chrome delete?
Chrome delete is a fast, affordable and reversible way to give your car a modern, cohesive look. Whether you drive a Tesla, BMW, Mercedes or any other car with chrome trim, the result is a sportier and more refined vehicle.
At Show Off AS in Sandnes, we use premium vinyl from 3M and Avery Dennison, and perform all work in our climate-controlled workshop. We have wrapped over 1,300 vehicles since 2017 and know exactly how chrome trim should be treated for a flawless result.
Want to know what chrome delete costs for your car? Get in touch for a free quote, or learn more about our vehicle wrapping services. You can also check our complete pricing guide for vehicle wrapping and PPF protection for Tesla. Considering a full colour change? Read our guide on car colour change with vinyl wrap. We also offer window tinting for improved privacy and UV protection.