This install tutorial demonstrates wrapping the grey tailgate on a 2016 to 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The video shows how to wrap around the tailgate handle cleanly when the handle cannot be removed from the truck.
Masking and Recesses
If you cannot remove the handle, cover it with masking tape before laying the material. Lay out the film, pick it up, and glass it out across each side. Squeegee the film into and around the taped area. Because the surface is not flat, apply heat and use a glove to press and lock the vinyl into the recessed sections until the film is tight around the handle.
Relief Cuts and Trimming
Next, make a circular relief cut matching the shape of the handle. Start with a small cut and open it up gradually as needed. Use the hard edge of your squeegee to tuck the vinyl into the edge as deep as possible. Heat the film right before trimming. To cut, lay the blade inside the gap and ride along the edge of the handle. Remove the excess material, then tuck the remaining edge down once more with the squeegee.
Aura Vinyl vinyl wrap uses a cast polymer hybrid build with German-made adhesive to allow smooth repositioning during installation.
FAQ
How do you wrap a Tacoma tailgate handle that cannot be removed?
Apply masking tape over the handle before laying the vinyl. Glass the material across the panel, squeegee around the taped area, and use heat with an install glove to secure the recesses.
What is the proper way to cut vinyl around a tailgate handle?
Make a small circular relief cut in the shape of the handle, expanding it as needed. Tuck the vinyl with the hard edge of a squeegee, apply heat, and guide the blade along the gap against the handle edge.
