What is dechrome or chrome delete?

Dechrome (also called chrome delete) is the process of covering or replacing chrome trim on a vehicle with black, satin, or matte vinyl film to create a stealthier, more modern look.

How long does a dechrome last?

A professionally applied dechrome using premium vinyl film typically lasts 5–7 years with proper care and maintenance.

How much does dechrome cost in Slough?

At Exelion PPF in Slough, dechrome packages start from £250 for an essential package and from £600 for a full exterior dechrome.

What is Dechrome?

Dechrome & Chrome Delete Explained

Q: Can dechrome be reversed?

Yes. Vinyl dechrome is fully reversible. A professional can remove the film without damaging the original chrome trim underneath.

A complete guide to dechrome — what it is, which elements can be treated, the films we use, and the finishes available.

Delete the chrome. Keep the class.

Dechrome — also known as chrome delete — is the process of covering or replacing chrome trim elements on a vehicle with a vinyl film in a chosen finish, most commonly gloss black, satin black, or matte black. It's one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways to modernise a car's appearance, giving it a cleaner, more aggressive, or more stealthy look without permanent modification. At Exelion PPF, we use Avery Dennison and 3M vinyl films for all dechrome work — the same premium films we use for full vehicle wraps.

We use Avery Dennison and 3M vinyl films for all dechrome work — precision-cut and applied for a factory-quality finish.

What can be dechromed?

Chrome elements we treat

Front grille surround

One of the most visible chrome elements on any car. Blacking out the grille surround instantly modernises the front end.

Window surrounds

The chrome trim that frames the side windows. Replacing this with black vinyl is one of the most popular dechrome modifications.

Door handle inserts

The chrome inserts within the door handles. Often overlooked but highly visible — blacking these out completes the stealth look.

Mirror caps

Chrome mirror caps can be wrapped in any finish to match or contrast the body colour.

Rear badge surrounds

The chrome rings or frames around manufacturer badges on the boot lid or tailgate.

Boot lid trim strips

Horizontal chrome strips across the boot lid or tailgate — a common feature on saloons and estates.

Side sill trims

Chrome sill trims along the lower body. Blacking these out gives the car a lower, more planted appearance.

Exhaust tips

Chrome exhaust tips can be wrapped in black or body-colour vinyl for a cohesive look.

How it works

The dechrome process

Inspection & quote

We identify every chrome element on your vehicle and provide a detailed quote for individual elements or a full dechrome package.

Film selection

Choose your finish — gloss black, satin black, matte black, or body-colour match. We can show you physical samples before you commit.

Surface preparation

Each chrome element is cleaned and decontaminated. Where possible, trim pieces are removed for a cleaner, edge-wrapped finish.

Film application & inspection

Precision-cut film is applied to each element, post-heated to lock it in place, and inspected for a factory-quality finish before handover.

Our films

Avery Dennison & 3M for dechrome

We use the same premium Avery Dennison and 3M vinyl films for dechrome work as we do for full vehicle wraps. These films are specifically designed to conform to the complex shapes and tight radii of chrome trim elements, with a pressure-activated adhesive that bonds firmly without damaging the chrome or surrounding paintwork. Both films are removable — if you ever want to restore the original chrome, the film can be cleanly removed.

Conforms to complex shapes

Cast vinyl films stretch and conform to tight curves and recesses without lifting or creasing.

Bonds without damage

The adhesive bonds firmly to chrome without etching or staining the surface beneath.

Fully removable

If you want to restore the original chrome, the film can be cleanly removed by a professional.

UV stable

Avery Dennison and 3M films are UV-stabilised to resist fading and discolouration over time.

Finishes

Available finishes

Gloss black

Sharp, high-contrast, and the most popular choice. Creates a striking contrast against light body colours.

Satin black

A premium, semi-gloss finish — less reflective than gloss but more refined than matte.

Matte black

Flat and aggressive — the stealth choice. Works particularly well on dark body colours.

Body colour match

We can match the film to your car's body colour for a seamless, integrated look. Priced on application.

See dechrome pricing

FAQs

Common questions about dechrome

Will dechrome damage my chrome trim?+

No. The vinyl film is applied over the chrome without any modification to the trim itself. When removed correctly by a professional, the original chrome is revealed undamaged.

Can dechrome be reversed?+

Yes — this is one of the key advantages of vinyl dechrome over painting. The film can be cleanly removed at any time, restoring the original chrome finish.

How long does dechrome last?+

With proper care, Avery Dennison and 3M vinyl films used for dechrome will last 5–7 years. The film may need replacing sooner on elements exposed to high heat, such as exhaust tips.

Can you dechrome just one or two elements?+

Absolutely. We can treat individual elements — just the window surrounds, for example — or do a full exterior dechrome. See our pricing page for individual element costs.

Does dechrome affect my warranty?+

Vinyl dechrome is a non-permanent modification and does not affect your manufacturer warranty. The original trim is preserved beneath the film.

Ready to delete the chrome?

Get a free quote and we'll confirm exactly which elements your vehicle has and the best finish to match your style.

Get a free quote