You have probably seen them speeding down the highway or stuck beside you in traffic – cars covered in magnetic advertisements. This kind of marketing is growing in popularity, and for good reason. It costs less than it does to paint a car, is far less permanent, and transfers easily from one vehicle to another or into storage. Before you jump into the world of magnetic marketing and mobile advertising, however, we want you to be aware of all the potential perks and drawbacks so that you can make an informed decision.

Perks and Drawbacks

Magnetic panels are typically made from a blend of ferrite powder and either rubber or polymer resin. This ensures consistent magnetism and added durability. While the ferrite compound isn’t the strongest magnet in existence—it has a pull strength of about 85 pounds/square foot—it is strong enough to withstand high winds on the highway. However, panels can exhibit drawbacks related to temperature. This blend of material becomes brittle in cold weather and is typically less effective in temperatures nearing 30° F. Extreme heat also presents a problem, making them less effective, so they should not be used on surfaces breaching 150° F. In a hot climate, the surface of your car can reach over 160° F. Fortunately, you can remove and store your magnetic signage at any time if the weather becomes an issue, and regardless, you should adjust regularly to make sure the surface of your car does not fade. If you are unsure of the temperature of your car, place your panels in an area that receives less direct sunlight. Ideally, they should be placed on the side of a vehicle, the back doors of a van, or the tailgate of a truck – all places where they are easily seen and exposed to less light. Note that magnets should not be placed over other magnets, decals, or raised parts on the surface of a vehicle because they will only securely adhere to a flat surface.

Maintain the Magnetic Advertisement

Thanks to ferrite, the panel magnet is more durable than other magnetic materials, such as neodymium. This allows you to clean the magnet weekly with a mild detergent. Depending on the weather, you may choose to clean the magnet at even more regular intervals. You should also clean your car with a mild detergent before applying magnets. Wax the surface of the vehicle and the back of the magnet for extra protection. At the time of application, the magnet should be room temperature (around 60° F.) If you need to adjust the magnet’s position, always peel it off by the sides, not the corners. Never pull or turn it while it is still attached either. Pulling and turning like this could warp the magnet or scratch the car by dragging particles that might be stuck underneath.

Storage of Magnetic Advertisements

Store magnetic panels on a flat, dry surface in a clean area. Avoid placing anything on top of or beneath them, and be sure the poles alternate, meaning their north and south poles face opposite directions. If you were to use a stronger magnet like neodymium, you would want to use a keeper bar, which is magnetic shielding made to “absorb” the magnetic field.

Trust Apex Magnets

If you want to create your own magnetic car advertisement, you can place the desired visual onto the sticky side of our adhesive backed magnetic signs. We use quality 3M adhesive glue that can hold your graphic firmly in place. Visit our custom magnet request form to tailor the size and shape of your adhesive backed magnet.