Vinyl Decals - Are they worth it?

Sorry if this is in the wrong forum...

Basic question as I'm neither advocating for or against because my first Taco purchase is still months away ( BBP, Sport, DblCb, ShBd, 4x4 ). But I am trying to decide if adding vinyl decals is worth it in the long run. I understand that it is entirely about aesthetic eye candy and serves no functionality unless you're covering something up, i.e. a band aid.

That said, I'm so intrigued by rear quarter panel designs, hood graphics and possibly adding something to the lower side panels on the doors, but I just don't know if it's worth it in the long run. I know there are different vinyl grades rated for longer life, but they will all eventually fail and need removal at some point based on use and care. Despite this being a very personal decision for each owner, any constructive input on the pros/cons would be appreciated.

How do you care for them, if at all?
Paint damage if left on too long?
Fading?
How careful do you have to be with when waxing or sealing?
Are they any different than OEM decals?
Are they removed the same as OEM decals?
Is Toyota paint better than any other manufacturer as a surface?

Thanks in advance and if this needs to be put in a different forum, lead the way and I'll push it over there.

 

The many decals available out there OEM or via our awesome vendors are definitely appealing. Good quality vinyl, with attention to detail makes for a great product that should last a good while with generally no real special care. On the flip side, after looking at the numbers on how much money I’ve spent in less than a year in just decals make me sick. I’m not against decals at all, I love them, can’t get enough of em, I simply made a decision that my suspension and armor are more of a priority. My opinion after my experiences is to put the money where it matters most to you! Not a rant or anything, just thought I’d share my thoughts.

 

Here's my latest vinyl sticker mod - thought I'd share:

 

You might want to check for a leaky rear brake light...

 

Here is my lastest one:

The hood and if you can tell, the corner of the headlight where the parking light is located, there is a TRD decal/film.

As long as you apply it correctly and buy from reputable vendors, they last forever. The longest I had one on a vehicle was 7 years still look new, and then I sold the vehicle. I get my vehicles detailed and waxed so that may have helped the decal.

 

+1 on checking for leaky light. It looks cracked too.

 

Hah,

Sort of like 'leave with the one that brought you'.

 

Thanks bro
Already on it... when I went to install the sticker is when I saw the crack water and the scratches... ooopsie.. must have whacked it with a kayak or 2.

Now another project... wanted to get the mod for brighter LEDs from Meso in the 3rd brake light but not available or he's ignoring me.
I did order a replacement fixture from Toyota. Now have to remove headliner to install replacement.

 

I thought I’d try this for a while and see how it grows on me. Not sure about fading and such as I just put this on recently. I’ll see how it goes when next I wash the truck. I figured I can always remove it later.

 

Looks pretty sharp! Also, good job for not creating another thread

 

Looks nice!

 

Vinyl is an easy way to make your truck different than the others. Here's mine.