Customising a Mercedes van isn’t just about swapping alloys; it’s also about enhancing visibility for commercial use. A Mercedes chevron kit offers a straightforward solution, adding visibility while respecting the vehicle’s factory look.
Rear hazard stripes are a regular sight across vans in the UK, particularly in roadside support. When properly installed, the kit follows the body lines of the van, without clashing with the styling.
Understanding Chevron Kits for Mercedes
A chevron kit generally includes alternating red and yellow stripes positioned across the vehicle’s rear. These are designed to meet UK visibility guidelines, commonly required for highway use.
Choosing a kit designed accurately for Mercedes models ensures clean alignment – avoiding mismatched cuts that can result from using non-tailored kits.
Model-Specific Kits Explained
Mercedes vans differ not just by size, but by their hinge placements. Using a vehicle-specific design ensures a smoother application.
- Mercedes Citan: The Citan’s compact build means chevron kits must be smaller in scale to fit narrow rear doors and tighter clearances. These kits are commonly used by urban fleet operators needing rear visibility without compromising aesthetics.
- Mercedes Vito: For this mid-sized van, kits must line up with central joins. With the Vito being popular among logistics and site teams, fitting a chevron kit is both practical and often expected.
- Mercedes Sprinter: On long-wheelbase and high-roof variants, rear space is larger and chevrons need to be applied in multiple parts to maintain alignment. These kits are designed to work around hinges and rear furniture like door handles and locks.
Preparing for Chevron Application
Professional tools aren't necessary, but correct preparation makes all the difference. Start by removing any dirt and grease. A dry and debris-free panel helps the adhesive bond securely.
You will also need:
- A tape measure to align panels properly
- Temporary guide tape to mark up lines
- Vinyl applicator to smooth the chevrons onto the bodywork
- Hairdryer or heat gun for edges and corners
It’s wise to check placement before applying any part permanently, which reduces the chance of creasing.
How to Source Reliable Chevron Kits
Stick to suppliers that offer official designs. Good quality kits are made from weather-resistant material and come with detailed fitting help to assist both professionals and first-time installers.
FAQs
Can a Mercedes chevron kit be removed later?
Yes. If applied and removed correctly, the paintwork is usually not affected.
Will it fit over rear windows?
Kits are offered in window-friendly versions, or can be cut to suit during application.
Do the colours fade?
Premium kits are made with fade-resistant materials and remain clear through sun exposure and regular cleaning.
Is fitting it yourself advisable?
Yes – particularly on smaller vans like the Citan. Larger models may benefit from professional help, but DIY is common for confident users.
Can I get colours to match my fleet?
Some providers offer branding options for companies looking to match livery.
Final Thoughts
A Mercedes chevron kit is a smart way to add professional visibility to your van without disrupting read more its design. Whether for the Citan, Vito click here or Sprinter, selecting the correct version will make the end result cleaner.
Look for specialist kit providers with experience in Mercedes chevron applications, and you’ll have a vehicle that’s both road-ready and aligned with industry requirements.