Introduction
Driving on the road, it’s not uncommon for vehicles to pick up all sorts of debris, including tar. The black gunk can be unsightly and difficult to remove. Fortunately, there are several ways to remove tar from a car, and it’s crucial to deal with the problem quickly. Tar can damage a car’s paint if left on for too long.
Step-by-step Guide to Remove Tar from Car
Before you start removing tar from your car, gather these materials: dish soap, a soft cloth, a bucket of warm water, bug and tar remover, a microfiber towel, rubbing alcohol, and a clay bar.
1. First, wash your car with soapy water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Apply bug and tar remover to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the area until the tar comes off.
4. Once the tar is removed, rinse the area with warm water and dry with a microfiber towel.
5. If the tar stain remains, use rubbing alcohol on a clean cloth to rub the tar off.
6. If there is still remaining tar, use a clay bar to gently rub the area affected by tar until it is removed.
7. Finally, wash the car with soapy water again to remove any residue from the products used.
When removing tar from your car, it’s essential to follow the safety tips below:
- Wear gloves to protect your skin from the chemicals in the cleaning products
- Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes
- Avoid cleaners labeled as “abrasive,” as these can scratch your car’s paint
Different Options for Removing Tar
There are several methods for removing tar, and each is effective in its way. Below are some alternatives explained:
- WD-40: The oil in this popular product helps break down tar, which makes it easier to remove, but it’s greasy and can harm the paint’s surface.
- Goo Gone: This cleaner is non-abrasive and will not damage the car’s paint.
- Cooking oil: Apply a small amount of vegetable oil to a cloth and rub it on the tar. After a few minutes, wash the car with soapy water and rinse.
- Petroleum jelly: Cover the tar with a layer of petroleum jelly and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Use soapy water to wash the car afterward.
Bear in mind that each method has pros and cons, depending on the type and amount of tar you’re dealing with and the condition of your car’s paint.
Professional Opinions
Car mechanics and detailers are experts on removing tar, and it’s helpful to gain insight from them.
“The most effective way to remove tar from a car is to use a good tar remover and a clay bar,” suggests Rob, a car detailer from Los Angeles. “Using a clay bar can remove any remaining bits of tar or debris without damaging the paint, and it gives the car a smooth, polished finish.”
Comparison of Products
Several products available in the market that are specifically designed to remove tar. When choosing one, consider the type of tar you want to remove and the texture of your car’s paint. Below are three of the best tar removers:
- Meguiar’s Heavy Duty Tar Remover: This product is easy to use and removes all sorts of tar stains effectively.
- Turtle Wax Power Foam Bug & Tar Remover: It’s a powerful cleaner that removes not only tar but also tree sap and bug splatter.
- Griot’s Garage Bug & Smudge Remover: This product is non-abrasive and contains no harsh chemicals.
It’s essential to read the instructions carefully and do a small test on a hidden area of the car’s paint before applying the product.
Preventative Measures
It’s easier to stop tar from sticking to your car’s paint than to remove it after it has dried. Here are some tips to prevent tar residue on your car:
- Avoid driving on recently-resurfaced roads where tar has been newly laid.
- Wash your car regularly to avoid any build-up of dirt, and parked under a shade to avoid exposure under hot sunlight.
- Use a wax or sealant on your car, which creates a barrier between the paint and any external factor that protects the paint.
Conclusion
Tar can be a frustrating problem for car owners, but it’s essential to deal with tar promptly to avoid damage to your car’s paint. There are several effective ways to remove tar, but safety precautions must be taken, such as wearing gloves and avoiding abrasive cleaning products. It’s important to take preventative measures to avoid getting tar on your car in the first place. By following these steps, your prized possession will look as good as new.
