How to Remove Oil-Based Paint from the Side of a Car

Oil-based paint is difficult to remove from the side of a car because most chemicals that remove oil-based paint can also harm your car's paint. Learn how to remove oil-based paint from your car so you are prepared for the next mishap.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Car wash soap
• Sponge
• Water hose
• Microfiber towel
• Cotton towels
• Mineral spirits
• Bug and Tar remover
• Car wax

1. Park in the shade and wash your car with car soap and a soft sponge. Keep the car in the shade while it dries so the sun cannot heat the surface. When the surface of the car is hot, the top layer, or "clear" gets warm and soft. Scrubbing this off can damage to paint.

2. Apply mineral spirits to the area that has oil-based paint on it. Keep that area soaking wet with the mineral spirits. The softer the oil-based stain is, the easier it can be removed.

3. Use a microfiber towel to scrub the stained area. Keep the towel and stain soaked in mineral spirits. You may have to use a lot of pressure when scrubbing. This loosens stains considerably. Rinse the mineral spirits off with water and allow the area to dry.

4. Wipe Bug and Tar remover onto the area with oil-based paint with a towel. Allow the remover to soak for a few minutes, and then wipe it away. This may be repeated several times. This should remove all remaining oil-based paint.

5. Wash the area with car soap and allow it to dry. Apply car wax to the area (or the entire car) for protection.

Tips & Warnings

• Always test any cleaners or chemicals on a small area of the car before applying it to the area to be cleaned. Make sure no negative reactions occur.
• Never scrape oil-based paint off with a screwdriver or other sharp object. This will damage the car's paint job.

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