How to Get Spray Paint off Car Tires

Lubricate the tires to prevent unintentional damage due to abrasion.

When spray paint accidentally gets onto surfaces like clothing, furniture or floors, it can lead many people to feel a sense of dismay. However, when paint finds it's way onto an automobile, the results can be frustrating and expensive to repair. It can be difficult to remove spray paint from a car's finish without damaging the very surface you wish to save. If you need to get spray paint off car tires, you're far more fortunate because rubber isn't suitable to paint adhesion, making it much easier to work with.

Things You'll Need

• Olive oil
• Rags
• Coarse brush
• Mineral spirits
• Plastic putty knife

Instructions

1. Lubricate the tires to prevent unintentional damage due to abrasion. Apply a few drops of olive oil to a rag and wipe down the paint. Do not use petroleum-based lubricants like motor oil or WD-40.

2. Allow the oil to sit for two minutes and then scrub away the spray paint using a coarse brush. Scrub in a circular, clockwise motion. Repeat steps one and two at least three times. Proceed to step three only if any spray paint remains on the tires.

3. Dampen a fresh, clean rag with mineral spirits. Do not over-apply. Ring out the rag if you notice any mineral spirits dripping.

4. Wipe down the remaining spray paint on the tires. Allow the mineral spirits to sit for one minute so it can loosen the paint. Do not wait longer than one minute, as mineral spirits will evaporate rather quickly.

5. Scrape the spray paint free using a plastic putty knife. Do not use a metal putty knife as this could potentially carve gouges from the surface of the tire leading to permanent damage.

Tips & Warnings

• When it comes to painting, minor mishaps are par for the course. You can limit these mistakes by taking your time and moving items you want protected from paint far away from where you are working. If you accidentally get paint over-spray on your car's tires, try to get to it before it dries, and clean it with a wet rag. If, however, the paint dries before you notice it, don't panic.

• Do not use excessive force to try to remove the spray paint as this may cause irreversible damage to the tire. Simply follow the above steps, and you will achieve success.

• Avoid using harsh cleaners on car tires as some have the ability to damage rubber, which could lead to melting or future cracks in the surface.

Resources

• Popular Mechanics: 5 Pro Painting Tips Every Amateur Should Know