How to Remove Latex Paint From Car

Removing latex paint stains from cars can be tricky.

Removing latex paint from the inside and outside of the car is a tricky project. The paint on the exterior of the car can become damaged when certain paint-removing chemicals are applied. In addition, upholstery or carpet fibers can get dyed in the process of removing latex paint. Employ extreme caution by testing all paint removal methods on a small hard-to-see area before applying any chemicals to the car.

Things You'll Need

• Car shampoo
• Rags
• Clay bar lubricant
• Utility knife
• Clay bar
• Towel
• Car wax
• Spray bottle
• Clear laundry detergent
• Towels
• Fan

Instructions

Exterior of Car

1. Purchase a detailing clay bar kit from your local auto supply store. Clay bar is a resin that is designed to pick up foreign materials off the paint of the car and leave a shiny surface.

2. Wash the exterior of your car with car shampoo. Dry naturally or use soft rags.

3. Cut up an 8-oz. clay bar into 2-oz. pieces with a utility knife. Spray the latex paint area with the clay lubricant spray that comes with the clay bar kit.

4. Rub the clay bar back and forth across the latex paint stain. Wipe the area with a lint-free towel when stain has been removed.

5. Rub car wax over the car with a soft rag. Buff the wax with clean, soft rags.

Interior of Car

1. Blot up wet paint with a towel. Avoid rubbing the wet latex paint, because it will cause the paint to spread.

2. Wet dry paint with water. Spray the stained area with a spray bottle and dab at the stain with a towel.

3. Dilute 2 tsp. of clear laundry detergent in a 1-gallon spray bottle. Spray the area with the soapy mixture. Blot at the latex stain with a towel. Continue to spray upholstery and carpeting with soapy mixture.

4. Rinse off upholstery with clean water from the spray bottle. Open the windows or place a fan near an opened car door to help dry area.

Tips & Warnings

• Dry your carpeting and upholstery thoroughly to avoid causing mold growth in the car.

• Refrain from using a detergent that contains bleach, because it can cause upholstery and carpeting to lose its color.

References

• Auto Geek: Auto Detailing
• Tip King: Latex Paint