How to Get Hydraulic Oil Off Your Car

Hydraulic oil is the main ingredient in transmission and brake fluid in automobiles. It can leave a very bad stain if left on the surface of a car. You can remove hydraulic oil without damaging the finish by using the right cleaning agents and procedure. A combination of a degreaser and a neutralizing agent is proper course of action to successfully remove the hydraulic fluid.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towel
• TSP (trisodium phosphate)
• Degreaser (WD-40 or similar product)
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Car wax

Instructions

1. Blot the affected area with paper towel to remove as much of the oil as possible. Do not wipe or smear the oil, but dab it to remove the excess oil.

2. Spray the area liberally with WD-40 or a similar degreaser product to cut the oil and break it up. Let the degreaser soak into the area for 15 to 20 minutes, and then use a paper towel to remove the degreaser and oil. Use a blotting technique, and do not wipe or smear the liquid.

3. Use a bucket to mix a gallon of warm water with a cup of TSP.

4. Dip a sponge or rag damp into the TSP solution, and use it to thoroughly clean the affected area. This will neutralize any effects the degreaser may have on the surface of the car.

5. Wash and wax the entire car, paying especially close attention to the area that had the stain.