How to Remove Bug Splatter

Wash your car to avoid paint damage from bug spatter.

Bug splatter is impossible to avoid if you spend any time driving on the open road. Unfortunately, the bug remains are not just unsightly -- uncleaned bug splatter is a major cause of paint erosion on vehicles. The acid content of the bug splatter can ruin your beautiful paint job. However, regular cleaning of your vehicle will make sure the paint job remains gleaming and brilliant.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Rag
• Car wash soap
• Hose
• Water

Instructions

1. Read the instructions on your car wash soap to mix the correct ratio of cleaning agent to water. Mix the solution thoroughly.

2. Use your cleaning solution and a rag to wash bug splatter and other debris off your car. Wipe in circular motions. Dip the rag into the cleaning solution frequently to keep the rag clean and wet at all times.

3. Rinse your vehicle with water from a hose. Refrain from scraping stubborn bug splatter off with your fingernail -- this may chip the paint. Repeat the wash and rinse process until all bug splatter is removed.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to wash your vehicle once a week, even if it does not look dirty. This will keep all bug splatter off the paint, which will keep your car looking new for a long time.

• Do not use dish soap or detergent to wash your vehicle. Over time, these soaps will break down paint components and degrade the luster of your paint job. Stick to car-specific washing agents.

References

• ConsumerReports.org: Do's and Don'ts of Washing Your Car; February 2011