Contents
How to Remove Old Stickers from Car Body
Materials You’ll Need
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol)
- White vinegar
- Hairdryer
- Plastic scraper or credit card
- Clean cloths or paper towels
- Optional: WD-40 or Goo Gone
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Clean the area around the sticker. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt or debris from the area around the sticker. This will help to prevent the residue from spreading when you start peeling.
- Apply rubbing alcohol to the sticker. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean cloth or paper towel and dab it onto the sticker. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the adhesive.
- Use a hairdryer to heat the sticker. Hold the hairdryer about 6 inches away from the sticker and heat it on a low setting for a few minutes. The heat will help to further soften the adhesive.
- Peel off the sticker. Once the sticker is soft, start peeling it off from one corner. Use a plastic scraper or credit card to help lift the sticker if needed. Be careful not to scratch the paint.
- Remove any remaining adhesive. If there is any adhesive left on the car body, use a clean cloth or paper towel dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe it off. You can also use white vinegar to remove the adhesive.
- Use WD-40 or Goo Gone (optional). If the adhesive is still not coming off, you can try using WD-40 or Goo Gone. Apply a small amount of either product to a clean cloth or paper towel and rub it over the adhesive. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe it off.
- Wash and wax the car. Once all of the adhesive has been removed, wash and wax the car to protect the paint.
Tips
- If the sticker is very old or has been exposed to the sun for a long time, it may be more difficult to remove. You may need to use a stronger solvent, such as acetone or paint thinner. However, be sure to test the solvent on an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage the paint.
- If you are removing a sticker from a window, do not use a plastic scraper or credit card. Instead, use a soft cloth or paper towel to avoid scratching the glass.
- Be patient. It may take some time to remove all of the adhesive from the car body.
Conclusion
Removing old stickers from a car body can be a time-consuming task, but it is important to do it properly to avoid damaging the paint. By following the steps in this guide, you can safely and effectively remove any old stickers from your car.