How to Remove Tar from a Car? – The Right Way To Do So
- March 21, 2025
- Blog
Are you worrying about the sticky tar on your car’s exterior? Relax; removing the tar from the car without damaging the paint is easy. In this blog post, you’ll learn the do’s and don’ts without getting into trouble.
What is Tar?
Before we get into the process of removing tar, let me explain what it is so you understand its definition. Tar is a black substance that gets sticky when heated and is used to make roads. It offers durability, which is why it’s one of the top choices for road construction worldwide. Sometimes, it gets into the car, leaving a bad impression on the viewer and owner.
Tar’s Impact on Car Paintwork
Since tar is a complex combination of hydrocarbon and natural materials like coal & wood, it contains volatile compounds. Thus, when it interacts with the surface of the car, it leads to many issues, such as:
- Discolouration
- Irreversible Damage
- Leaving Black Residue
Car Surfaces That Get Damaged Due to Tar
Want to know where the tar can get stuck on your car? Well, mostly, it can stick on outer parts as they are more exposed to tar build-ups. Some of the spots are:
- Lower body panels
- Rocker panels
- Wheel arches
- Bumpers
- Mirrors
- Wheel wells
- Doors
- Quarter panels
These are the common areas which are prone to tar stickiness.
Before You Start Tar Removal
Wait a second!
Are you just starting the tar removal after it gets stuck? Good to know, but gather these things and then start the process:
- Tar remover from any standardised brand
- Microfibre cloth for removal of tar
- Protective gloves to keep your hands safe from chemicals
- Water and car shampoo solution in a bucket for final washing
Note: If you’re looking for an alternative, clay bars are the top option. As a synthetic resin compound, it can precisely remove road grit, so if you don’t want to purchase a tar removal liquid spray, consider clay bars.
Steps to Apply a Tar Remover Solution
Many reputable brands offer tar remover solutions; you can choose any of those and utilise them. Here’s how to use them properly:
- First, you have to clean the area where the tar has been accumulated and remove dirt and debris.
- Now, grab the tar spray bottle and shake it well to mix the solution properly.
- Start by applying a minor quantity to a fresh microfibre cloth and rubbing the fabric without applying any extra force to the affected spot.
- After that, wait for a few minutes and let the solution do its work to weaken the residue. Wash with water and then use the cloth again to clean out and remove the tar from its place.
- Still got some tar left on the cars exterior? Don’t worry; repeat the same process and clean the area.
Tips to Protect the Car’s Paint
Before applying the tar remover chemical solution, here are some tips to help you avoid issues and keep the car in top condition.
- To keep the paint in its best condition, apply the tar remover in the quantity needed and avoid overusing it.
- Start with one spot at a time, and don’t let it stay for long.
- Once you’ve applied the tar remover, wipe it down, wash out the infected area with water, and allow it to dry.
- You can apply a wax sealant to add a layer of protection to the car’s paint. That’s how it will allow the easy removal of tar.
- Make a schedule and wash your car accordingly with a shampoo so the dirt gets away easily.
- Equip your car with mud flaps to keep the splashes and road tar away from its lower surface.
- Since newly constructed roads may contain more tar, avoiding driving through these areas is best.
- Don’t delay the tar removal if there are any spots on the car. Now you know how to do it!
Things to Avoid While Removing Tar
Removing tar is easy, but if you make mistakes, it can damage the car’s paint and exterior. So, avoiding these practices and playing safe with your car is best.
Don’t Use Wash Mitt
A wash mitt is an amazing tool for cleaning purposes, but not this time. When you try to remove the tar with a wash mitt, it’ll eventually get stuck on the cloth instead of being extracted, so avoid it by all means.
Don’t Rub with Microfibre Cloth
Yes! Don’t rub it with a dry microfiber cloth. Scrubbing creates friction, causing the tar to get stuck in place and messing with the paintwork.
The Bottom Line
All in all, your car is a valuable asset that you don’t want to put at risk. To avoid the struggles of tar removal, the best thing is to prevent it in the first place. If you’re travelling within the city or outstations, drive on the clear route with no recently paved roads. Moreover, don’t try anything on an experiment basis; otherwise, you’ll have to pay for the paintwork too.
