It’s easy to find scores of people on social media complaining that the roads in their part of the country are the worst. Those same people likely complain about traffic and congestion when their town actually does something about the roads. But even if you’re a model citizen who never complains about anything, the tar associated with road construction will find a way to ruffle your feathers.
No matter how you drive or what kind of car you own, road tar will find a way (think Jeff Goldblum but in a yellow reflector vest) to stick to your paint. The sticky stuff is used to patch potholes and cracks and ends up adhering to tires, paint, wheels, and anything else in its way.
It turns out, removing the stuff isn’t rocket science. An hour or two and a good bit of elbow grease is enough to remedy your tar problem, and it’s a heck of a lot easier than losing your cool over road construction.
Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Skill Level: Beginner
Vehicle System: Exterior and paint
In the context of our roadways, tar is a black substance composed of a mixture of asphalt and water. Construction crews use the tar mixture to patch holes and cracks in the road surface, and due to its texture, it can be easily picked up by car tires and end up on paint, bumpers, and inside wheel wells. Beyond being an eyesore, tar can cause damage to your car’s paint through scratching or discoloration if left on too long. Additionally, tar can stiffen on tires and reduce performance.
Working on your car can be dangerous and messy, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to ensure you don’t die, get maimed, or lose a finger and that you keep your jeans, shirt, and skin spotless—hopefully.
Though road tar isn’t the most dangerous substance you could be working with, you may end up using chemicals and other products to remove it. Even if you feel like safety gear is uncool, think of your poor skin and eyes that will have to deal with the consequences of your negligence if something happens.
We’re not psychic, nor are we snooping through your toolbox or garage, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to get the job done.
Organizing your tools and gear so everything is easily reachable will save precious time. You’ll also need a flat workspace, such as a garage floor, driveway, or street parking that’s also well-ventilated. Check your local laws to make sure you’re not violating any codes when using the street because we aren’t getting your ride out of the clink.
Removing tar from your car’s paint isn’t a time-consuming process, nor is it remarkably difficult. Take your time and pay attention, and your car will be rolling tar free in no time.
a. If using peanut butter, spread it on the spots where tar is clinging to the paint. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Using a wet microfiber towel, begin carefully rubbing in circles to remove tar and residue.b. If using WD-40, spray some onto a towel and wipe carefully over the tar.c. If using a pre-packaged tar removal product or cleaner, follow directions on the package. It’s important that you don’t use too much or too little, as you could end up damaging your paint or not removing any tar.
For a little visual example, Scott from Dallas Paint Correction and Auto Detailing goes through a typical tar-removal job in this video.
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
A. Unfortunately, there isn’t a great way to prevent tar from sticking to your paint. If your car has a wrap or paint-protection film, you have a bit more wiggle room and may not see as much paint damage, but the reality is that tar sticks to almost everything it touches.
A. Yes. Over time, tar can pit and damage the paint underneath it. If you ignore it long enough, it’s even possible for the tar to cause discoloration. There’s also the possibility that rocks and other debris get stuck in the tar before it dries, which can chip and scratch your paint.
A. If you’re too busy or are otherwise unable to remove the tar yourself, you can pay a professional car wash or detailer to do the job. Many high-level auto detailers charge about $75 per hour, so you’re probably looking at $150 at the very least to have the car cleaned properly.
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