Dish Soap and Water:
1. Scrape Off Excess Sap: Use a plastic scraper or credit card to gently remove as much sap as you can without scratching the paint. Be careful not to dig into the paint.
2. Soak with Soap and Water: Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water. Use a mild dishwashing liquid or a car wash soap.
3. Apply Soapy Solution: Dip a soft sponge or microfiber towel into the soapy water and apply it to the area with sap. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the sap.
4. Scrub Gently: Use a clean, soft cloth or a gentle scrub pad to scrub the sap in circular motions. Avoid using harsh materials like steel wool or abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the paint.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the area with clean water to remove the soapy residue. Use a clean, damp towel to dry the area.
Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol):
1. Test on an Inconspicuous Spot: Before using rubbing alcohol on the affected area, test it on an inconspicuous spot on the car's paint to ensure it does not cause damage.
2. Apply Rubbing Alcohol: Dip a cotton ball or a clean, soft cloth into rubbing alcohol.
3. Rub the Sap: Gently rub the cotton ball or cloth over the sap in circular motions. The rubbing alcohol should help dissolve the sap.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
Vegetable/Canola Oil:
1. Apply Oil: Apply a few drops of vegetable oil or canola oil to a clean, soft cloth.
2. Rub the Sap: Gently rub the oil onto the sap in circular motions. The oil will help loosen and dissolve the sap.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the oil to sit on the sap for a few minutes.
4. Wipe Off: Wipe off the oil and the loosened sap with a clean, soft cloth.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
Commercial Tree Sap Remover:
1. Select a Suitable Product: Choose a commercial tree sap remover specifically designed for automotive use. Read the product instructions carefully before applying it to the car's paint.
2. Apply the Remover: Apply a small amount of the tree sap remover to the affected area using a clean, soft cloth.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the remover to sit for the recommended amount of time as per the product instructions.
4. Wipe Off: Gently wipe off the remover and the loosened sap with a clean, soft cloth.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
After removing tree sap, it is important to inspect the paint for any damage. If you find scratches or other damage, you may need to polish or repair the affected areas.
