How to Remove Tar from Car
How to Remove Tar from Car

HOW TO REMOVE TAR FROM CAR


What You Need

Driving on freshly paved roads or through construction zones can leave behind sticky black spots on your vehicle. Often called "tar," this material is actually asphalt—a petroleum-based substance commonly used as a binding agent in road construction.

As vehicles drive over newly paved surfaces, small amounts of asphalt can be transferred onto paint, wheels, and lower body panels. If left untreated, tar can harden over time, making it more difficult to remove and potentially affecting the appearance of your vehicle's finish.

Avoid scraping tar with abrasive tools or using harsh chemicals that could damage paint. And while peanut butter is a common household hack for removing tar, it's messy and not always effective.

Simple Green Max Automotive is a non-abrasive formula designed to remove tough automotive soils, including tar, asphalt residue, oil, grease, mud, and brake dust, without harming painted surfaces when used as directed.

Directions for Removing Tar From Your Car's Exterior:

Tip: When in doubt about a surface, always spot test in an inconspicuous area first.

Caution: Avoid contact with eyes. Wear eye protection if there is a risk of splashing. Do not use the product on or near asphalt surfaces. For best results, work in a cool, shaded area and on surfaces that are cool to the touch.

  1. Wash car. Begin by washing your vehicle with car wash soap and water to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Rinse thoroughly and dry the affected areas.
  2. Apply cleaner. Spray Simple Green Max Automotive directly onto the tar spots. Allow the product to sit for 30 seconds to 1 minute to help soften the tar. Do not allow the product to dry on the surface.
  3. Wipe tar. Using a clean microfiber cloth, gently wipe the treated area. For stubborn buildup, reapply the product and continue wiping until the tar is removed.
  4. Rinse surface. Rinse the treated area thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining product and residue.
  5. Dry vehicle. Dry the surface with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
  6. Apply wax (optional). Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a quality automotive wax, sealant, or ceramic protection to help restore protection and make future cleanup easier.
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