So, you’re considering selling your used car, but a few bumper stickers and decals remain. You’ve taken good care of your car and maintained it as best as possible, but now, you’re hoping to clean it up before you sell it. However, removing the stickers without ruining the car paint seems daunting. Wondering how to get stickers off car paint? Stick around to learn some helpful tips on safely removing bumper stickers and decals from your car!
Everything You Need to Know About Removing Bumper Stickers and Decals from Your Used Car
1. Preparing Your Car
Before you start removing any stickers or decals, make sure that you park your car in a shady and cool area. Bumper stickers can get hot if your car is parked under direct sunlight, making them more difficult to remove. To make sticker removal easier, grab a bottle of warm water and a sponge and thoroughly clean the area around the sticker. This will help to soften the sticker, making it easier to peel off. Additionally, you may also want to prepare some rubbing alcohol to help remove any residue that may be left.
2. Removing the Sticker
Once the sticker softens, you can begin removing it. You can try using your fingers to peel it off carefully. Ensure you’re pulling at an angle, not straight up, to prevent any paint from coming up with it. If the sticker does not come off easily, use a plastic scraper, plastic knife, or credit card. These items will not scratch the paint. If the sticker is still difficult to remove, use a heat gun or hairdryer at a low temperature to soften it up. Again, ensure the surface does not get too hot, or the paint could be damaged.
3. Removing Residue
Even after removing a sticker, residual glue or adhesive may be left on the car. To remove this, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a clean rag and gently rub the area. Another option is using a specialized adhesive remover. Apply the adhesive remover with a clean rag and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a plastic scraper to remove it.
4. Cleaning and Protecting the Paint
After you remove all bumper stickers and decals, wash the car with soap and warm water. After it dries, apply wax or a paint sealant to prevent any damage to the paint. The wax or sealant will also protect your car’s surface from scratches and help to repel dirt.
5. Seeking Expert Help
If you’re still wondering how to get stickers off car paint or are about removing decals, you may want to take your vehicle to a professional detailer. A detailer will have the expertise and tools to safely remove stickers without ruining the paint.
Removing bumper stickers and decals from your used car can be easy if you follow the steps above. Be patient and use the right tools; your car will look as good as new. If you’re in the Phoenix, AZ, area and the market for a new, used car, don’t hesitate to contact Auto Action. We offer a wide range of pre-owned vehicles at competitive prices. Visit our website or stop by one of our locations today.