You've probably seen a ton of videos where people's cars are vandalised. Suppose it happens to your car? You walk to your vehicle and find it scribbled with graffiti. Do you have an idea about removing spray paint from a car?
On top of your mind would probably be to bring your car to a professional car wash service or get it repainted. Either of those fixes would be too expensive. What if I told you it's possible to remove spray paint from your car without parting with too much cash? There are DIY procedures that are simple to follow and execute.
NOTE: If you wait until the paint dries, removing it using simple materials like soap and water can prove to be quite tricky. So you need to act quickly.
How Hard Is It To Remove Spray Paint From A Car?
Removing spray paint from a car is easy. The trick is acting fast before the paint dries up. You can effectively remove the graffiti without damaging the vehicle. You only need to be gentle. It is also essential to keep checking whether the car's paint is coming off as you scrub the graffiti off.
What Are Some Methods Of Removing Spray Paint?
1. Using Soap and Water
This method is most effective when the spray paint is still fresh. All types of spray paint dry out within 24 hours. Of course, it can be tough telling the exact time your car got sprayed on. The best thing to do would be to inspect the sprayed spot. If the paint appears wet, then soap and water will work.
You will need:
- A bucket of clean water or hose
- Clean rags or towels
- Soap
First, fill the bucket with warm water. Add enough soap. Ensure you mix it properly.
Next, wet the rag or towel with the soapy water. Using circular motions, scrub off the spray paint. To avoid spreading the spray paint to other areas, scrub from the edges and move inwards.
Frequently rinse the cloth so that you will know whether the procedure is working. After the paint is removed, clean and dry the spot.
2. Using Nail Polish Remover
You can use nail polish remover to rid your car of spray paint. There is a downside to this method: you may end up removing the car's paint. If you notice your car's paint getting distorted, stop! This indicates that the clear coat has worn down.
You will need:
- Clean rag or towel
- Nail polish remover – preferably non-acetone
The first step is to dab the non-acetone nail polish remover on the rag or towel. Scrub the paint off in circular motions using the cloth.
Repeat the procedure until you rid the car of the stain completely. You will need to use different parts of the cloth. Doing so will help you clean faster. It will also help you monitor the progress.
Once the graffiti is removed, properly rinse with soap and water because any residual nail polish remover may start wearing away the vehicle’s top layer paint.
3. Using gasoline
You can also remove spray paint from your car using gasoline. It is affordable and also readily available. Gasoline can remove various paints from surfaces. However, you should use it with caution. Gasoline can damage your car’s exterior if used improperly or allowed to soak on the car’s surface.
You will need:
- A clean rag or towel
- Gasoline
Apply gasoline on the rag or towel. Test on a small area to establish how gasoline will react with the vehicle’s paint. If it removes the car’s clear coat, discontinue the procedure. If it doesn't, rub the affected part in a circular motion. As usual, start from the edge towards the centre of the spray paint.
After you're done, clean the surface with soapy water to remove any trace of gasoline.
4. Using Clay Bar
Clay bar is not only useful but is also safe for your car. If you need a process that will also protect the vehicle's paint, this is the best option. The downside, however, is that the clay bar is expensive.
You will need:
- Clay bar kit or
- Clay bar, rag or towel, and lubricant
You will need a clay bar. Cut a small piece and mould the cut piece into a flat circular shape.
Spray the lubricant on one side of the moulded clay. Using the lubricated side, scrub the paint. Use moderate pressure. Be firm as you clean off the paint.
Once the paint is removed, clean the part using a towel or clean rag.
Will WD40 Get Spray Paint Off A Car?
We hear this question all too often from car owners.
The answer is yes.
Every time another car gets too close to yours and rubs off some paint, WD40 will come in handy. Just spray the affected part with WD40. Leave it for 1 to 2 hours then wash the surface with water. Repeat the procedure until the stain is removed.
Remember to apply wax on the affected part. Small abrasions can be caused by rubbing when removing spray paint. Using wax helps to cover the abrasions. It also protects your car’s paint.
This information is brought to you by Carpart.com.au – Australia's leading car part website and automotive blog. You may also use its Car Part Finder to help you locate sellers of auto parts that you may need in the future. Request an auto part now!
By Eric Anyega