Auto body repair & detailing: Residue removal on car door, tar, tree sap

Question
Hi,
I have a rav4, 2013.  It has a spot on it with some type of residue, I thought it might be sap, but I am not sure.  Anyway I tried to get it off with cold water and dishwasher soap, no effect.  Tried WD40 also no effect.  The spot is also rough to the touch.  Thoughts?

Thanks

Tom

Answer
Hi Tom,

Generally, contaminants are either waterbased or solvent based in nature. So if you have tried soap and water and there was no change you will need to try some type of solvent. I would recommend using a grease and wax remover or an adhesive remover.  Try something like one of the following:

Klean Strip Prep-All Wax & Grease Remover: http://www.repaintsupply.com/kleanstrip-esw362-prep-all-wax-and-grease-remover-p
3M 08987 General Purpose Adhesive Remover: http://www.repaintsupply.com/3m-08987-general-purpose-adhesive-cleaner-p579.html

If these won't remove it then most likely it will need sanded off.