Removing bumper stickers from a car can leave a buildup of leftover adhesive on the paint, chrome or glass, but, with caution, you can remove bumper sticker adhesive without harming the underlying finish. A heat source will help you remove the printed portion of the sticker while mineral spirits will loosen the remaining adhesive buildup. Use caution with mineral spirits, odorless or otherwise, as they can irritate your eyes, skin and respiratory system.
Allow the car to sit in the hot sun for about an hour or hold a hair dryer a few inches away from the sticker and blow hot air onto it in small, circular motions for one to two minutes. The heat will increase the pliability of the sticker.
Peel the sticker slowly and gently by pulling a corner up with your fingernail. Remove as much of the sticker and adhesive as you can with your fingers.
Put on latex gloves, and dip a cotton ball in mineral spirits. Dab the cotton ball on an inconspicuous area of your vehicle to test the material's reaction. If mineral spirits harm the car's finish, switch to an adhesive remover, such as Goo Gone.
Use a cotton ball to apply mineral spirits to the leftover adhesive, and scrape the adhesive away with a rubber spatula. Repeat as needed until the adhesive disappears.
Wash the area with car soap and warm water, and apply car wax to a painted area if desired.
