How to Remove Glue Residue From Car Paint

Glue residue is stubborn to remove from many surfaces, but the painted surface of your car is a delicate matter. Many methods of removing glue residue damage the car's paint. Whether your car has a clear coat on top or a single-stage paint job with the color and clear mixed, some glue residue removal options will damage them both. The paint-safe method is straightforward and very safe for your car's paint, though it does require elbow grease.

Things You'll Need

  • Car soap
  • Water
  • Sponge
  • Automotive adhesive remover
  • Microfiber towels
  • Car polish
  • Wash the glue residue with car soap and warm water. Work a sponge over the area in small circles to loosen the glue. Remove most of the residue in this step. Rinse the area and let it dry completely.

  • Wet a small area of the microfiber towel with automotive adhesive remover. Apply the remover to the glue residue and work it in small, circular motions to get it off the car. Apply more remover as needed until the residue is gone.

  • Apply a small amount of car polish to a clean microfiber towel. Work the polish over the area where the residue previously sat. The polish is slightly abrasive and removes the small film of leftover glue residue. Use a dry side of the towel to buff the area by hand.