How to Remove Decals and Stickers on Autos

Whether you just bought a used car and want to remove stickers on the windshield or you are having second thoughts about the bumper sticker you just put on your car, there are several ways to remove decals and stickers that will not harm your auto. The methods you can use to do this require patience and a few easy to find products. This article will explain how to remove decals and stickers on autos.

Things You'll Need

  • Blow dryer
  • Razor blade or plastic scraper
  • "Goo Gone" or other solvent
  • "ScratchX" or other mark eliminator
  • Peel the sticker off slowly and gently so as not to tear the film. It is best to try this on a warm sunny day because the heat will soften the adhesive.

  • Use a blow dryer to heat the adhesive on the decal or sticker. Hold the blow dryer a few inches away from the decal and keep it on low heat. Keep an eye on the paint under the heat of the blow dryer to make sure it does not get damaged.

  • Use a product called "Goo Gone" or another brand of similar-acting solvent to remove stubborn sticker bits or adhesive that will not come off. If it doesn't come off immediately, you may want to leave the solution on for a few minutes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Use a razor blade carefully to remove stubborn stickers or decals on glass. Be careful with the razor blade so as not to cut yourself and never use a razor blade on the painted surface of your auto as it will damage the paint.

  • Use a plastic scraper to remove decals and stickers on autos but be careful not to damage the finish.

  • Use a mild polishing compound such as a swirl mark eliminator. Mark Allen of "Popular Mechanics" suggests "Meguiar's ScratchX" to remove small scratches. You can also use a cleaner wax to shine the surface after removing the sticker.