Car dealership decals can be unattractive and unpleasant to the eye.
I don’t like any kind of sticker on my vehicle.
You may want to remove them to give your car a cleaner look.
However, it’s essential to remove them carefully to avoid damaging your vehicle’s paint. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove a car dealership decal from your car.
Materials Required
- Hairdryer or heat gun
- Plastic razor blade or credit card
- Any Adhesive remover
- Microfiber cloth
- Car washing soap and water
Step 1: Park in a Shaded Area
It’s best to work on removing the decal in a shaded area to prevent the adhesive from drying too quickly.
Step 2: Heat the Decal
Use a hairdryer or heat gun to warm the decal gently. Hold the heat source a few inches away from the decal and move it back and forth to evenly heat the adhesive behind it.
Step 3: Peel Off the Decal
Once the decal is warmed up, use a plastic razor blade or a credit card to carefully lift the edge of the decal. Start from one corner and slowly peel it off, applying more heat if needed.
Step 4: Remove Residue
After peeling off the decal, there may still be adhesive residue left on the surface of the car. Apply a small amount of any adhesive remover onto a microfiber cloth and gently rub the residue until it lifts off.
Note: You can also use a small amount of car spray polish instead of adhesive remover.
Step 5. Clean the Area
Wash the area where the decal was removed with car washing soap and water to remove any remaining adhesive remover or dirt.
Step 6: Dry and Wax
Once the area is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth. You may also want to apply a coat of wax to protect the paint and give it a polished finish.
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FAQs
Can I use other methods to remove the decal?
While there are other methods such as using a razor blade or adhesive remover alone, using heat is generally safer for your car’s paint.
Will removing the decal damage my paint?
If done correctly using the steps outlined above, removing the decal should not damage your paint. However, be cautious not to scratch the paint with the razor blade or apply too much heat for too long.
What if the decal is old and stubborn to remove?
Older decals may be more challenging to remove, but patience and persistence can often yield success. You may need to apply more heat and gently work the decal off in small sections. Additionally, using a stronger adhesive remover or repeating the process may help loosen the stubborn adhesive.
Can I remove a decal in cold weather?
While it’s preferable to remove decals in warmer temperatures, it is still possible to do so in colder weather. However, you may need to apply more heat and work more slowly to loosen the adhesive. Be cautious not to use excessive force, as cold temperatures can make the adhesive more brittle and prone to causing paint damage.
Can I use household products like vinegar or rubbing alcohol to remove the decal?
While household products like vinegar or rubbing alcohol can sometimes be effective at removing adhesive residue, they may also damage your car’s paint if not used carefully. It’s generally safer to use products specifically designed for removing adhesive, such as Goo Gone, to avoid any potential damage to the paint.
Conclusion
Removing a car dealership decal from your car can be done safely and effectively with the right tools and techniques.
By following these steps carefully, you can restore your car’s appearance without causing any damage to the paint. Remember to take your time and be patient throughout the process to achieve the best results.
