Getting the hard stuff off

N

Neophyte

New member
I've got the basics of cleaning my cars pretty much figured out. Now I want to improve on getting the especially hard types of dirt and contaminents off, specifically bugs, tar, brake dust and hard water spots. Actually, in this topic thread, I'd mostly like to look at bugs, since they're the most common problem.



I've seen products specifically for removing bugs. I've read that some people use denatured alcohol (ethanol which has been mixed with some methanol or other alcohol to make it non-drinkable), mineral spirits, or rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol).



I'm hesitant to use ethanol (denatured) alcohol or mineral spirits on my car's finish, because they are powerful solvents. They will dissolve many types of plastics and paints, for example, although I don't know about automotive paint finishes. I'd hate to find out the hard way.



However, no matter what products I've tried so far, it always seems to come down to using some elbow grease. This does not seem like a good idea to me, grinding little bug bits against my paint!



So, what are your preferred methods, chemicals and products for getting those baked-on, squashed bugs off your hood, bumper, mirrors, etc.?
 
And I'm sure you don't want to hear it, but.....



Do a SEARCH on this topic and you'll find lots of answers. I did a SEARCH just using the words "bugs" and came up with 15 pages of posts dating back over a year. Not all of them were about bug removal but the point is there's been many discussions about techniques and tools to do this very job.



Also check out the Detailing Articles in the left column on the Main Home Page. David B has written about this and has specific info on how to remove the residue from bug guts.
 
Definately do a search. You will find some helpful information that way. I would say a good place to start in removing most of that stuff would be a good ol' clay bar. Then you will find broducts specifically made for taking off bugs, tar, etc... Good Luck!
 
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