Tar Spots? No Problem! Follow These Steps

Tar spots can be tough to remove, but with the right method, your paint will be spotless again.

Step 1: Wash the Car

First, we start with a proper wash. That means going through the full process—pre-wash, iron remover, and shampoo. Once the car is clean, we dry it completely so we can clearly see what we’re working with. (Check out our drying guide HERE.)

Step 2: Apply Tar and Glue Remover

Now it’s time to tackle the tar. Since tar and glue removers are solvent-based, they work best on a dry surface.

1. Spray the tar and glue remover directly onto the tar spots.
2. Let it sit for a couple of minutes so it can break down the tar.
3. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 3: Check the Results

Step back and take a look. If your car has a good protective coating, the tar spots might already be gone.

But let’s be real—some tar spots can be really stubborn. If there are still some left:

1. Spray a bit more tar remover directly on the affected area.
2. Apply a small amount onto a microfiber towel.
3. Gently wipe the spots away—avoid circular motions, as tar can contain tiny hard particles that could scratch the paint. Just wipe in straight lines, and they should come right off.

Step 4: Protect the Paint

Now that the car is clean, it’s time for protection! Applying a protective layer will make sure tar spots don’t stick as hard next time. We recommend Hercules Ceramic Spray Sealant—quick, easy, and gives you solid protection.