Everyday Household Items Remove Paint From Cars
You’ve finally found the perfect used SUV to fit your growing family, but when you drive off the lot you realize that the great deal you got is written in paint pen all over the car windows with bright, bold letters.
Or maybe you bought those fun window markers to pump up the team when they pile in your Suburban to carpool to the next travel ball game. But now the season is over and “Go Lions” is still written all over the windows. How are you going to get it off?
That paint all over your windshield will come off—don’t worry. There are a few different methods for this type of car maintenance that can be effective.
Related: Love a Clean Car But Don’t Want to Spend a Fortune? Car Detailing Made Easy!
Great. So, How Do We Remove It?
Depending on what you have on hand, you will be able to remove the paint marker from your car using the following:
- Soap and Water
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Lacquer Thinner
- Acetone or Nail Polish Remover
- White Vinegar
- WD-40
- Graffiti Remover
- Goo Gone
Each of these can be used to get that pesky paint marker off your car. Auto glass pros recommend cleaning the window surface as you typically would before you start working on removing the paint marker or paint pen.
If the paint is water-based, like the paint markers you can get from Crayola, soap and water will typically remove the paint with ease. For oil-based paint, you’ll likely need to use one of the more intense cleaning agents we listed above.
If you use acetone or lacquer thinner, the smell can be pretty strong. You may want to wear a mask and some rubber gloves, just in case. WD-40 works great to remove paint, but you’ll want to wash the WD-40 off with soap and water when you are finished removing the paint.
Related: Spring Cleaning: Have You Cleaned Your Car Lately?
What Types of Paint Can It Remove?
Permanent Marker
To remove Sharpie or any other permanent marker off your car, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover is usually the best way to get the marks off your car. Lacquer thinner will work for tougher jobs. Always be sure to rinse the cleaning agent off when you are finished removing paint or marker.
Paint Splatters and Window Paint
The same goes for exterior paint splatters as for window paint. Splattered paint can be an eyesore, but it’s not the end of the world. If it’s still wet, a simple hose-down might do the trick. For dried paint, try Goo Gone or WD-40.
If you’re dealing with water-based paint, grab a bucket of soapy water and a soft sponge. Gently scrub the paint, keeping the sponge wet to avoid scratching your car’s finish. For oil-based paint, you might need a commercial paint thinner—it’s smart to test a small, inconspicuous area first. Sometimes, removal can take some time and elbow grease.
Latex paint scrapes off easily, while road paint can be a tougher job.
Start with gentle methods like a mild dish soap solution and a soft cloth. If the marks persist, try rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Alternatively, you can also reach for a plastic razor blade or a soft brush to gently scrape it away. Remember to wax your car afterward for that extra layer of protection.
Related: 5 Car Maintenance Checklist Tips to Save You Time and Money
WD-40 Is a Paint Removal Hero
Yes, it does. WD-40 is a secret weapon against a variety of household mishaps, and it’s no different when it comes to car maintenance. Spray a little WD-40 on the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away. Sometimes, you may need to let it sit longer, but WD-40 can dissolve many types of paint without harming your car’s finish. It is petroleum-based, so be sure to wash it off with soap and water after removing paint from the car.
While WD-40 generally won’t harm your car, if you don’t wash it off, it can degrade auto body paint over time.
Related: Got Scratches and Chips in Your Car’s Paint? Here’s How to Help
But Really, What’s the Best Paint Remover for Cars?
For the ultimate paint removal, especially if dealing with a stubborn case, a clay bar can be a game-changer. This simple tool can pick up contaminants, including paint, from your car’s surface. Pair it with a lubricant, glide it over the affected area, and watch the paint vanish. Finish with a good waxing to protect your car’s finish.
Paint Remover Car Maintenance Pro Tips
Prevention is better than a cure. If you’re planning a painting project or the kids want to unleash their creativity, consider investing in a car cover. It acts as a shield, ensuring your car doesn’t become a blank canvas for their imaginations.
When practicing good car maintenance, avoid using harsh soaps or hard bristle scrubbers on your car. Never use metal brushes or steel wool.
Car paint mishaps can be handled with a bit of patience and the right tools. Life is messy, but our cars don’t have to be. So, the next time you’re faced with an unexpected paint job on your vehicle, grab your supplies, channel your inner DIYer, and restore that shine.
Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!
