Automotive Tar Removers

The automotive tar remover is a powerful tool that can help you remove stubborn layers of car paint and wax. It's also perfect for removing oil, grease, and other contaminants from your vehicle. Simply apply the automotive tar remover to the area you want to clean and wait until it starts working its magic. Then use a cloth or sponge to scrub away the dirt, grime, and residue.

Top Products

Best Overall

Why We Like

  • Safe for all glossy surfaces
  • Concentrated formula
  • Pre-wash saves time and energy

Minor Problems

  • It might contain harmful chemicals.
Editor's Choice

Why We Like

  • Microactive Cleaning Technology
  • Tarminator specifically for tar and sap removal
  • Safe for clearcoats
  • unlike most harsh chemicals

Minor Problems

  • It might not work on all surfaces.
Best Value

Why We Like

  • Cleans Bugs, Tar and Bird Droppings
  • streak-free formula
  • Preserves wax protection
  • Safe for exterior finishes when used as directed
  • Can be used on soils

Minor Problems

  • The scent might not be to everyone's liking.
1/20
Chemical Guys CWS_104_16 Concentrated Bug and Tar Remover Car Wash Soap (Works with Foam Cannons, Foam Guns or Bucket Washes) Safe for Cars, Trucks, M
9.1
Based On 4236 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.5
  • Value for money
    9.7
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.3

Pros

  • Safe for all glossy surfaces
  • Concentrated formula
  • Pre-wash saves time and energy

Cons

  • It might contain harmful chemicals.
2/20
Stoner Car Care 91154 10-Ounce Tarminator Tar, Sap, and Asphalt Remover Safe on Automotive Paint and Chrome on Cars, Trucks, RVs, Motorcycles, and Boa
8.8
Based On 3981 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.8
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.7

Pros

  • Microactive Cleaning Technology
  • Tarminator specifically for tar and sap removal
  • Safe for clearcoats
  • unlike most harsh chemicals

Cons

  • It might not work on all surfaces.
3/20
Extreme Tire Shine Spray by Armor All, Tire Shine for Restoring Color and Tire Protection, 15 Oz
8.8
Based On 2369 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.8
  • Value for money
    9.5
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.7

Pros

  • Cleans Bugs, Tar and Bird Droppings
  • streak-free formula
  • Preserves wax protection
  • Safe for exterior finishes when used as directed
  • Can be used on soils

Cons

  • The scent might not be to everyone's liking.
4/20
3D Bug Remover - All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic, Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Safe on Ca
9.1
Based On 1520 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.5
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.3

Pros

  • All-purpose cleaner
  • No scrubbing
  • Easy spray and rinse
  • Safe on car paint, wax & clear coats
  • Excellent choice for cars, RV's, boats, semi-trucks, motorcycles, and home or office use

Cons

  • The smell might not be so good.
5/20
McKee's 37 Road Kill Bug Scrubber, (2 Pack)

McKee's 37 Road Kill Bug Scrubber, (2 Pack)

prime
prime
Check Price Now
Add to Wishlist
Compare
9.5
Based On 845 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.7
  • Value for money
    9.7
  • Customer support
    9
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.5

Pros

  • Honey-comb design
  • Traps bugs and foreign particles
  • Reusable hundreds or even thousands of times
  • Easily removes dirt and grime
  • Soaks in a bucket of warm soapy water

Cons

  • The material might not be very durable.
6/20
CARPRO TarX Tar & Adhesive Remover - 500mL Spray Bottle - Splatter & Stain Removal Auto Care - Degreaser - Bugs, Sap, & Bird Droppings - Automotive De
9.1
Based On 672 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.5
  • Value for money
    9.7
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.3

Pros

  • Fast Reaction Time
  • Made from Orange Peel Extract
  • Non-Chlorinated Solvents
  • Preferred and Used by Pros

Cons

  • It may leave a residue.
7/20
Formula 1 Bug and Tar Remover - Sap, Tar, Dirt & Bug Remover Car Detailing - Powerful Car Cleaner - Exterior Care Products Won’t Scratch Paint (16 oz)
8.3
Based On 651 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.4
  • Value for money
    9.4
  • Customer support
    7
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.2

Pros

  • Removes Bugs, Tar & More
  • Auto-cleaning spray
  • Cleans cars

Cons

  • It might contain harmful chemicals.
8/20
Rain-X 620107 Bug and Tar Defense Pre-Wash Gel, 16 fl. oz, 1 Pack
9.0
Based On 576 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.3
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.1

Pros

  • Safe for use on all exterior metal, glass and plastic surfaces
  • No scrubbing required - just spray on, let the formula soak, and wash away
  • Ideal for cleaning your vehicle after long road trips
  • Remove tough stains quickly and easily

Cons

  • It leaves a residue.
9/20
Lifter-1 Bug & Tar Removers Tough Bugs and Tar from Automobiles, 16.0 ounces
8.8
Based On 355 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.8
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.7

Pros

  • Safe for use on automotive paint
  • Variety of uses
  • Quick and simple

Cons

  • It may not work on all types of tar.
10/20
GYEON quartz Q²M Tar 500 ml - Safe and Effective Rubber and Tar Remover - Ideal for Post Track Day Cleaning - Quick and Effective Adhesive Remover
9.5
Based On 240 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.7
  • Value for money
    9.8
  • Customer support
    9
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.5

Pros

  • Safe car cleaner
  • Bodywork safe
  • Does not affect exterior surfaces

Cons

  • It smells bad.
11/20
Adam's Car Bug Remover Combo - Car Detailing All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic, Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, W
9.5
Based On 222 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.7
  • Value for money
    9.7
  • Customer support
    9
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.5

Pros

  • Remove remnants before washing
  • Safe on painted surfaces
  • Safe on plastic bumpers and glass

Cons

  • The smell is too strong.
12/20
Evo Dyne Bug Remover for Car Detailing (32 fl oz Per Bottle), Made in the USA - Car Interior Cleaner Removes Tar, Droppings, Guts, Dirt, Grease | Ulti
8.6
Based On 183 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.6
  • Value for money
    9.4
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.4

Pros

  • Remove tar and guts with ease
  • Fast acting results
  • Full strength cleaner
  • Softens & dissolves road tar

Cons

  • Some people might not like the strong citrus smell.
13/20
CAR CARE HAVEN Tar Cleaner (32oz Sprayer)-Auto Maintenance: Exterior Spot Cleaner for Cars, Bike, Truck! Eliminate Dirt, RV-Tar, Goo, Road Grime, Gunk
8.7
Based On 149 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.6
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.4

Pros

  • Tar cleaner
  • Easy to use sponge
  • Removes tar

Cons

  • Some people might find the smell offensive.
14/20
Gunk TR1 Tar-N-Bug Remover - 12 oz, Blue

Gunk TR1 Tar-N-Bug Remover - 12 oz, Blue

Check Price Now
Add to Wishlist
Compare
8.9
Based On 111 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.0
  • Value for money
    9.6
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.9

Pros

  • Made in United States
  • Package Dimensions: 6.604 L x 20.066 H x 6.604 W (centimeters)
  • Package Weight: 1.0 pounds
  • Included components: Unit, Instruction Guide

Cons

  • It might not be effective.
15/20
Car Gods Tar Dissolver and Glue Residue Remover 17fl Oz 500ml Paintwork Cleaner Full Strength Formula Softens Dissolves Safe to Use with Waxes Coating
8.2
Based On 109 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.2
  • Value for money
    9.5
  • Customer support
    7
  • Overall satisfaction
    8

Pros

  • Tar Dissolver
  • Removes tar and other harsh contaminants
  • Effective against adhesives

Cons

  • The bottle might break.
16/20
MILWAUKEE MUSCLE Ceramic Grime and Tar Remover Spray - 24 Fl Oz - Wheel Cleaner for Cars - Auto Detailing Supplies - RV - Motorcycle - Boat
8.7
Based On 29 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.8
  • Value for money
    9.3
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.7

Pros

  • Cleaner
  • Adds ceramic protection
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • It may not be effective in removing dirt or tar.
17/20
SGCB 16oz Tar Remover for Cars, 500ml Safe Road Tar Asphalt Remover Effective Adhesive Remover Cleaner | Quick Eliminate Grime Sap Gum Glue Rubber Str
8.9
Based On 24 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.0
  • Value for money
    9.7
  • Customer support
    8
  • Overall satisfaction
    8.9

Pros

  • High security grade guarantee
  • Safe and protective tar removal solution for your car cleaning needs
  • solvent-based, safe and Protective on exterior surfaces

Cons

  • The smell isn't so good.
18/20
CarMagic Bug Remover - Heavy Duty Cleaner | Instant Bug & Grime Remover | Perfect for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, Boat | USA Made (32oz Spray Bottle (S
7.5
Based On 25 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    7.4
  • Value for money
    9.4
  • Customer support
    6
  • Overall satisfaction
    7.2

Pros

  • Powerful natural enzymes
  • Fast-acting formula
  • Cleans quickly and easily

Cons

  • It may cause a bad odor.
19/20
McKee's 37 MK37-301 Tar Max Remover, 128 oz.

McKee's 37 MK37-301 Tar Max Remover, 128 oz.

prime
prime
Check Price Now
Add to Wishlist
Compare
8.2
Based On 22 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    8.2
  • Value for money
    9.5
  • Customer support
    7
  • Overall satisfaction
    8

Pros

  • Tar removal
  • Clear coat safe
  • Advanced formulation

Cons

  • It might take a long time to remove the tar.
20/20
Safe Scrub Bug & Tar Pad - 12 Pack

Safe Scrub Bug & Tar Pad - 12 Pack

Check Price Now
Add to Wishlist
Compare
9.5
Based On 15 Reviews
  • Easy to use
    9.9
  • Value for money
    9.3
  • Customer support
    9
  • Overall satisfaction
    9.7

Pros

  • 100% Safe
  • Can be used on many surfaces
  • Size - 5"x3"x3"

Cons

  • It may not be effective in getting rid of bugs and tar.

Authors

Allen Stevens
Allen Stevens— Author

Allen Stevens is a writer on our Website. He is experienced in Car Care section.

What to Look to have the Best Automotive Tar Removers?

What is the best tar remover for vehicles?

If you're looking for a general-purpose tar removal product, WD-40 can be relied on to do the job. Goo Gone is specifically designed for tar and road goo removal, so it's ideal if you have any kind of difficult or stubborn substance stuck to your car.

Remember to use caution when using these products - they can contain harmful chemicals that could damage your vehicle

Will Goo Gone remove tar?

Goo Gone Automotive Goo & Sticker Remover can help remove tar from surfaces. Dilute as needed for best results, and be sure to wear gloves when using this product - it is safe to use on all surfaces.

Hassle-free tar removal with Goo Gone - get the job done right the first time.

Does WD-40 Remove tar from car?

WD-40 can help remove tar from your car. To use it, apply it to a clean cloth and gently wipe away the tar spots. If you have any trouble removing the tar, be sure to use the right amount of WD-40 and shoulder the responsibility for fixing things yourself.

Does clay bar remove tar?

Clay bar application can be helpful in removing tar from surfaces. After the clay bar is applied, use a tar remover to remove any remaining tar. Rust spots may remain after the removal of tar; however, clay's abrasive properties will help cleanse and restore the area

Is there a difference between Goo Gone and Goo Gone Automotive?

Goo Gone Automotive is a specific type of Goo Gone that won't damage paint and comes in a can. It contains alcohol, so be careful not to get it on your car's finish or windows.

Make sure the product you're using is called Goo Gone Automotive if you want to avoid damaging surfaces

How do you make your own tar remover?

To make your own tar remover, start by spreading a thick layer of peanut butter on the stained surface. Let the tar stain sit for 10 minutes to allow the peanut butter to absorb any residue.

Rubbing in circles will remove all the residue.

Can I use diesel to remove tar?

If you want to remove tar from your car using diesel fuel, wear protective gloves and apply the solution quickly. Let it set for a minute before wiping off any excess with a cloth or sponge.

Keep your distance from the car while working so as not to create sparks or heat that could ignite the tar removal fluid

What is a solvent for tar?

Acetone is a common solvent used for tar removal. Dichloromethane can be more efficient than acetone, but it has a strong smell and may cause environmental damage if not properly cleaned up.

Anisole or methoxybenzene are both good solvents for removing tar from surfaces, but they have weaker smells and tend to be less effective when it comes to extracting all the components of the tar.

Does acetone remove tar?

Acetone is a common solvent that can be used to remove tar spots and glue residue from surfaces. It's important to use caution when using acetone, as it can also damage surfaces if not handled properly.

For permanent marker removal, acetone should be diluted with water before application in order to avoid damaging the surface permanently

Does tar and bug remover hurt paint?

Bug and tar remover can be used to clean both exterior and interior surfaces. Use caution when working with this product, as it may contain vapors that could harm your health.

Always follow all safety instructions carefully to avoid any potential damage to your paint job.

Conclusion

There are a number of different automotive tar removers on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for your car. Some tar removal products work better than others, so it’s important to test out several before choosing the best one for your vehicle. There are also some precautions that you should take when using an automotive tar removal product, so make sure to read the instructions carefully before starting.