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We’re here to answer the most common questions about our roadway and parking lot services. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact our team.

Did you get roadway paint on your car? Here’s how to remove it

We’ve all been there—you’re driving along and suddenly realize you’ve accidently driven over fresh roadway paint. Don’t panic! While it may look like a tough mess, water-based traffic paint can usually be removed safely with the right steps. Here’s how:

Step 1: Act Quickly

The sooner you clean the paint, the easier it will come off. Once it fully cures, removal becomes much more difficult.

Step 2: Soak with Warm, Soapy Water

Wash the affected area with warm water and a mild detergent. Let it soak for several minutes to help soften the paint.

Step 3: Use a High-Pressure Rinse

A pressure washer or car wash sprayer can help break loose traffic paint before it hardens. Avoid scrubbing at this stage to prevent scratching. If the pressure car wash does not remove the road stripe paint from your vehicle, we recommend that once the car has dried from the pressure washing, that you spray the paint residue with WD-40 and allow the WD-40 to stay on the area for 1-2 hours, which should penetrate the paint. After that time, re-wash the car with a pressure wash. You may need to repeat this process if there is a heavy concentration of paint..

Step 4: Gently Scrub with a Soft Brush or Cloth

If paint remains, lightly scrub using a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive pads or steel wool, which can damage your clear coat.

Step 5: Apply a Safe Cleaning Agent if Needed

For stubborn spots, apply a tar/bug remover or clay bar product made for automotive surfaces. These help lift paint without harming your finish.

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly and Inspect

Rinse again with clean water and inspect the area. Repeat steps if necessary until the paint is gone.

Step 7: Protect the Surface

Once the paint is removed, apply a fresh coat of wax or sealant to protect your car’s finish.

⚠️ Important Note:

  • Do not use harsh chemicals, lacquer thinner, or razor blades — they can permanently damage your paint.

  • If large amounts of traffic paint are stuck on the vehicle’s undercarriage or wheel wells, a professional cleaning service may be required.

PAINT REMOVAL FROM WHEEL WELLS

This can be very difficult because most wheel wells are normally a flat finish. We recommend applying a generous amount of Vaseline to the area and leave it on for several days and then pressure wash. This should help remove most of the paint.

If the Vaseline and pressure wash does not completely remove the road paint from the wheel well, try using an alcohol like rubbing alcohol. Apply to the paint area in the wheel well. This can help soften and remove any residue left after the Vaseline procedure is completed. As above, DO NOT SCRUB the wheel well. Just apply with a very wetted rag or sponge. When working with alcohol or any flammable material, please always exercise extreme caution, use safety gear, and use in a well-ventilated area, for your protection.