How do I remove tree sap from paint?

[theantiriced]

I parked under a tree a couple days ago and got some tree sap on my hood. I've tried to pick it off gently with my fingernail with little progress. What can I use to get it off safely without messing up my paint more than need be. By the way, my truck is black -Craig

[snappylips]

Originally Posted by theantiriced

By the way, my truck is black -Craig

Mine is too. I like to use hot water and a very soft sponge.

SL

[texas_fordlover]

Only downside is that it will strip any wax right off.

Or try a clay bar, if it doesn't work the rest of the vehicle will thank you.

Either way good luck to you

[RockyJSquirrel]

Mineral spirits. It will strip the wax also, but it won't affect the paint. Just dampen the corner of a rag and gently work it over the sap, allowing the mineral spirits time to dissolve it.

Don't try to pick off the sap with any sort of sharp tool because you will end up scratching the paint. Ask me how I know this.

[theantiriced]

Thanks for the help, it's much appreciated.

-Craig

[Ford Lariat]

Thanks too, I was never really sure. I once used rubbing alcohol and a paper towel on my 93, it came off but it seemed to 'stain' the paint where I applied it....

[Rinkrat]

my truck is covered with it.....clay bar will get most off...but the claybar will be all green and brown with it.

The harder stuff I just picked off with my fingers..no problems...it will not scratch the truck.

[PhantomPhixer]

You can try Goof Off which seems to take crud off well, probably less likely to damage anything.

[jcc]

Bug And Tar Remover Worked For Me

[DynamiteCandy]

my dad parked our lightning under a tree for like 2 weeks, i took it to get it waxed and buffed and most of it came off.

[tennessee fella]

When sap gets on your truck it really does suck, but what I found that works really well is Purple Clean, or a very small amount of rubbing achohol with hot water. Use a really soft cloth like one to wash fine china dishes with.