How Do I Get Dried Bugs Off My Car?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Consider using a bug eraser with soapy water or a dedicated bug remover to remove dried bugs from your car’s paint easily. These options help avoid scratching the paint while effectively removing stubborn bugs. Try Schaeffer’s Citral, a citrus-based degreaser that effortlessly eliminates bug guts without harming the paint, for a super easy and safe method. Remember to let the chemicals do the work, and don’t rely on elbow grease to prevent scratches. After bug removal, apply a protective sealant or wax to shield your car’s paint from future encounters.

Tips for Bug Removal

Here are some quick tips for dealing with bugs in your car:

1. Act Fast: Remove bugs when they hit your car to prevent them from baking on the surface.
2. Prep the Area: Spray an all-purpose cleaner, bug remover, or car shampoo on the affected area before washing to give it extra time to soak in and soften the bugs.
3. Let Chemicals Do the Work: Avoid using excessive elbow grease; instead, let bug removers and cleaners dissolve the bugs to prevent scratches and hazing.

Materials Needed

For dealing with dried bugs, you’ll need the following materials:

• All-purpose cleaner or pre-soak soap
• Normal car wash shampoo
• Bug remover or bug eraser
• Sealant or wax for paint protection

Methods to Remove Dried Bugs:

1. Full Car Wash Method

   • Best for thorough bug removal during a complete car wash.
   • Apply an all-purpose cleaner, bug remover, or shampoo on the affected area before washing the car.
   • Let the chemicals soak in and soften the bugs.
   • Gently wash the car, allowing the chemicals to do the work.
   • Use a bug eraser or sponge for more stubborn bugs.
   • Flip the eraser or sponge to a clean side when it gets loaded with bugs.
   • Rinse the car thoroughly to reveal a bug-free surface.

2. Quick Bug Removal Method

   • Suitable for spot treatment or when a full car wash is not possible.
   • Apply a dedicated bug remover on the front or affected area.
   • Follow the product’s directions for the best results.
   • Stoner’s Bug Eraser is an excellent option, already infused with detergents and softeners.
   • Dunk the eraser in soapy water for high lubricity.
   • Gently scrub the bugs, allowing the chemicals to break them down.
   • Flip to a clean side of the eraser as needed to avoid rubbing bugs remaining on the surface.

The Citral Degreaser Method

1. Inspect the Bugs: Look closely at your car’s paint and identify the areas with bug splatters. These unsightly marks can be acidic and damage your clear coat if left unattended.
2. Shake the Citral Can: Before you start, give the Citral Can a good shake. This ensures that the product is well-mixed and ready to work its magic.
3. Spray and Let It Dwell: Spray the Citral on the bug-infested areas of your car’s paint. Allow the product to dwell for a couple of minutes. You’ll notice it is already starting to break down the bug guts.
4. Gently Rub with a Microfiber Cloth: Now comes the fun part! Take a plush microfiber towel and gently rub the Citral-treated areas. The product provides ample lubrication, making it effortless to remove the bug splatters without any scratching or marring.
5. Check the Results: Take a moment to admire your work! You’ll see that the bug guts have vanished, leaving behind clean and shiny paint.
6. Second Application (If Needed): A second application may sometimes be necessary for more stubborn bugs. Simply repeat steps 3 and 4 for any remaining splatters.
7. Rinse: After you’ve finished removing the bugs, it’s crucial to rinse off the Citral thoroughly. Give your car a proper wash to remove any residue.

Applying a Protective Layer

• After safely removing the bugs, protect your car’s surface for future bug encounters.
• Use a sealant or wax to create a physical barrier between bugs and your car’s paint.
• A protective layer also makes it easier to remove bugs during the next cleaning.

Applying the Sealant or Wax

• Use Stoners Hybrid Ceramic Liquid Wax for effective protection.
• Apply the wax following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best results.

FAQ

Conclusion

Dealing with dried bugs on your car’s paint doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the right techniques, such as using bug erasers or Schaeffer’s Citral degreaser, you can effortlessly remove those pesky bug guts without causing any harm to your car’s paint. Remember to let the chemicals do the work and avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent scratches and surface damage. Additionally, applying a protective sealant or wax adds a crucial layer of defense, ensuring your car remains spotless and shielded from future bug encounters.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Act quickly and remove bugs as soon as they hit your car.
• Prep the affected area with a bug remover or car shampoo before washing.
• Let bug removers and chemicals dissolve bugs to prevent scratches.
• For dried bugs, use a bug eraser or bug remover during a full car wash.
• Citral degreaser is an effective and safe alternative for bug removal.
• Rinse off the treated area, wash the entire car, and apply a protective sealant or wax.
• Use plush microfiber towels and avoid abrasive sponges to protect your car’s paint.
• Apply a sealant or wax every few months for added bug protection.