how to remove a dealership sticker

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

18-01-2025

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Congratulations on your new car! But that shiny new ride is sporting a rather large, unwanted accessory: the dealership sticker. Getting rid of it can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can remove those pesky stickers without damaging your car's paint. This guide will show you how to remove a dealership sticker effectively and safely.

Assessing the Sticker Situation

Before you begin, take a moment to assess the sticker. Its age and type of adhesive will influence your removal strategy. Older stickers are often easier to remove than newer ones because the adhesive has had more time to degrade. Some stickers use strong adhesives that may require more aggressive methods.

Tips for Evaluating Your Sticker:

• Age: Older stickers are usually easier to remove.
• Size: Large stickers may require a more patient and careful approach.
• Adhesive Type: Some adhesives are more stubborn than others.

Tools You'll Need

Gather these tools before you start to ensure a smooth removal process:

• Plastic scraper: A credit card, guitar pick, or a dedicated plastic scraper works well. Avoid metal tools, which can scratch your paint.
• Hair dryer or heat gun: Heat softens the adhesive, making removal easier.
• Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol): This helps dissolve remaining adhesive.
• Microfiber cloths: These are soft and won't scratch your paint.
• WD-40 or adhesive remover: For particularly stubborn stickers. (Test in an inconspicuous area first)
• Detailing clay bar (optional): Removes any remaining adhesive residue.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Dealership Stickers

Follow these steps for effective sticker removal:

1. Prepare the Area: Wash and thoroughly dry the area where the sticker is located. This removes any loose dirt or debris that could scratch your paint during the removal process.

2. Apply Heat: Gently heat the sticker with a hair dryer or heat gun. Don't overheat the paint; keep the heat source moving. The goal is to soften the adhesive, not to melt the paint.

3. Loosen an Edge: Use the plastic scraper to carefully loosen an edge of the sticker. Start at a corner and gently work your way along an edge. Avoid pulling too hard, as this could damage the paint.

4. Peel Slowly: Once an edge is loose, slowly peel the sticker away from the car. If it resists, reapply heat and continue to slowly peel.

5. Remove Adhesive Residue: Once the sticker is removed, you'll likely have some adhesive residue. Apply isopropyl alcohol to a microfiber cloth and gently rub the residue away. For stubborn residue, try WD-40 or a commercial adhesive remover, again testing in an inconspicuous area first.

6. Clean the Area: After removing the residue, wipe the area with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any remaining alcohol or adhesive remover.

7. Clay Bar (Optional): Use a detailing clay bar to remove any microscopic adhesive residue for a perfectly smooth finish.

Troubleshooting Stubborn Stickers

If you're struggling with a particularly stubborn sticker, try these additional tips:

• More Heat: Apply more heat for a longer duration, but be careful not to overheat the paint.
• Soaking: Soak the sticker with warm soapy water for 15-20 minutes to help loosen the adhesive.
• Commercial Adhesive Remover: Utilize a commercial adhesive remover designed for automotive use. Always test it on an inconspicuous area first.

Preventing Future Sticker Damage

To prevent future sticker damage, consider these strategies:

• Wax your car regularly: Waxing creates a barrier between the sticker and the paint, making removal easier.
• Remove stickers promptly: The longer a sticker remains on your car, the more difficult it will be to remove.

Removing a dealership sticker can seem daunting, but by following these steps and using the right tools, you can do it successfully without harming your car's finish. Remember patience and a gentle touch are key! Enjoy your sparkling, sticker-free vehicle!