How effective is WD-40 on tar?

[TitaniumSE]

I would like to spend $3.99 on Tarminator, but I'm leaning towards WD-40 because it has many more uses than just taking tar out. It's $2.00 at Target. So..has anyone ever used this on tar? Is gas effective too?

[ToyotaJimD.]

Good question... WD-40 might work okay, but it might discolor sensitive surfaces, too.

I don't think I'd use gas.

If you're talking body paint, just get some Mineral Spirits or Gum Turpentine.

Whatever you use, test in an inconspicuous area if you're unsure.

Wax afterwards.

[TitaniumSE]

I'm gonna take tar off of the underbody. Near the wheel wells.

[Twisted Sid]

turtlewax bug and tar remover this shit works awesome. its in a yellow spray can. took tar and road grime off my old rims and paint after it had been on there for a year and and a half.

[thoughthard]

I have had good results using car wax on tar areas...

[TitaniumSE]

^ You mean using wax to remove tar? WTF?!?!?

[toyomoho]

WD-40 is mostly kerosene or something similar. This is one reason its rust protection does not last as long as something like LPS. It also has a tendency to stain plastic and painted surfaces.

[ToyotaJimD.]

A cleaner wax can remove light tar, but if you've got stuck-on clumps, you need a solvent.

Always test in an inconspicuous area -- even bug and tar removers aren't always ideal for all surfaces -- read the fine print.

Several applications may be necessary.

Also, watch the expletives... this is a family-oritented forum (I think).

[Twisted Sid]

Originally Posted by ToyotaJimD

Also, watch the expletives... this is a family-oritented forum (I think).

right, but you know in the last 3 years i have been on this forum i havent seen very many familes on here. and if the word shit offends you, this might not be the right forum for you.

[CDUFF777]

Originally Posted by PhantomGrey

I'm gonna take tar off of the underbody. Near the wheel wells.

key word here is underbody - I would go for the wd-40 method, I have sprayed the entire underbody of my truck with wd-40 prior to winter driving - it works well, you may get some burn off on the exaust components but that won't last long.

[thoughthard]

Try Simple Green on the tar.

[silverxls]

i'll second the turtle wax tar and bug remover.... this has worked very well for me. i've used wd40 many many times for at least the last 30 years, and it works better than most things, like wax or cleaners. i remember trying simple green. it was a good cleaner on oily stuff, but not on tar. just remember after using the turtle wax or wd40, you will need to wax.

[Mule]

I have used WD40 several times...worked well

[dna59]

I guess for the underbody it wouldn't hurt using it. But you would definately not wanna use it on paint and shit.