How to remove tree sap from a car? Get rid of tree sap with these tips

It is difficult to remove resin from a car, because it adheres easily to the paintwork. How to prevent tree sap on a car? Fortunately we have tips for removing tree resin from a car and also for preventing it.

Why is it difficult to remove tree sap from a car?


Pine trees produce sap. This is incredibly sticky stuff, making it difficult to remove pine tree sap from the car once it's on it. It sticks to the paintwork. That makes it difficult to avoid scratches when you need to remove tree sap from the car. 

It is safe to remove tree sap from a car with HG

how to remove tree sap from a carWith HG sticker remover it is easy to remove all types of sticky substances, including tree sap. That makes it the perfect sap remover for a car. We also have an odourless version.

Use the following steps to remove tree sap from a car: 

  1. Always test that the surface is resistant to the product. Add a small amount to an invisible spot.
  2. You always need to use our product undiluted on the sap.
  3. When you have applied HG sticker remover, leave it to absorb for a little while.
  4. Any sap left? Apply once more.
  5. Remove the tree sap with a cloth after a few seconds.

How to remove hardened tree sap from a car: 5 tips

With HG sticker remover you can remove resin from a car. There are also alternative ways to remove sap from a car. We would like to share a few. Be careful! We cannot guarantee that they work. You use them at your own risk.

1. Get rid of tree sap with methylated spirits or ether

You can use methylated spirits or ether to remove sap from the car. Try it out in an inconspicuous place first. They are aggressive products for removing resin from a car. In some cases, they may leave a blue sheen. Never apply it directly to the paintwork. Use a sponge or cloth to treat the sap stain. Then rinse properly.

2. How to remove resin from a car with nail polish removerhow to prevent tree sap on a car

Nail polish remover or acetone also work to remove sap from a car. Apply it to the stain with a cloth and remove the sap. Then treat once more with wax. 

3. Remove resin from a car with turpentine

Turpentine dilutes paint and can also be used to remove tree sap from a car. Turpentine can damage the paintwork. So, try it out in an inconspicuous place first. Lightly dilute the turpentine, apply it with a soft cloth or sponge to the sap and then rinse the paintwork with plenty of water.

4. Remove resin stains on a car with cooking butter

A more ecological way is to use cooking butter to remove sap from a car. Apply the cooking butter to the stain and leave it to absorb for 15 minutes. Then rinse properly.

5. Remove resin from a car with vegetable oil or olive oil

Besides cooking butter, you can also use vegetable oil or olive oil to remove sap from a car. It works the same as with cooking butter. Spread it properly on the stain, leave to absorb for 15 minutes and then rinse.

How to prevent tree sap on a car

It is of course best to make sure you don't have tree sap on the car in the first place. So try not to park near trees or use a cover. It means you don’t have to remove tree sap from the car. That's not always possible of course. You can also treat the car with a coat of wax. The wax ensures that dirt does not adhere so easily to the paintwork of your car.

If you have a good tip for removing tree sap from a car, please let us know!

Frequently Asked Questions about how to remove pine resin from a car

Why is it difficult to remove tree sap from a car?

Resin is tough and sticky. Fresh tree sap spreads easily, and dried-up tree sap sticks to the paintwork. 

How to remove tree resin from a car?

You can remove tree sap from a car with:

  • Methylated spirits or ether
  • Nail polish remover
  • Turpentine
  • Cooking butter
  • Vegetable oil or olive oil

How to prevent having to remove tree sap from a car?

It is best not to park near trees or to use a cover. A coat of wax can also prevent tree sap from sticking to the paintwork.

Which HG product do I use to remove resin from my car?

HG sticker remover is also the perfect sap remover for a car.



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