How to clean tree sap just after wax job

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baker999

New member
On a cold Saturday night in Nebraska I finished a nice wash, polish, and wax job on the Passat (almost fell on my butt from the ice that formed on the driveway during the wash phase). The next day, I pulled it out to be in the sunshine and absorb some rays so I could admire my 7 hours of hard work. Must to my dismay, my wife pointed out that a neighbors tree ignited a sap bomb all over both of our cars. Most of the spots are pinhead size, but there are a few that are pencil eraser size. Keep in mind that I just waxed it the day before and that the sap is ALL over. I've read through the posts on tree sap but none really go into the situation of having your car coated with the stuff.



Im wondering how I should approach cleaning it and if the fresh wax job will help. I really don't want to do the whole Dawn wash and rewax if I don't have to. That would really bite.



How do I get this stuff off????
 
You can go about it a number of ways but I find the easiest way is to use clay if you have that handy. It takes it of really fast. It shears it right off. Lubricate with auto shampoo. Just spot where you need to and rewax those areas.



Another method is to use a quality tar remover (I like Stoners) on a foam applicator or on a foam paint brush or dab very lightly with a microfiber towel. The solvent takes it off with no fuss and no pressure. (Hint: clean the microfiber towel with StainStick in the washing machine. Works perfect.) Rewax those areas.



If you use anything that requires "scrubbing" you will scratch your finish. Don't do that.
 
I was afraid you were going to say that. I just did the Tahoe last week and finished the Passat on Saturday. Both were looking very nice and now it looks like it's beginning to rain, only the rain doesn't run down the glass or wipe off with a towel. You just gave me another weekends project. That sucks!!!
 
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