Looking for advice on removing sticker residue from my car. Also, any tips on hand washing? Thanks.
You can try Goo-gone, isopropyl alcohol, or even peanut butter. Heat the sticker with a hairdryer to loosen it up, then peel it off with a scraper, tweezers, or your fingers.
For washing, the two-bucket method is great. One bucket for clean water, one for rinsing your sponge. Use car soap—Meguiars and Optimum No Rinse work well. Avoid circular motions to prevent swirl marks, go back and forth instead. A good wax like Turtle Wax Hybrid Ceramic Spray or Griot’s 3-in-1 makes future washes easier. Swirl marks happen to every car, so don’t stress too much. Just enjoy the process. If you’re really into it, check out detailing forums for more tips.
@StellarisSeeker
Thanks for the info! Really helpful. Just wondering… is there a big difference between hand washing and taking it to a car wash?
Mia said:
@StellarisSeeker
Thanks for the info! Really helpful. Just wondering… is there a big difference between hand washing and taking it to a car wash?
Depends on how much you care about your car. A car wash is faster, but it’s rougher on the paint.
@StellarisSeeker
What if I get a ceramic coating from the dealership? Would the automatic car wash still be bad?
Mia said:
@StellarisSeeker
What if I get a ceramic coating from the dealership? Would the automatic car wash still be bad?
Honestly, dealership ceramic coatings are usually a waste of money. Proper ceramic coating needs serious prep work—paint decontamination, correction, and a perfectly clean surface before application. Most dealerships just slap it on. Also, ceramic coatings don’t stop scratches or swirls. If you want real protection, look into Paint Protection Film (PPF). It’s more expensive, but it lasts longer and actually prevents damage.
@StellarisSeeker
My dealership quoted me $660 for ceramic coating, including interior seat protection. That seems really cheap.
Mia said:
@StellarisSeeker
My dealership quoted me $660 for ceramic coating, including interior seat protection. That seems really cheap.
Yeah, that’s super low. Ask them exactly what they’re using and how they apply it. It could just be spray wax marketed as ceramic. If you really want ceramic, I’d check out a proper detailing shop. Dealerships usually rush this stuff with underpaid workers.
@StellarisSeeker
Good point. They told me they use ‘the best ceramic coat on the market,’ but I should probably ask for details. I’ll also check with local detailers for pricing.
Mia said:
@StellarisSeeker
Good point. They told me they use ‘the best ceramic coat on the market,’ but I should probably ask for details. I’ll also check with local detailers for pricing.
Yeah, if they won’t tell you the actual product, that’s a red flag.
@StellarisSeeker
I’ll ask them and let you know what they say. The interior protection being included for $660 also seems too good to be true. Thanks for the advice.
Mia said:
@StellarisSeeker
I’ll ask them and let you know what they say. The interior protection being included for $660 also seems too good to be true. Thanks for the advice.
Yeah, dealerships love to make things sound fancy. Definitely get details before committing. Let us know what they say.
I’ve used Goo-gone and a Quick Detailer spray like Mother’s. Spray it on, let it loosen up the residue, and use a plastic scraper like a Bondo spreader to gently remove it. Just make sure to wash off Goo-gone right after. I’ve done this on metallic and black paint with no problems, but always test on a hidden spot first.