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How do you remove silicone sealant from car paint?

I need to remove some silicone sealant from my car paint. I was working at a construction site and somehow managed to get it on my car. What is the best method for doing this without damaging the paint?

avatar
Sophie Newman · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“We’ve all accidentally tracked something into our car. Fortunately, there is a way to remove silicone-adhesive sealant from your car paint.
You will need:
  • Hair dryer
  • Razor blade
  • Angled dental pick
  • Water
  • Microfiber towel
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, you’ll want to use the hairdryer to warm up the old sealant by moving the dryer back and forth.
After it’s warm, pry up the old silicone with a razor blade. Try and hold the razor blade only at a slight angle to avoid scraping the paint. If you can, continue to use the hairdryer and razor blade simultaneously.
From there, use an angled dental pick to reach under the silicone, picking out small sections and removing them one at a time. You should hold the pick end parallel to the surface and twist it upward. The thin adhesive coatings of hardened silicone can be tough to remove, so take your time!
If this doesn’t work or there is stubborn sealant remaining, apply a silicone stripper. However, be aware this can sometimes damage your paint if left on too long.
Once you’ve removed all the silicone, wipe the area dry with microfiber towels and thoroughly rinse with clean water.
Now that your car and its paint are looking good as new, it may be time to look at your
car insurance
policy. Car insurance is an important part of owning and maintaining a car, so it’s worth examining your policy every few months, even if you’re satisfied with your current company.
If you’d like an easy way to explore your car insurance options, use the
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