Iron and tar removers aren’t cheap and can cost $1 per ounce for some products. The good news is that a little bit goes a long way, and iron and tar removers can provide a deeper clean in a fraction of the time. Using chemicals to dissolve contamination instead of scrubbing them away will minimize the risk of damaging the paint during decontamination.
Iron Remover: Hot microscopic particles of brake pads and rotors embed their way into a car’s paint every time it’s driven. Over time, these ferrous metal particles oxidize and create unsightly orange freckles known as rust blooms.
Tar Remover: Road construction usually means less wear and tear on a car’s suspension but can wreak havoc on the paint. Removing road tar is easiest when it’s fresh and still soft. After the tar has hardened, the chemicals will have a more challenging time penetrating the surface and dissolving the contamination. Tar removal products are also helpful for removing tree sap and sticker adhesive.
Expert Tip: Iron removal products have a strong sulfur smell. Always use iron removers in a well-ventilated area and wear nitrile gloves. Citrus-based tar remover fumes are slightly less noxious, but wearing personal protection equipment is a good practice when using any decontamination product.