5 best automotive paint removers

Automotive paint removers are specialized chemical products used for the removal of paint and coatings from the surfaces of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other automotive equipment. These products are essential for various purposes in the automotive industry, such as paint refinishing, restoration, and repairs.Here are some key points about automotive paint removers:

Chemical Formulation: Automotive paint removers typically contain chemicals that can soften and dissolve paint, such as methylene chloride, acetone, or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). The formulation may also include additives to enhance performance and safety.
Types of Paint Removers:
- Liquid Paint Removers: These are the most common type and come in liquid or gel form. They are applied to the painted surface and left to sit for a specific period to soften and lift the paint, making it easier to remove.
- Aerosol Paint Removers: These are spray-on paint removers that provide convenience and ease of application. They are often used for small or detailed areas.
- Dip Tank Paint Removers: In some automotive repair or restoration shops, parts of the vehicle or entire bodies may be submerged in a dip tank containing a paint remover solution. This method is efficient for removing paint from large surfaces.
Safety Precautions: Automotive paint removers can contain hazardous chemicals, so proper safety precautions must be followed when handling them. This includes wearing protective gear like gloves and safety goggles, working in well-ventilated areas, and following the manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Surface Compatibility: It's essential to consider the type of surface and the existing coatings when choosing a paint remover. Different products are formulated for specific paint types and materials to ensure they do not damage the underlying surfaces.
Application and Removal: The application process typically involves brushing, spraying, or spreading the paint remover evenly over the painted area. After a specified dwell time, the softened paint can be scraped or wiped away using appropriate tools, such as plastic or metal scrapers.
Multiple Layers: In automotive restoration projects, it's not uncommon to encounter multiple layers of paint. Specialized paint removers designed for stripping multiple layers may be required.
Cleanup: After paint removal, it's important to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any remaining residue from the paint remover. This step ensures proper adhesion of new coatings if applicable.
Environmental Considerations: The disposal of paint remover waste must comply with local environmental regulations. Some automotive paint removers are formulated to be more environmentally friendly and less harmful.
Surface Preparation: In many cases, after paint removal, additional steps such as sanding, priming, and repainting may be necessary to achieve the desired finish.
Professional Use: Automotive paint removers are commonly used by professional auto body shops and restoration specialists. DIY enthusiasts should exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when using these products.

In summary, automotive paint removers are essential tools in the automotive industry for stripping paint and coatings from vehicle surfaces. They come in various forms, require safety precautions, and should be selected based on the type of paint and surface being treated. Proper use and disposal are critical to ensure safety and environmental compliance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best automotive paint removers on the market

Automotive Stripper (Quart - 32oz) Super Remover - Removes Paint from Metal - Clings to Vertical Surfaces

Based on 128 reviews Check latest price

STRONG: The strongest automotive paint stripper available without methylene chloride, NMP, or any other highly toxic chemicals.
SAFER: This revolutionary, patent pending, new automotive stripper works similar to products containing methylene chloride, but uses only safer ingredients. Water cleanable.
FAST: Ultra fast action. Works in 15 minutes for most automotive paint stripping projects. Removes multiple layers in one application (up to 5 layers).
GEL: The gel formula easily clings to vertical surfaces. Can be covered with a plastic film for extra effectiveness
EXPERTISE: Super Remover has been manufacturing high quality stripping products for over 40 years.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can it be used on metal model cars
Answer:	Hello Lis, This all depends on how deep the steam penetrated the wood grain, our stripper will remover stain on top of the wood only, if this team has been traded to deeply into woodgrain you have to use another product called oxalic acid that will dissolve coloration in the wood grain. You can call our tool free number 1-866-772-2948 for more information Regards
Question:	Will this remove chrome under paint or just the paint
Answer:	Hello Matt, Yes our product can be used safely on all metals.
Question:	Can this be used on a motor
Answer:	Hello Emil, yes it will
Question:	Will this remove powder coat
Answer:	Hello Robert, Rock miracle paint and varnish remover is a Methylene Chloride base remover which is stronger than our product. However it is illegal in the US for consumers since November of last year. Our NEW GENERATION paint remover is the strongest product on the market after Methylene Chloride and doesn’t contain any cancerogenic ingredients. Hope this answers your question. Best regards

Product features

Industrial performance!

Removes up to 5 layers
Ultra-fast action gel
Removes all types of paint
Water cleanable
Safe for all surfaces

Why use our multilayer stripper?

Does not contain Methylene Chloride, NMP or any other highly toxic chemicals.
The gel formula clings easily to vertical surfaces
Can be covered with a plastic film for extra effectiveness

Goo Gone Automotive - Cleans Auto Interiors, Auto Bodies and Rims, Removes Bugs, Stickers, Paint and More - 24 Fl. Oz.

Goo Gone

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Goo Gone's line of products is a trusted brand, we stand by our products for all of your dirty, sticky, messes. Safe for you, your surfaces and your home! Please explore our line of Goo Gone Original, Pro-Power, All Purpose, Sticker Lifter, Spray Gel, Patio, Grill, Oven, Automotive, Tile & Grout, Clean Up Wipes, Kitchen Degreasers, Paint and more! There are so many ways to remove tough messes with Goo Gone Products. Specifically formulated with Citrus Power, Goo Gone’s portfolio of products effortlessly cleans up stains and sticky messes around your entire home. From gum to grease, fabric to fiberglass, you can count on Goo Gone to safely remove almost any problem and restore your surfaces to their original condition. No-drip and surface-safe, Goo Gone Automotive product is the easy way to keep your car looking shiny. Keep your car at its best, no matter what sticky mess it gets into. The Goo Gone Automotive product line is perfect for cleaning auto interiors, auto bodies and rims. Goo Gone is safe for class, metals, plastics and more. Goo Gone uses the power of citric oils to defear the toughest goos. Great for a variety of automotive cleanup projects. Remover bumper stickers, gum, bird droppings, tree sap, spray paint, break dust and asphalt. Fast working, no harsh odors, and Goo Gone is clear coat safe. Keep a bottle or two handy for anything life may throw at you or your walls, floors, cars, etc. You get it, Goo Gone is surface safe so it is a safe alternative to abrasive cleaners that may damage your surfaces. Sit back and let Goo Gone take care of your toughest messes.

Removes - Bumper stickers, gum, bird droppings, tree sap, spray paint, brake dust and asphalt
Grease Remover - Works great on removing grease or tar
Decal Remover - Great for removing decals from your cars, boats, RV's, etc
Remover Bumper Sticker - Removes sticky, gooey, gummy messes without harming your car
Safe For Use On - Metals, plastics and glass

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this work to remove plasti dip from rims without damaging the paint
Answer:	Yes, they washed off hands easily and also I was able to wipe off of my wood floors without a problem. I also like the box with handle which the paints come in.
Question:	Can this be used to remove double sided adhesive which held phone mount disk on dashboard? Will it harm my dashboard
Answer:	It depends what your goal is. If it is just to have fun and paint, then sure! But if your goal is to learn how to paint with watercolors, this set wouldn’t be very helpful. When I took a watercolor class, the teacher told us to “get the best you can afford”, including a decent paintbrush. You don’t need a lot of colors because you can mix them, which this set isn’t meant to do.
Question:	Is this the same as regular goo gone
Answer:	No, the colors are individually fixed to their own cups. I just tried to pop one out & short of breaking it, couldn't get it out!
Question:	Can it remove tough double sided adhesive under emblems
Answer:	Hi. They do dry a bit chalky but I’ve found them to be very good

Product features

Surface Safe

Goo Gone Automotive Spray Gel is specially formulated for removing sticky, gooey, gummy messes from cars. All without harming surfaces. The non-drip, no-mess automotive formula safely removes tree sap, dirt, tar, bugs, brake dust, bumper stickers and more.

Removes Toughest Sticky and Gooey Problems

Bugs, tree sap, bumper sticker residue and other substances can be tough to remove from your car. You want to ensure that any product you use doesn’t scratch or mark the surface and Goo Gone Automotive does just that. Use on floor mats and tools, even boats and campers. The spray gel clings to the surface for no-drip, no-mess cleanup. Safe for use on both interior and exterior surfaces.

Select Your Favorite

Goo Gone offers multiple ways to remove your goo and keep your surfaces safe. Also consider Goo Gone Automotive pour bottle.

Rust-Oleum 323171 Aircraft Remover

Rust-Oleum

Based on 28 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum Aircraft Remover provides premium strength stripping for nearly any paint, acrylic, lacquer, epoxy, polyurethane or other coating. Improved non methylene chloride formula works on vertical surfaces with superior efficacy. Fast acting paint stripper removes all finishes on automotive metal surfaces for cars, trucks and more.

Removes any type of finish from metal surfaces including acrylic, lacquer, polyurethane and baked enamel
Non-methylene chloride formula provides extra strength with easy application
Fast acting finish stripper works in 20 to 45 minutes on most coatings
Use outdoors or in a well ventilated area - not recommended for use on fiberglass, plastic or any synthetic substrates
Aircraft paint remover is non-corrosive on metal with normal exposure time

User questions & answers

Question:	will this product remove powder coat from an alloy wheel
Answer:	I'm not sure what you are asking exactly. The disc itself is 4" in diameter. 1/2" thick and if you can understand this analogy, the disc is mounted to the bottom of a grinder disc style head.
Question:	Will this remove old flaking clear coat on oem cast alum wheels w/tires on & still mountd? If not, which product would? In midst of diy car project
Answer:	Glad to answer your question. The rust grindering wheel maximum speed 12500 (R.P.M), Safe speed 9900/min, The rotational speed and linear speed of your machine's mark cannot exceed the disc's mark. Otherwise, the grinding disc may be easily damaged when overloaded. hope help.
Question:	Will it remove bed liner material
Answer:	Hello, these strip discs is five pack for one set. For details, please refer to our details page and choose the size that suits you. thankyou!
Question:	can this product be used on wood
Answer:	These are 4 inch. I cannot say much more about them at this point not having broken into this pack. I have been using another brand in 4.5 inch and so long as the surface is reasonably smooth they last well for paint/moderate rust/mill scale removal leaving a good paint-able or weldable surface.
Question:	What is the maximum depth of the profile it will do
Answer:	no worry it's fine on any types ofexternal
Question:	how quickly will Strip & Clean Discs stops
Answer:	Yes absolutely gone from my countertop
Question:	hello, How many do i get
Answer:	Doubtful, as I don't think it's intended for fabrics and may stain them on its own. It's my understanding this product is intended to remove the sticky/gummy glue type material often used for stickers or tape. Think duct tape used on plastic to secure it while moving, but the tape sat in the sun too long and now there's that gummy mess leftover when you remove the tape.
Question:	Is this a 4 or 4 1/2 strip disc
Answer:	I have not used it for removing decals ,so I don't know. I have just used it to remove residual tacky from packaging tape and it is not that good. Can't recommend it.

Product features

Widely used in metals

Rust stripping disc durable in use
Hard-wearing, low grinding noise
Uniform grinding effect, less dust

Great for woodworking

Fast to remove the paint or rust without damaging the original surface
Easy Strip Discs Application
Fit for most makes of 100mm to 115mm angle grinders

Remove Scaling, Oxidation, rust

Used for surface preparation, conditioning and finishing
Excellent for removal of paint or rust off car panels
Also great for use on wooden or fiberglass surfaces

3M Paint and Rust Stripper, 03171, 4 in, Packaging May Vary

Based on 353 reviews Check latest price

Product description

3M Paint and Rust Stripper removes rust, scale and old paint from metal with exceptional ease. This slightly flexible disc uniformly grinds or sands over contoured or curved surfaces for greater consistency. It attaches easily to a standard electric drill - the drill does much of the work, saving effort and boosting efficiency. Paint and rust strippers come in both heavy and light duty options.

Grinding disc removes rust, scale, and old paint from metal
Multi-use abrasive works on metal, wood, fiberboard and plastics
Flexible non-woven nylon fiber disc will not rust or splinter
Coarse silicon carbide abrasive cuts fast to save time
Easily attaches to an electric drill with a ¼-inch mandrel
3M Paint and Rust Stripper works quicker, lasts longer and cuts faster than conventional sandpaper to strip away corrosion, scale and old finishes
Made from durable, non-woven synthetic material, Rust and Paint Remover makes a tough job faster and easier

User questions & answers

Question:	I’m stripping the paint of my stairs and there are a lot of deep grooves. Do you think this will be effective
Answer:	Should be fine for that. What year suburban? It is not suitable for plastics even in light contact, so be sure to remove any plastics on the vehicle that may be in the work area. I used these to strip down to bear metal on an older truck I'm restoring. Great at removing paint and rust with light pressure and low rpm. Very little metal is removed if any. Finish on metal is similar to 400-600 grit sand paper. Will leave a very coarse finish on heavily applied paint.
Question:	this more be a dumb question but is this safe to use on my car I have a heavy layer of rust on the top of my suburban will this help remove it
Answer:	Could work, but would likely clog the disc. These are best for removing costings that will create dust and not build up in
Question:	Need to remove some elastomeric paint from a deck, anyone used this product for that sort of thing
Answer:	This product will remove all paint if you are not careful.
Question:	Have aluminum rollup door thats baked on paint and painted lettering on it. Will this remove the lettering paint and leave the baked on paint
Answer:	China I'm pretty sher

Product features

3M Paint and Rust Stripper

Details:

Carfidant Blue Car Scratch Remover - Ultimate Scratch and Swirl Remover for Blue Color Paints - Polish & Paint Restorer - Easily Repair Paint Scratches, Scratches, Water Spots! Car Buffer Kit

Based on 852 reviews Check latest price

Product description

CARFIDANTcare Ultimate Blue Edition Scratch & Swirl Remover

Removes Scratches & Swirls

Safe & Easy to apply by hand or orbital!

Patented Formula specifically formulated to be used on blue colored paint and is safe on all paint finishes

About Ultimate Scratch & Swirl Remover Our Scratch & Swirl Remover is designed to save your car from small scratches, swirls and other marks that come at the hands of careless people and the environment! It is easy to use and can be applied by hand or with an orbital. (It is designed to work on small scratches, if you can feel the scratch while running a fingernail through it, it may be too deep.)

BLUE PAINT SCRATCH REPAIR - Our Ultimate Blue Edition Car Paint Scratch Repair Kit is specifically formulated to be used on blue colored paints. You can safely use it on any clearcoat, single stage, or multi stage paint!
EASY SCRATCH & SWIRL REPAIR - If your car has light scratches, swirls, or other marks - you can easily fix that with our Scratch & Swirl Remover Kit! Using the included buffer pad, our specially formulated compound will allow you to easily remove and "erase" years of wear and tear from your vehicles paint and overall appearance! (Please note if you have very deep scratches that can be easily felt with the tip of your fingernail the product may not help as much.)
ULTIMATE PAINT RESTORER - Not only will this remove swirls and scratches, it will restore the gloss and shine of your paint and bring it back to its original brilliance! The special rubbing compound will remove water spots, oxidation and other contaminants from your paint! Easily buff it all out by hand with our included buffer pad!
PREMIUM CHEMICALS - We formulate all our products to ensure they are the best! Professional grade, but easy enough for anyone to use! We use only the absolute best chemicals and ensure there are no unnecessary color dyes or scents! You get the best cutting polishing compound in a specifically formulated formula with a kit that lets you go right to work!
MADE IN USA - CARFIDANT 100% SATISFACTION - Don't take our word that this is the best in car detailing products and car cleaning supplies, if you are not 100% satisfied we will refund you in full! We are professionals! We are enthusiasts! We spent years developing our professional automotive detailing products and believe in them 100%! We use them. Our friends use them. If you are not 100% satisfied with any of our products, we will give you a full refund! Send us a message!

User questions & answers

Question:	If i have a metallic dark blue paint on my 2003 bmw m3, what color should i buy? black ? or blue
Answer:	There are provisions for a lock. Like theft deterrent devices, if someone really wants to steal the rv, they can work the chock loose.
Question:	Why is this brand color specific? Is there color added to the product
Answer:	I Received two with mine.
Question:	Can my car be fixed with this product? the color is fading how to fix those
Answer:	Description is pretty clear. Tire opening of 1.50 - 5.75 inch wheel gap. Just read the full description next time. Thx Mike
Question:	Is this a permanent fix
Answer:	This is a water based product. So we recommend using soap and water. Please note all of the paint residue may not come off of the leather and the pigments may leave a stain.