This guide will explain exactly how to remove tar from tires as well as gravel and other debris.
If you’ve ever been driving down the road and seen a black streak on the side of a white car, you’ve seen tar. Tar is a sticky, black substance that is created when asphalt or coal is burned. It can be very difficult to remove from your car, but it’s important to do so because it can damage the paint job. So, if you want to get rid of gravel and know how to remove tar from tires, here’s what you need to know.
How does tar and gravel get stuck to your tires?
Tar and gravel can become stuck to your tires for a few different reasons. The most common reason is when you drive on a road that has been recently resurfaced. The new asphalt is still hot and sticky, and it can transfer onto your tires.
Another way tar and gravel can become stuck to your tires is if you live in an area with a lot of construction. If there’s a lot of dust and debris in the air, it can settle on your car and become stuck to your tires.
How to remove tar from tires?
The best way to remove tar or gravel from your tires is by using a plastic tool to forcibly remove the tar, a mild detergent, a brush and a lubricant like WD-40.
- Firstly, you need to scrape off as much of the tar or gravel as possible using a plastic tool. Be careful not to scratch your tires in the process.
- Once you’ve removed as much as you can, mix a mild detergent with water and use a brush to scrub the area where the tar or gravel was stuck.
- Rinse the area with clean water and dry it off.
- Finally, if you are still struggling to remove any stubborn pieces of tar or gravel, use a lubricant like WD-40. Apply it to a cloth and rub it over the affected area. The tar or gravel should come right off.
Can you use a pressure washer to remove tar and gravel from your tires?
While you may be tempted to opt for something like a pressure washer, this is actually one of the worst things you can do. The high-pressure water can damage the rubber on your tires, making them more susceptible to leaks and punctures.
This isn’t really a result of the pressure level but rather the pulsations that come with most pressure washers. The pulsing can cause the rubber to deteriorate over time, making it more likely to develop cracks. So, while you may be able to blast away some of the tar and gravel, it’s not worth the risk of damaging your tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WD-40 Remove tar from tires?
If you are struggling to get any stubborn tar off your tires, you can try using WD-40. Apply it to a cloth and rub it over the affected area. The tar should come right off with a little bit of scrubbing and elbow grease.
Will tar fall off tires?
You can get lucky and have the tar just fall off your tires without you needing to do much else than drive. But, this isn’t always the case and it better to follow the tips we’ve laid out above to be safe.
Summary
If you find yourself with tar or gravel stuck to your tires, don’t despair. With a little elbow grease and the right tools, you can get rid of it in no time. Just be careful not to damage your tires in the process.
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