My tree loves my Volvo...too much

[Bullet Blue]

We have an Alaskan 'weeping cedar' that is right next to our driveway. We've been living at this place for 3 years now and have never had problems with it.

However, the other day I was giving the C30 a wash when I noticed what looked to be paint bubbles on the hood and passenger side rocker pannels. I was shocked because it's an 2008. The next day I was going to take it to the dealership, but just as I went out, I noticed it was more goopy than before (probably from sitting out in the sun) and I realized that it was tree sap after touching it. The culprit is that weeping cedar. I've parked further away from it since, but there seems to be new sap on it now. There are not other trees around my driveway.

I don't want to damage the paint obviously, but does anyone know what is the best way to get it off?

[tpl]

Methyl Hydrate works best. Varsol 2nd best.

I have the same problem from a neighbour's tree and after trying bug & tar remover, isopropyl and other nostrums I finally dared to try methyl.    I then use a cleaner-wax on the area immediately afterwards.

Worked on BMW, Honda and VW  clearcoat paint just fine.


Do not under any circumstances use any sort of laquer thinners or acetone based stuff.

[dr_spock]

A clay bar will work too if you don't like working with a flammable and toxic chemical.  But it may take more effort. 

[inco]

Seems to me that Dawn dish soap will work as well. Repeated rubbings might be a required though. Regardless of what works, make sure the area is waxed after and it goes without saying that it's a very good idea to keep any car that sits outdoors - waxed.