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Best Degreaser For Car Paint (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a solution to keep your car paint looking as good as new, then a degreaser may be what you need. When it comes to keeping your car in great condition, choosing the right product is key. However, with so many types of degreasers available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one that will work for your needs.

Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it’s important to know what type of car paint you have. This will influence the type of degreaser you should use, and ensure that it’s safe for your car’s paint. Secondly, make sure to read the instructions carefully to ensure you’re using the product correctly. It’s also important to consider how often you will need to use the degreaser to maintain your car’s paint.

If you’re unsure about what degreaser to choose, here are some questions to consider. Have you noticed any dirt or grime build-up on your car’s paint? Do you live in an area with high levels of pollution or heavy traffic? Is your car parked outside all day, and exposed to the elements? Answering these questions will help you choose the right degreaser, and ensure that your car’s paint remains in great condition.

10 Best Degreaser For Car Paint

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for thinning, cleaning, and degreasing paint.
2
This product is ideal for preparing surfaces for painting by removing contaminants, grease, and wax while also acting as an anti-static cleaner.
3
Ideal for cleaning and removing bug residue on various surfaces such as plastic, rubber, metal, chrome, aluminum, windows, mirrors, and car paint.
4
This product is ideal for removing grease and wax contaminants from surfaces before painting.
5
This product is ideal for thinning paint, cleaning surfaces, and removing grease and grime.
6
It is ideal for removing heavy grease, oil, stubborn grime and dirt from various surfaces.
7
The product is ideal for preparing surfaces before automobile painting and all painting projects.
8
The product is ideal for prepping surfaces before painting automobiles and all types of painting projects.
9
This product is ideal for thinning, cleaning fiberglass, epoxy resins and adhesives, and as a heavy duty degreaser.
10
The product is ideal for cleaning automotive parts with a heated tank and pump, making it easy to remove dirt and grime.
This product is ideal for thinning, cleaning, and degreasing paint.
This product is ideal for preparing surfaces for painting by removing contaminants, grease, and wax while also acting as an anti-static cleaner.
Ideal for cleaning and removing bug residue on various surfaces such as plastic, rubber, metal, chrome, aluminum, windows, mirrors, and car paint.
This product is ideal for removing grease and wax contaminants from surfaces before painting.
This product is ideal for thinning paint, cleaning surfaces, and removing grease and grime.
It is ideal for removing heavy grease, oil, stubborn grime and dirt from various surfaces.
The product is ideal for preparing surfaces before automobile painting and all painting projects.
The product is ideal for prepping surfaces before painting automobiles and all types of painting projects.
This product is ideal for thinning, cleaning fiberglass, epoxy resins and adhesives, and as a heavy duty degreaser.
The product is ideal for cleaning automotive parts with a heated tank and pump, making it easy to remove dirt and grime.

1. Low-Odor Mineral Cleaning Pack By Sunnyside

The high-powered solvent is a versatile product that can be used to thin most oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes. It is an effective tool that can be used to clean brushes, rollers, or spray equipment. The low odor of the solvent makes it ideal for use indoors, as it does not produce any harmful fumes. It can also be used for degreasing bicycle or automotive parts, as well as a household degreaser.

Please note that this product is not for sale in California or other VOC restricted areas.

Pros

  • Versatile product that can be used to thin most oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes
  • Effective tool for cleaning brushes, rollers, or spray equipment
  • Low odor, making it ideal for use indoors
  • Can be used for degreasing bicycle or automotive parts, as well as a household degreaser

Cons

  • – Not for sale in California or other VOC restricted areas

2. Prep Perfect Surface Cleaner & Degreaser

The Custom Shop / Restoration Shop Panel Prep is a highly effective, water-based formula designed to remove surface contaminants prior to sanding or applying automotive paint or primer. The product is specifically formulated with a blend of solvents and detergents to cut through and remove sanding dust, road debris, and other surface contaminants from primed or painted surfaces. It comes in a ready-to-use one-gallon container, making it easy to apply and suitable for use on a range of surfaces.

One of the key benefits of this product is its low VOC formula, which contains less than 25 g/L of VOCs. This helps to eliminate static and reduce dust contamination, resulting in improved metallic orientation and a smoother painting experience. The product is also highly versatile, making it ideal for use on leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal surfaces. The formula is multifunctional and leaves no residue, making it a great choice for a final wash prior to painting.

The Custom Shop / Restoration Shop Panel Prep is fast and effective, making it a popular choice among automotive professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The product is safe for most surfaces, with the exception of lacquer. It is a solvent-strong waterborne formula with exceptional grease-cutting power, making it an effective solution for removing a range of surface contaminants.

Overall, the Custom Shop / Restoration Shop Panel Prep is a highly effective, versatile, and easy-to-use product that is ideal for anyone looking to improve their automotive painting process. Whether you're a professional painter or a DIY enthusiast, this product is sure to deliver the results you need to achieve a flawless finish.

Pros

  • Low VOC formula eliminates static and reduces dust contamination
  • Multifunctional for primed or painted surfaces, leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal
  • Removes sanding dust, road debris, and most surface contaminants
  • Versatile, fast, and effective with no residue
  • Solvent-strong waterborne formula with exceptional grease-cutting power

Cons

  • – Not safe for use on lacquer surfaces

3. Bug Blitz All-Purpose Exterior Cleaner

Looking for an effective way to remove bugs and insects from your car's exterior surfaces? Look no further than Bug Remover! This powerful cleaner is specially formulated to quickly and easily wipe away even the toughest bug stains, leaving your car looking like new.

With its all-purpose interior and exterior cleaning formula, Bug Remover is versatile enough to use on a wide range of surfaces, including plastic, rubber, metal, chrome, aluminum, windows, mirrors, and more. No need to scrub – simply spray and rinse for a quick and easy clean.

Bug Remover is also safe for use on car paint, wax, and clear coats, making it an excellent choice for cars, RVs, boats, semi-trucks, motorcycles, and even for use in your home or office. Its powerful formula quickly loosens build-up, making it easy to wipe away and leaving surfaces clean and refreshed.

Pros

  • Powerful formula quickly loosens and eliminates bug stains
  • Versatile enough to use on a wide range of surfaces, including car paint, wax, and clear coats
  • Easy spray and rinse application
  • Suitable for use on cars, RVs, boats, semi-trucks, motorcycles, and more

Cons

  • – May not be as effective on extremely stubborn bug stains

4. Custom Coat Aerosol Surface Cleaner & Prep

The Custom Coat Panel Prep Surface Cleaner comes in an extra-large 18-ounce aerosol spray can that effectively removes adhesive residue, wax, grease, road tar, oil, silicone, paint overspray, and bug remnants. This cleaner leaves no residue and helps eliminate static for improved metallic orientation and reduced dust contamination. Its solvent strong in waterborne formula has exceptional grease-cutting power, making it multifunctional for primed or painted surfaces, leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal. Use it to remove sanding dust, road debris, and most surface contaminants. It is also great for a final wash prior to painting. The flat fan high atomization nozzle offers a large fan pattern and excellent coverage, while the foaming action lifts contaminants off the surface, making them easier to remove. This spray cleaner hangs well on vertical surfaces, eliminating wax and grease problems.

If you want to prepare a surface for painting or remove any unwanted contaminants, this Custom Coat Panel Prep Surface Cleaner is perfect. Its strong formula ensures that it can remove even the toughest contaminants without leaving any residue behind. Not only does it clean the surface, but it also helps to eliminate static for improved metallic orientation and reduced dust contamination. The flat fan high atomization nozzle ensures excellent coverage, and the foaming action makes cleaning even easier. It is also versatile, as it can be used on a range of different surfaces, including primed or painted surfaces, leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal. It is easy to use and comes in an extra-large 18-ounce aerosol spray can, making it perfect for larger projects.

The Custom Coat Panel Prep Surface Cleaner is an excellent product that provides exceptional cleaning power. Its foaming action and flat fan high atomization nozzle make cleaning easy and effective. It is versatile and can be used on a range of different surfaces, making it perfect for a variety of projects. Its waterborne formula ensures that it is strong and effective, while also being safe to use. If you need a surface cleaner for your painting projects or want to remove any unwanted contaminants, this is the perfect product for you.

Pros

  • Effectively removes adhesive residue, wax, grease, road tar, oil, silicone, paint overspray, and bug remnants
  • Leaves no residue and helps eliminate static for improved metallic orientation and reduced dust contamination
  • Solvent strong in waterborne formula with exceptional grease-cutting power
  • Multifunctional for primed or painted surfaces, leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal
  • Removes sanding dust, road debris, and most surface contaminants
  • Flat fan high atomization nozzle offers a large fan pattern and excellent coverage
  • Versatile foaming action lifts contaminants off the surface making them easier to remove
  • Hangs well on vertical surfaces in eliminating waxes and grease problems

5. Sunnyside Paint Thinner, Cleaner And Degreaser, Quart, 70132

This 100% mineral spirits product is a powerful and effective solution for thinning oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes. It has high solvency power and degreasing strength, making it ideal for removing tough stains and grime from various surfaces. However, it is important to note that this product is not available for sale in certain VOC restricted areas, including California.

If you are looking for a reliable and efficient way to thin your oil-based paints or clean your surfaces, this mineral spirits product is a great choice. It is easy to use and delivers impressive results, making it a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional painter.

Pros

  • 100% mineral spirits for effective thinning of oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes
  • High solvency power and degreasing strength for tough stains and grime removal
  • Easy to use and delivers impressive results
  • Ideal for DIY enthusiasts or professional painters

Cons

  • – Not available for sale in California and other VOC-restricted areas

6. Meguiar's D10801 Super Degreaser – 1 Gallon

The heavy-duty cleaning solution is specially designed for tackling the toughest jobs with ease. It is a fast-acting formula that quickly breaks down even the most stubborn grease. The residue-free performance ensures that there are no unsightly white residue stains left behind after cleaning. The solution has a pleasant herbal fragrance that leaves the area smelling fresh and clean. It is incredibly easy to use, simply spray on the affected area and wipe it off with a cloth or paper towel.

The cleaning solution is perfect for use in a variety of settings, from commercial kitchens to home workshops. It is ideal for cleaning countertops, stovetops, ovens, grills, and more. The formula is strong enough to tackle tough stains and grease, yet gentle enough to use on a variety of surfaces without causing damage. It is a must-have for anyone who wants a powerful and effective cleaning solution that gets the job done quickly and easily.

In summary, the heavy-duty cleaning solution is a powerful and effective formula that is perfect for tackling the toughest jobs. It is residue-free and has a pleasant herbal fragrance that leaves the area smelling fresh and clean. The solution is incredibly easy to use and is suitable for a variety of settings and surfaces.

Pros

  • Fast-acting formula quickly breaks down even the toughest grease
  • Residue-free performance prevents unsightly white residue stains
  • Pleasant herbal fragrance leaves the area smelling fresh and clean
  • Easy to use, simply spray on and wipe off
  • Suitable for use in a variety of settings and surfaces

7. Kw901 Auto Paint Prep Cleaner – Gallon

The KW901 – Grease and Wax Remover is a highly effective product that quickly dissolves and loosens surface contaminants such as grease, wax, tar, adhesive residue, tree sap, and silicones. This makes it easier to wipe away these contaminants from painted surfaces, metal, plastic, epoxy, and fiberglass. It is recommended to use before any bodywork or painting operation to ensure a clean quality surface and promote maximum paint adhesion.

This 1-gallon can of KW901 – Grease and Wax Remover Surface Prep Cleaner is perfect for use before and after sanding, leaving the surface clean and ready for topcoat application. It dries quickly with no residue, making it a great anti-static, anti-silicone panel wipe before painting. To use, simply apply the product with a clean, lint-free wiping cloth, using a separate wet cloth and a separate removal cloth.

Restoration Shop and Custom Shop have been providing innovative premium quality products to the automotive paint industry since 1974. Unlike many competitors, our products are proudly made in the USA. We formulate, manufacture, and distribute our own products throughout the USA, using only the highest quality ingredients. This allows our customers to consistently achieve professional high-quality results on their painting projects!

Pros

  • Quickly dissolves and loosens surface contaminants
  • Works on painted surfaces, metal, plastic, epoxy, and fiberglass
  • Leaves the surface clean and ready for topcoat application
  • Promotes maximum paint adhesion
  • Dries quickly with no residue
  • Great as an anti-static, anti-silicone panel wipe before painting

8. Resto-Kw9: Auto Grease/wax Prep Cleaner

The KW901 Grease and Wax Remover is a specially formulated product that quickly and effectively dissolves and loosens surface contaminants found on painted surfaces, such as grease, wax, tar, tree sap, adhesive residue, and silicones. It helps to ensure a clean, high-quality surface before any bodywork or painting operation, promoting maximum paint adhesion.

This fast-acting cleaner comes in a 1-quart can and dries quickly without leaving any residue behind. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including painted surfaces, metal, plastic, epoxy, and fiberglass. It is also great for use before and after sanding, leaving the surface clean and ready for topcoat application.

To use, simply apply the KW901 Grease and Wax Remover to the surface to be cleaned and wipe away with a clean, lint-free cloth. It is recommended to use a separate wet cloth and a separate removal cloth for best results. This product can also be used as an anti-static, anti-silicone panel wipe before painting.

Restoration Shop and Custom Shop have been providing innovative, premium-quality products to the automotive paint industry since 1974. Their products are proudly made in the USA and are formulated, manufactured, and distributed in-house, ensuring consistent quality and professional results on every painting project.

Pros

  • Fast-acting and effective at dissolving and loosening surface contaminants
  • Promotes maximum paint adhesion
  • Dries quickly with no residue
  • Can be used on a variety of surfaces
  • Great for use before and after sanding
  • Leaves the surface clean and ready for topcoat application
  • Can be used as an anti-static, anti-silicone panel wipe before painting
  • Premium-quality product made in the USA

9. Centaurus Az Acetone Cleaner & Brush Combo

The Klean-Strip Acetone is a heavy-duty degreaser that is perfect for industrial settings. It is a 100% pure solvent that is effective in removing paints, oil stains, and some super glues such as nail glues and gels. It is also highly versatile and can thin and clean fiberglass resins, making it an excellent cleanup solvent for fiberglass projects. The product evaporates quickly, leaving no residue and cleans up dried latex paint, uncured lacquers, and label adhesives.

One of the best things about the Klean-Strip Acetone is that it is low in VOC and is considered non-toxic, non-mutagenic, and non-carcinogenic, which makes it safe for humans and the environment. This is a strong and fast-acting solvent that does not cause cancer to humans and is presumed to be safe below certain exposure thresholds.

The Klean-Strip Acetone is a chemical compound that is widely used for industrial purposes, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, and disaster response. It is an excellent degreaser for heavy-duty mechanical parts that are treated with grease to provide a smooth buffer between moving parts in vehicles, production line equipment, large air distribution fans, and much more.

For added safety, the product is now bundled with chemical-resistant gloves from Centaurus AZ. It is important to follow the user instructions on the product before use to keep yourself and nature healthy.

Pros

  • 100% pure and effective in removing paints, oil stains, and some super glues
  • Low in VOC and considered non-toxic, non-mutagenic, and non-carcinogenic
  • Highly versatile and evaporates quickly, leaving no residue
  • Widely used for industrial purposes including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, and disaster response
  • Bundled with chemical-resistant gloves for added safety

10. Heated Wash Tank For Automotive Parts

The solvent tank parts washer is an ideal solution for cleaning tools and parts to perfection. It utilizes compressed air to spray heated cleaner into the solvent cabinet, making debris removal a breeze.

The chamber is fully enclosed, ensuring that no debris or cleaning solution leaks out. The lid is designed to sit inside the frame of the parts washer, making it impossible for loose debris to escape.

The fluorescent light inside the parts cleaner tub is a great addition to the washer as it illuminates all the nooks and crannies of the product and the parts washer solvent pump, making sure no debris remains.

The built-in fan at the back of the parts washer helps improve visibility by pulling mist and fumes out of the parts cleaner tank, making the cleaning process even more efficient.

With a 3.5-gallon reservoir, you don't have to worry about running out of cleaning solution while washing. The plastic reservoir sits underneath the parts cleaner, making it easy to refill when needed.

Pros

  • Uses compressed air for easy debris removal.
  • Fully enclosed chamber prevents debris and cleaning solution leaks.
  • Fluorescent light illuminates all the parts and the solvent pump.
  • Built-in fan improves visibility by pulling out mist and fumes.
  • 3.5-gallon reservoir ensures you don't have to refill often.

Best Degreaser For Car Paint FAQs

Are there any natural degreasers that are safe for car paint?

Yes, there are several natural degreasers that are safe for car paint. One such degreaser is vinegar, which is an effective cleaner that can cut through grease and grime without damaging the paint. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area.

Another natural degreaser that is safe for car paint is baking soda. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the greasy area. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean cloth. Baking soda is also effective in removing stubborn stains and odors from car interiors.

Citrus-based cleaners, such as orange oil or lemon juice, are also effective natural degreasers that are safe for car paint. These cleaners are gentle on the paint and can remove even the toughest grease and grime.

It is important to note that while these natural degreasers are safe for car paint, it is still important to test them on a small, inconspicuous area before using them on the entire car. This will help ensure that there are no adverse reactions or damage to the paint.

Can a degreaser damage car paint?

Yes, a degreaser can potentially damage car paint if it is not used properly. Degreasers are designed to remove stubborn dirt, grease, and grime from metal surfaces, but they can also strip away protective coatings on car paint if used incorrectly. Some degreasers are formulated with harsh chemicals that can react with the paint and cause it to fade, crack, or peel. Additionally, if a degreaser is left on the car paint for too long or applied too heavily, it can cause damage to the underlying layers of the paint. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a degreaser and to avoid using it on areas of the car that are not designed to withstand harsh chemicals. It's also a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the car paint before applying a degreaser to the entire surface to ensure that it won't cause any damage.

How often should I use a degreaser on my car's paint?

It is recommended to use a degreaser on your car's paint only when necessary, such as when there is heavy buildup of grime or grease on the surface. Overuse of degreasers can strip away the protective wax coating on your car's paint, making it more susceptible to damage and oxidation. It is important to choose a degreaser that is specifically formulated for use on automotive surfaces and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any potential damage. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly rinse the surface after using a degreaser to remove any remaining residue. Regular washing and waxing of your car's paint can also help to prevent the buildup of grime and grease and keep your car looking its best.

What are the benefits of using a degreaser on car paint?

Using a degreaser on car paint offers several benefits. Firstly, it helps to remove stubborn dirt and grime that may accumulate on the surface of the car. This is especially important for cars that are frequently used or parked in areas with high levels of pollution or dust. By removing these contaminants, the car's paint will look cleaner and brighter, giving it a fresh and polished appearance.

Secondly, a degreaser can help to remove oil and grease stains from the car's surface. This is particularly useful for cars that have been used for long periods, where oil and grease may have accumulated on the surface. By removing these stains, the car's paint will look smoother and more even, helping to maintain its appearance over time.

Finally, using a degreaser on car paint can also help to protect the surface from damage. By removing contaminants and stains, the car's paint will be less susceptible to damage from sunlight, rain, and other environmental factors. This means that the car's appearance will be maintained for longer, reducing the need for costly repairs or repainting in the future.

What is the best degreaser for car paint?

When it comes to degreasers for car paint, it is important to consider the type of paint and the level of grime or grease that needs to be removed. Generally, a strong degreaser that is safe for automotive use would be the best option. One popular choice is the Purple Stuff Degreaser by Super Clean. This degreaser is known for its powerful formula that can remove tough stains and grease without damaging the car's paint. Another option is the Meguiar's Super Degreaser, which is also highly effective in removing grease and grime from paint surfaces. It is important to note that some degreasers can be harsh on certain types of paint, so it is best to test a small area first before applying it to the entire car. Additionally, proper safety precautions should be taken when using degreasers, such as wearing gloves and eye protection.

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