Remove Stickers & Glue from Car Safely & Easily

Remove Stickers & Glue from Car Safely & Easily

Subject: How to Create 04 February 2025
Oguzhan Product specialist

A sticker on your car can be a fun addition—until you want to remove it. An old promotion, a child’s sticker on the window, or remnants of double-sided tape: removing stickers and leftover adhesive requires the right approach. After all, you don’t want to damage the car’s paint and you want the surface to be left clean.

In this blog article, you’ll learn how to safely remove stickers and adhesive from your car. We explain which tools to use, how to proceed, and what to watch out for to keep your paint in top condition.

Why stickers are hard to remove

Car stickers are often made to last. They’re made from durable vinyl and feature a strong adhesive layer that can withstand wind, rain, sun, and car washes. That’s helpful while the sticker is in place, but it makes removal more difficult. Especially adhesive residue tends to stick around stubbornly.

A wrong approach—such as scraping with a blade or using harsh chemicals—can cause scratches or paint damage. Fortunately, there are special products that prevent this.

The right method: removing stickers with a rubber (caramel) wheel

One of the most effective and safest methods to remove stickers and adhesive residue is using a rubber (caramel) wheel. This is a round wheel made of natural rubber, specifically developed to remove stickers without damaging the surface underneath.

You can easily attach the rubber wheel to a cordless drill or an angle grinder. The rotating motion removes both the sticker and the glue underneath without scratching or discoloring the car paint.

Preparation: start with a clean surface

Before you begin, it’s important to make sure the surface is clean and dry. Dirt or sand particles can still cause scratches during the process. Use a mild car shampoo and a soft cloth to clean the area. Ideally, work in the shade or indoors so the paint doesn't get too hot.

How to use the rubber wheel step by step

  • Mount the rubber wheel onto your drill or angle grinder. Make sure it’s securely attached.
  • Set the RPM to around 2000 to 4000. Too high can cause overheating; too low may not be effective.
  • Hold the wheel perpendicular to the surface and don’t apply pressure—let the tool do the work.
  • Move slowly and evenly across the sticker or adhesive residue. Within seconds, the sticker will lift and the glue will dissolve.
  • After removal: clean the area again using a degreaser or car shampoo to eliminate any final residue.

What to do if only glue remains

Sometimes the sticker is already gone, but stubborn glue residue remains. A rubber wheel also works great in these cases. The rubber won’t damage the paint but is strong enough to safely remove the glue.

You can also use an adhesive remover as a final step. Be sure to choose a product that’s safe for car paint, like those from CROP, and avoid solvents such as acetone or turpentine.

Choose quality: CROP Double-Speed Rubber Wheel

At CROP, you’ll find various rubber wheels, including the CROP Double-Speed Rubber Wheel. This version is specially designed for heavy-duty use:

  • Serrated rubber helps reduce heat buildup
  • Lasts up to 3x longer than standard versions
  • Suitable for paint, glass, acrylic, and plastic
  • Easy to use with a (cordless) drill

Thanks to these features, the Double-Speed wheel is ideal for both home and professional use.

Finishing and protecting the paint

After removing stickers and glue, it’s important to properly finish the surface. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a microfiber cloth. For extra shine and protection, you can polish or apply a paint sealant. This keeps your paint clean and protected against future dirt and discoloration.

Summary: fast, safe and scratch-free

Removing stickers and glue from your car doesn’t have to be frustrating. With the right preparation and a high-quality rubber wheel, like the ones from CROP, you can do it quickly, safely, and without damage. Use the proper products and take your time to do it carefully.

Ready to get started? Check out our range of rubber wheels and adhesive removers in the webshop and choose the solution that best fits your needs.