I have a dark green 2001 LESABRE. After being driven into on the side , I have rubber deposits and rubber scuff marks on my rear door. Is there a way of removing them without affecting the paint finish? Thank you- Bob
First try non abrasive options to remove the rubber. I’d start with a “tar remover” product. Spray it on and let is sit on the scuff marks for a bit then rub it off. It might take several attempts.
Since the scuffing may have damaged the clearcoat if non abrasive methods don’t work then you can get some old time “Rubbing Compound” and use that to remove the scuffs. This is an abrasive paste and will scratch the clearcoat paint. After the scuffs are gone then you’ll need to apply some good car wax and buff it out. To keep the area looking decent you’ll have to clean and hand wax the area every couple of months from then on.
I’ve been using Meguiars Cleaner wax for 25 years with no problems. It’s pretty good at removing light scratches and scuff marks. It might take a little more effort but won’t hurt the paint. Use a foam pad to apply the wax.
http://www.meguiarsdirect.com/product_detail.asp?T1=MEG+A1216
An alternative is Turtle Wax Bug and Tar removal followed by a wax.
Ed B.
Thank you very much- I’ll give it a try!
Did the other driver have insurance? If so, and you have an accident report clarifying liability, let a good body shop so the work. If not, then try the other recommendations. I’ve used Bug & Tar remover successfully many times for these type of problems.
Thanks for info. I did get a seetlement for $1500. Car has 113,000 miles, and could use other repairs, more than $1500. The pushed-in lower door is not that noticeable- dark green- and without scuffs, I believe, will look fair to a casual observer. At 65 miles per hour RTE 95 a passing lane car pulled into me . The nose of the car was at the rear of the driver window. After regaining control, my firat thought was of road rage. He got a warning for not maintaining his lane. Noone injured. Thanks again Bob
I agree with your approach but wouldn’t jump right to rubbing compound- the most abrasive compound. I’d go in this sequence; solvent (e.g. mineral spirits), clay bar, polishing compound and finally rubbing compound as a last resort.
I’ve used WD-40 and one of those scratch “removers” liquids with good,if not great results.
Rubbing compound? Ugh.