The paints used now days are thermoset (such as base clear) instead of thermoplastic. Which means that they won't re-flow or come off. The thermoplastic (Laquer) Will reflow with any solvents even gasolene. You should be alright to use a thinner but I would try it in an inconspicious place first and see what happens.

 

To be safe I would go with a bug and tar remover and then some detailing clay if you are really picky...

 

Most bug and tar removers are nothing but kerosene. Just more expensive.

Factory paint is a lot tougher with chemicals than you think.

Now, don't get crazy and use brake cleaner, LOL!

 

Actually, just plain old kerosene works the best. The paints these days are alcohol based and won't disolve with petroleum, just wipe it off right away like Kenni said, then wax.

 

i have heard baby oil will take it off with some effort. i think i have tried it and it did work but i dont remember. it wont hurt the paint though.

 

WD-40, softens up the tar & stuff. Let sit, wipe off. Served me well for 40 years.

 

any all purpose cleaner. megs d103 optimum power clean and others will work. they will get the most of it off then you should clay bar it and tada.

 

Oh, they are so nice. We have one that has about the most power that you can get in a power washer, and it just takes things right off. Anyone that farms or does agricultural things, we had rust on the combine from wheat harvest, and that took it right off. So we don't worry much with other things. We have trucks that travel on oil company lease roads all the time, and they pick up all of the oil and residue that the companies dump out on the roads. There is nothing behind the tires on the trucks. Just your generic brand car cleaner, some good hard scrubbing, and a good power washer takes it all right off.