how to remove dealership decal from car

That shiny new car in your driveway is a source of pride, a reflection of your style. But right there on the trunk or bumper is a plastic advertisement for the dealership you bought it from. For many drivers, this free branding is an eyesore they’d rather do without. The good news is that taking control of your car’s clean look is a simple and satisfying project you can do at home.

Learning how to remove dealership decal from car surfaces is easier than you might think. With a few common household items and a little patience, you can erase that unwanted logo and restore a sleek, professional finish to your vehicle’s paint.

The Simple Method for Removing a Dealership Decal

Most dealership decals are simply vinyl stickers. The easiest and safest removal technique uses heat to soften the adhesive. On a warm, sunny day, park your car in direct sunlight for an hour or two. The sun’s heat will warm the decal, making it more pliable. If it’s not sunny, you can use a hairdryer on a medium heat setting. Gently wave it back and forth over the decal for a minute or two, being careful not to overheat one spot.

Once the decal is warm, start at one corner. Use your fingernail or a plastic pry tool to slowly lift the edge. The goal is to peel the decal off in one piece, pulling it back on itself at a low, 45-degree angle. If it starts to tear or resist, apply more heat and try again. Slow and steady wins the race here.

Dealing with Stubborn Adhesive Residue

After the decal is off, you’ll often be left with a sticky, gummy outline. This is the old adhesive, and it’s completely normal. The best way to tackle this is with an adhesive remover. Products like Goo Gone are specifically designed for this task. Apply a small amount to a clean, soft microfiber cloth and rub it over the residue in a circular motion.

Let it sit for a minute to break down the glue, then wipe it away. You can also use rubbing alcohol or even a small amount of cooking oil as a gentler alternative. Always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your car’s paint first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.

Finishing the Job for a Flawless Look

Once all the adhesive is gone, you’ll likely see a faint outline where the decal was. This is just a difference in paint exposure. The area under the decal will be like new, while the surrounding paint has been slightly faded by the sun. To blend this, give the entire area a good wash with car soap and water.

Follow up with a gentle polish and wax. This will clean, protect, and help the paint tones even out over time. Soon, that dealership decal will be a distant memory, and your car will have the clean, ad-free finish it deserves.