Removing permanent marker (Sharpie) from paint

[eilros]

Some low-life punk POS wrote on my Vibe with a permanent marker. Is there a way to remove the marker without destroying the paint?Thanks,Dave

[engineertwin2]

If it was waxed recently, you may try to use a rubbing compound to remove the wax...I'd try calling a local professional car wash...they typically have products that aren't available to us that may help out...good luck...

[joatmon]

I'd try rubbing alcohol and then rewax the area

[engineertwin2]

A quick google search also suggested that perhaps rubbing alcohol might help - although I make no promises your paint will stay. I'd try a handy-wipe in an inconspicuous area (engine bay maybe) to see if you get paint transfer to the cloth...if not, give it a try...EDIT: joatmoan - you just beat me..slipped in the answer while I was typing it in there! So what he said...

[joatmon]

yeah, I don't know what the alcohol would do to the paint, but it would "probably" be ok. Could also try an automotive hand cleaner, but make sure it's the kind without pumice. Also, I used goo gone to get the last bit of goo off when I debadged my car, and the paint did not seem to be affected, so that might be another option. but anything that will take the sharpie off will probably take off the wax too.You won the race though. ( Next time, silently edit the first reply, then anybody who looks at it later would think that I was just echoing what you had already said. )

[zionzr2]

rubbing alcohol shouldnt harm the paint as i have uesd it to prep for decals. The thing to rember is that it does remove the wax. so you will want to rewax once the sharpie is removed. You may also try Bug and Tar remover again you will need to rewax after this product as well. (I believe they are usuing simialr solvents to remove the sharpie)

[4X4CHICHI]

I have used Dykem remover, almost any machine shop will have some and probably let you use a dab. wipe quick and rewax right away. If you rub hard enough it will get to the paint, so be careful.

[CAN-AWD-VIBE]

i've never tried but i just watched a commercial for the Mr. Clean magic eraser and it took out the marker... not that i believe everything i see on tv but it might be worth a shot.i can vouch for them cleaning marker and other stuff off of walls and floors. I'm not about to sharpie up the car though to find out how well it works on cars.

[eilros]

Thanks for the replies. Sorry for waiting so long to say thanks. I've been without the net for almost two weeks!!

[engineertwin2]

Did you try anything yet? Let us know what you tried and if it works...we'll need to keep this in the inventory of mostly useless trivia (unless you are in the business of exporting "low-life punk POS'" to various parts of the northern hemisphere)...

[eilros]

I used Klasse All-in-One and the marker came right off.

[keithvibe]

I heard a rumor that WD-40 will take it off as well. Haven't had to try that first hand though. Just a rumor

[ragingfish]

You could try claybar too...that takes off a lot of crud. Make sure you rewax after though...