How do i know if i have tar build up (black car)

[kaboose786]

Hey everyone i have a silver car and when i wash my car i cant tell if theres tar so i use tar remover to get rid of it. But recently i washed my brothers black car and i found it 10 times harder to detail and wash because it is really hard to see defects or other stuff on black paint specially tar, bugs etc so is there an easier way or any advice?
thx

[RobRabbit2.5]

Hey there. I have found that if you hold a flashlight so it is almost parallel with the surface of the cars paint and shine it at a slight angle down at the surface it will show you the defects much easier.

This technique is also useful for finding items dropped on the floor. Turn flashlight on and lay it on the floor. If you angle it down correctly it will make things cast a shadow and thus easier to spot.

Same technique for the car is helpful. For noticing tar and buildup that is similar. Hope this helps.

[Mike lambert]

Use a clay bar,or just do the Baggie test

[DaHen]

I usually give the rocker panels and fenders behind the wheels a quick shot of Tarminator on the black car anyway.
Sure enough, when I wipe it off, it will show some tar on the rag. :xyxthumbs:

[Kurtopia]

Pre-soak the lower panels with a bug/tar remover.