Gas spilled down the side

[Jeff120]

I was filling up today and for whatever reason the pump didnt click off, so some spilled down the side. It about 15-20 degrees here so I didnt bother to wipe it off as it will probably just spread and freeze anyway. My question is how bad is it really for the paint? Everytime I do this I freak out! I assume it probably strips off my wax, but other then that what damage can it do.

[Shane731]

It's not going to hurt anything, but I would take a waterless or rinseless wash and clean that area as soon as possible.

[Mike Phillips]

I've never seen it harm a clear coat finish as long as it's removed in a timely manner and not left to dwell in a repeated manner.

For example,

Everything you get gas it spills onto the paint and every time you do nothing.


So wash or wipe the affected area and if you want to be extra cautious, use a light polish, paint cleaner or even cleaner/wax to thoroughly clean the surface. If you use a polish or paint cleaner, be sure to apply some wax or paint sealant. A cleaner/wax will clean, polish and protect in one step.


With single stage paints, because the paint is more porous, repeated spill will stain the paint.

[Shawn T.]

Whatever you do don''t let the attendants wipe it off. An attendant leaked gas on my former MINI and used a bunch of paper towels to scrub the gas off the paint. Man, was that some ugly marring.

[RTexasF]

You MUST lick it off to prevent harm! Yes, I'm being silly. As Mike said,

So wash or wipe the affected area and if you want to be extra cautious, use a light polish, paint cleaner or even cleaner/wax to thoroughly clean the surface. If you use a polish or paint cleaner, be sure to apply some wax or paint sealant. A cleaner/wax will clean, polish and protect in one step.

It happens to all of us, no big deal.

[Jeff120]

Thanks, I really didnt figure it was a big deal, but for some reason I always FREAK out when it happens. Thanks again!