14 Best Wax and Grease Removers for Painting Cars

Discover the best wax and grease remover for painting cars to ensure a flawless finish. Transform your projects with confidence and ease.
14 Best Wax and Grease Removers for Painting Cars

Top Quick Picks For You

Superior Budget Option

Dupli-Color

Dupli-Color

Dupli-Color VHT CM541 Grease/Wax Remover offers a great balance of performance and affordability, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for those looking to prep surfaces before painting.

Best for Fast Cleaning

Custom Shop KW901

Custom Shop KW901

KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All Wax and Grease Remover works rapidly on various surfaces, ensuring a thorough clean without lengthy wait times, making it ideal for quick projects.

Best Multi-Surface Use

KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All

KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All

KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All is specifically designed for compatibility with metal, plastic, and fiberglass, making it the best choice for users needing to prep multiple different surfaces.

Best for Maximum Adhesion

Eastwood Silicone Wax

Eastwood Silicone Wax

Eastwood Silicone Wax Polish Grease Dirt Remover promotes optimal paint adhesion, making it the top choice for ensuring a strong bond between the surface and the paint.

Best Wax and Grease Remover for Painting Cars

When it comes to prepping your vehicle for a vibrant new coat of paint, identifying the right wax and grease remover can transform a daunting task into a smooth, satisfying experience. With a plethora of options flooding the market, finding a product that efficiently eliminates years of grime while protecting your paintwork is essential. In this guide, we will unveil some of the finest contenders to ensure your car is ready to shine brighter than ever before.

Superior Budget Option: Dupli-Color

Dupli-Color VHT CM541 Grease/Wax Remover
GoodNot So Good
Dries quicklyMay strip paint
No residue leftSingle use formula
Promotes paint adhesionLimited local availability

When prepping for a car paint job, we all want a reliable companion, and that's where Dupli-Color VHT CM541 Grease/Wax Remover shines !

With its impressive ability to dry quickly and leave behind zero residue, this product ensures that your surfaces are primed for the ultimate paint adhesion .

We love that it's a budget-friendly choice without skimping on performance .

Just keep in mind that it’s a single-use formula, which may not be the best fit for those with multiple projects in mind .

Overall, this is the perfect first step in any paint venture!

Be sure to also check out the best wax remover for laminate floors for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Dupli-Color on Amazon

Best for Fast Cleaning: Custom Shop KW901

Restoration/Custom Shop KW901 - Automotive Grease and Wax Remover Surface Prep Cleaner for before Automobile Painting and all Painting Projects (Quart)
GoodNot So Good
Effective in surface prepStrong chemical smell
Works on various materialsNot effective on all stains
Promotes maximum paint adhesionRequires reapplication after use

We love the KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All Wax and Grease Remover for its impressive speed and effectiveness in surface preparation .

This product is a powerhouse, effortlessly dissolving grease, wax, and other contaminants on painted surfaces—perfect for those of us who thrive on minimal downtime during projects .

With just a quick wipe, it leaves surfaces clean and ready for a perfect topcoat application .

The only downside is its strong odor, so remember to use it in a well-ventilated area .

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable means to ensure maximum paint adhesion, this is our top pick!

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Price history for Custom Shop KW901 on Amazon

Best Multi-Surface Use: KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All

KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All Wax and Grease Remover, Multi-Surface Paint Prep Cleaner, Effective for Auto Body, Garage, 1 Gallon
GoodNot So Good
High-efficiency formulaSpot testing required
Multi-surface compatibilityOptimal conditions needed
Generous bulk supplyLimited availability

When it comes to prepping surfaces for a flawless paint job, KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All stands out as our pick for "Best Multi-Surface Use." This high-efficiency formula delivers impressive results on metal, plastic, and fiberglass, making it versatile for any project .

We love that it comes in a generous 1-gallon size, perfect for larger gigs or multiple smaller ones .

Just remember to spot test for compatibility and apply it under the right conditions (65ºF to 90ºF, away from direct sunlight) .

With a stellar rating of 4.8 stars, you can trust this product to set the stage for your painting success!

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Price history for KLEAN-STRIP Prep-All on Amazon

Best for Maximum Adhesion: Eastwood Silicone Wax

Eastwood Silicone Wax Polish Grease Dirt Remover Final Finish Aerosol 30 Oz
GoodNot So Good
Effective for adhesive removalNot available in California
Promotes paint adhesionMisleading spray advertisement
Easy spray-on applicationLimited to certain uses

Eastwood Silicone Wax Polish Grease Dirt Remover has earned our title for "Best for Maximum Adhesion", and it’s easy to see why !

This product excels at removing pesky silicone, wax, polish, and grease—essential for achieving that perfect paint job .

Its easy spray-on, wipe-off application means you can prep your surfaces without breaking a sweat .

Plus, it promotes optimal paint and powder adhesion, ensuring a strong bond that keeps your work looking fresh and vibrant .

Just a heads up: it’s not available for shipping to California due to state regulations .

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for anyone serious about getting their painting right!

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Price history for Eastwood Silicone Wax on Amazon

Rust-Oleum Wax and Tar Remover

Rust-Oleum Automotive 251475 32-Ounce Wax and Tar Remover Quart
GoodNot So Good
Effective adhesive removalNeeds time and agitation
Easy to use squirt bottleLess effective than industrial options
Safe for auto finishesMay cause finish discoloration

When it comes to prepping your car for a fresh coat of paint, the RUST-OLEUM REMOVER WAX & TAR is a solid contender .

We love how this handy 32 oz squirt bottle makes application a breeze .

Just spray on, give it a little love with agitation, and watch as old wax, grease, and tar vanish !

While it might take a bit longer than industrial alternatives, its gentle formula is safe for auto finishes—a definite plus for any DIY enthusiast .

However, be mindful that it may cause slight discoloration, so a patch test is wise .

Overall, we're impressed by its performance!

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Price history for Rust-Oleum Wax and Tar Remover on Amazon

Malco Nano Care Wax

Malco Nano Care Banana Creme Wax - Deep Gloss Shine and Long-Lasting UV Protection/For Automotive, Marine and Industrial Finishes / 32 oz. (197732)
GoodNot So Good
Easy application and removalLimited shine on plastic
Deep, lustrous glossRequires initial cleaning
Long-lasting UV protectionMay not suit all finishes

We can’t get enough of Malco Nano Care Banana Crème Wax !

This fabulous formula offers a deep, lustrous gloss that transforms your vehicle's finish into a shiny masterpiece .

With its nano-technology, we found the application and removal process to be a breeze—perfect for those of us who want to save time while achieving professional results .

Plus, the long-lasting UV protection is a bonus that helps shield your car from sun damage .

Did we mention it smells like bananas ?

While it might not shine up plastic as well, it’s an excellent choice for automotive finishes overall !

Give your ride the care it deserves.

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Price history for Malco Nano Care Wax on Amazon

Malco Cherry Flash Wax and Grease Remover for Painting Cars

Malco Cherry Flash Automotive Liquid Paste Wax – Protect & Shine Your Vehicle/Easiest Way to Hand Wax Your Car/Lasting Gloss & Protection For Cars, Trucks, Boats and Motorcycles / 32 Oz. (124832)
GoodNot So Good
User-friendly applicationNot thick consistency
No staining on trimDurability untested long-term
Long-lasting glossy finishScent may not please all

When it comes to getting your vehicle ready for a fresh coat of paint, we highly recommend Malco's Cherry Flash Liquid Wax .

This product boasts an easy application—whether you’re a fan of hand waxing or prefer the efficiency of an orbital buffer .

We loved that it doesn’t stain trims or rubber, making cleanup a breeze .

The end result ?

A long-lasting, glossy finish that truly shines .

While the consistency might not be as thick as some would prefer, this liquid paste is user-friendly and effective .

Just be aware that its scent may not be to everyone’s taste .

Enjoy the shine!

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Price history for Malco Cherry Flash on Amazon

Eastwood Surface Preparation Wax

Eastwood Silicone Surface Preparation Wax Polish Grease Dirt Remover | Automotive Painting Pre-Prep Spray Solution | Easy to Use Spray On Application
GoodNot So Good
Effective surface cleaningMay require multiple rags
Enhances paint adhesionA bit expensive
User-friendly applicationDifficult for novices

When it comes to prepping your vehicle for a fresh coat of paint, we can’t overlook the Eastwood Silicone Surface Preparation Wax Polish Grease Dirt Remover Spray .

This powerhouse effortlessly wipes away silicone, wax, and grease, ensuring we start with a clean slate .

What’s more, it actively promotes optimized paint adhesion, meaning fewer flakes down the line .

The user-friendly aerosol design makes it ideal for anyone looking to streamline their prep work, even if you need to have a few rags on hand .

While it leans toward the pricier side, this spray is a worthy investment for anyone serious about their automotive projects.

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Price history for Eastwood Surface Preparation Wax on Amazon

3D Bug Remover

3D Bug Remover - All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic, Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Suitable for use on Car Paint, Wax & Clear Coat (Gallon)
GoodNot So Good
Easy spray and rinseSmall 16oz size
Safe on multiple surfacesNot aggressive on tough spots
Pleasant scentLimited effectiveness on stubborn residue

When it comes to tackling those pesky bug splatters and tree sap, we’ve found that the 3D Bug Remover truly delivers .

This all-purpose cleaner is designed for both interior and exterior surfaces, making it a versatile choice for your car, RV, or even your motorcycle .

With just a quick spray and rinse, we love how it eases away stubborn messes without the need for scrubbing—a huge plus for us! Plus, the pleasant scent makes the cleaning process more enjoyable .

While its 16oz size might feel a tad small, this product has garnered an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 5,000 users .

Just keep in mind that it may not tackle the most tenacious grime, but for everyday clean-ups, we think it’s a fantastic option!

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Price history for 3D Bug Remover on Amazon

Dupli-Color Prep Grease and Wax Remover Wax and Grease Remover for Painting Cars

Dupli-Color EPS100000 Prep Grease and Wax Remover Automotive Spray Paint Primer - 11 oz. Aerosol Can
GoodNot So Good
Effective surface preparationMay require respirator
Fast-drying formulaPotentially harsh ingredients
Long-lasting performanceNo straws included

When it comes to prepping your vehicle for a fresh coat of paint, Dupli-Color Automotive Spray Paint Prep-Spray shines as a top choice .

We were impressed by its fast-drying formula, which allowed us to get right into painting without the wait .

This product excels at removing wax, grease, and oil, ensuring a clean surface for a smooth finish .

However, we recommend using a respirator, as the ingredients can be a bit harsh .

Overall, Dupli-Color has been producing quality solutions since 1938, and this primer paint is a testament to their commitment to maximizing your project’s performance.

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Price history for Dupli-Color Prep Grease and Wax Remover on Amazon

ProductionShop GWR440

GWR440 - Automotive Grease and Wax Remover Surface Prep Cleaner for before Automobile Painting and all Painting Projects (Gallon)
GoodNot So Good
Fast acting and effectiveRequires separate cloths
Promotes maximum paint adhesionNot suitable for all surfaces
Works on multiple surfacesMay need multiple applications

When it comes to prepping your car for a fresh paint job, we can’t recommend the Grease and Wax Remover enough !

This fast-acting formula swiftly dissolves grease, wax, and other pesky contaminants that can mess with your finish .

We found it especially effective on painted surfaces, metal, and even fiberglass, ensuring a clean slate for that perfect topcoat .

While it does require separate cloths for application, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by its quick-drying nature and the spotless results it delivers .

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, this remover is a must-have for achieving that showroom shine.

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Price history for ProductionShop GWR440 on Amazon

Custom Shop KW901

Custom Shop Restoration KW901 - Automotive Grease and Wax Remover Surface Prep Cleaner for before Automobile Painting and all Painting Projects (Gallon)
GoodNot So Good
Fast acting formulationPricey compared to others
No residue after dryingBottle may arrive damaged
Works on multiple surfacesRequires multiple cloths

With KW901 - Grease and Wax Remover, we've discovered a true gem for anyone tackling car painting .

This fast-acting formulation is a powerhouse at dissolving contaminants like grease, tar, and adhesive residue, leaving surfaces pristine and ready for that beautiful topcoat .

We love how it works wonders on painted surfaces, metal, and even fiberglass !

Plus, it dries without leaving any residue behind .

Just make sure to have some lint-free cloths handy, as it requires a two-cloth method for optimal results .

While it may be a bit pricier than others, the quality is definitely worth it.

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Price history for Custom Shop KW901 on Amazon

Chemical Guys Trim Clean Wax and Grease Remover for Painting Cars

Chemical Guys TVD11516 Trim Clean Wax and Oil Remover (Works on Trim, Tires, and Rubber) Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles, RVs & More, 16 fl oz
GoodNot So Good
Easy to useMay require multiple applications
Effectively removes stainsNot always effective on old stains
Restores trim appearanceInstructions can be confusing

When it comes to tackling wax stains on your car's trim, Trim Clean by Chemical Guys is a standout choice .

We’ve found it remarkably effective at erasing past mistakes, effortlessly restoring that natural look to textured plastic and rubber parts .

With just a simple application and a little agitation, we watched those stubborn chalky marks disappear !

While it may require a few applications for older stains, the results are worth it .

The world-class reputation of Chemical Guys means you're not just buying a product; you're embracing a lifestyle dedicated to car care .

So why put off those repairs ?

Grab Trim Clean and wave goodbye to ugly stains!

Be sure to also check out the best clear coat remover for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Chemical Guys Trim Clean on Amazon

CLR Automotive Grease Remover

CLR Brands® Automotive Grease Tar & Oil Remover, 22 Oz Spray
GoodNot So Good
Industrial strength cleaningRequires soaking time
Fast acting formulaCost may be high
Non-corrosive and safeInconsistent results reported

CLR's Industrial Strength Cleaner is a game changer for car enthusiasts like us .

This powerful, fast-acting degreaser tackles even the toughest oil, grease, and tar with ease .

Just apply it, let it soak, and rinse—who doesn’t love a no-fuss cleaning routine ?

We love that it's non-corrosive and safe for the environment, thanks to its water-based formula .

The lack of harmful VOCs means it won't damage nearby vegetation .

However, keep in mind that it may need a bit of soaking time and can be a tad pricier than some competitors .

Overall, it's a solid choice for serious cleaning!

Be sure to also check out the best rail dust remover for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for CLR Automotive Grease Remover on Amazon

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