best solvent for tar: Best Solvents for Tar: Top 10 Solutions Tested 2025

I’ve been there – staring at my car, tools, or even a patch of concrete, dismayed by stubborn tar spots. It’s a frustrating mess, isn’t it? After countless hours of scrubbing and trying different concoctions, I’ve learned that having the best solvent for tar can make all the difference. This isn’t just about what works; it’s about finding an effective, safe, and efficient solution that gets the job done without damaging your valuable surfaces. I’ve personally put a variety of options through their paces, and I’m here to share the top performers that truly excel at dissolving those sticky, black stains.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Gtechniq – W7 Tar and Glue Remover – Full Strength…	View on Amazon
	Trick Shot Asphalt Solvent and Cleaner – Biodegradable…	View on Amazon
	KOCHCHEMIE Koch-Chemie -Teerwäsche A (Tea) – 1 Liter -…	View on Amazon
	Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover, 32 floz (Pack of 4),…	View on Amazon
	3M Adhesive Remover 12 oz (Pack of 6) – Low…	View on Amazon
	Safe Clean High Purity Solvent – Non-Flammable,…	View on Amazon
	Zep Big Orange-E Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser Aerosol – 15…	View on Amazon
	KROIL Kano Floway Industrial Cleaner Degreaser (Liquid-1…	View on Amazon
	KROIL Kano Floway Industrial Cleaner Degreaser (Liquid-13oz…	View on Amazon
	Zep Big Orange Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser Aerosol – 15…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

1. Gtechniq – W7 Tar and Glue Remover – Full Strength

When those annoying tar spots appear on my car’s paintwork, I reach for Gtechniq W7. This powerful cleaner makes quick work of tar and glue residue, often dissolving it almost instantly right before my eyes. It’s fantastic for keeping my vehicle’s finish pristine, especially since it’s designed to be safe on most protective coatings, waxes, and sealants. Just remember to avoid PPF or wrapped surfaces!

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Cleaning Action: Effortlessly and almost instantly dissolves tar, glue spots, and residue.
– Coating Safe: Formulated not to damage existing protective coatings, waxes, and sealants.
– Easy Application: Simply spray on, let it dwell for a few minutes, and rinse off.
– Advanced Technology: Developed by a quantum physicist, leveraging molecular nanotechnology.

Pros:
– Highly effective on tar and glue.
– Safe for most automotive finishes and coatings.
– Quick and easy to use.
Cons: Not suitable for all surfaces like PPF or some plastics.
Best for: Automotive paintwork and wheels with protective coatings.
Expert Opinion: This product truly lives up to its “full strength” claim, providing rapid and thorough tar removal without compromising vehicle finishes, making it a go-to for detailers.

2. Trick Shot Asphalt Solvent and Cleaner – Biodegradable

For industrial-level tar removal, especially from equipment, Trick Shot is a standout. What really impresses me is its biodegradable, food-grade formula – a huge win for safety and the environment compared to harsh petroleum-based options. It tackles even the most stubborn, hardened asphalt deposits on tools, breaking down complex hydrocarbons with remarkable efficiency.

Key features that stand out:
– Environmentally Friendly: Biodegradable, non-toxic, food-grade formula.
– Powerful Asphalt Remover: Penetrates and breaks down even years-old hardened deposits.
– Versatile Application: Can be sprayed, dipped, or rinsed, making it suitable for various tools and equipment.
– Protective Barrier: Creates an asphalt release barrier to prevent future adhesion and extend tool lifespan.

Pros:
– Eco-friendly and safe formula.
– Extremely effective on heavy asphalt and tar buildup on equipment.
– Offers a protective barrier for easier future cleaning.
Cons: Not intended for driveways or concrete.
Best for: Cleaning paving tools, industrial equipment, and truck beds.
Expert Opinion: Trick Shot redefines industrial cleaning by offering powerful performance without the environmental compromise, making it ideal for professional contractors seeking a safer, more sustainable best solvent for tar for their machinery.

3. KOCHCHEMIE Koch-Chemie -Teerwäsche A (Tea) – 1 Liter

Koch-Chemie Teerwäsche A is a pro-grade solvent that I often turn to for more than just tar. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for road fallout, tree sap, and sticker residue, proving its versatility on various surfaces including interior plastics. Its formulation is free from halogenated hydrocarbons, which is a big plus for safety and environmental consciousness.

Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Purpose Remover: Effective for tar, tree sap, sticker residue, and road fallout (bitumen).
– Safe on Various Surfaces: Suitable for all solvent-resistant surfaces, including interior plastics, cars, trucks, boats, and motorcycles.
– Health Conscious: Free from halogenated hydrocarbons and NTA.
– Professional Grade: Backed by Koch-Chemie’s expertise in high-quality cleaning products since 1968.

Pros:
– Excellent for multiple types of stubborn residues.
– Safe for a wide range of surfaces, including sensitive interior plastics.
– Professional quality and reliable performance.
Cons: Can be a bit pricey compared to some general-purpose removers.
Best for: Automotive detailing, comprehensive tar, sap, and sticker removal.
Expert Opinion: Koch-Chemie’s offering is a testament to German engineering, providing a potent yet safe solution for a broad spectrum of sticky contaminants, securing its place as a top-tier best solvent for tar in any detailer’s arsenal.

4. Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover, 32 floz (Pack of 4)

I was pleasantly surprised by the versatility of Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover. It’s not just a tar remover for cars; it’s a dry cleaning spray for upholstery, a fabric stain remover, and even safe for wood floors! This multi-use solvent makes short work of oils, grease, lipstick, and yes, tar, without fading or shrinking fine fabrics.

Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Use Solution: Serves as a tar remover, upholstery dry cleaner, fabric spot remover, and general solvent cleaner.
– Powerful Cleaning: Effectively removes oils, grease, lipstick, tar, grime, and stains.
– Surface Versatility: Safe on upholstery, fine fabrics, clothes, wood floors, ceramic, and automotive surfaces.
– Fabric Safe: Will not fade, shrink, or remove pleats from fine fabrics.

Pros:
– Extremely versatile for both automotive and household cleaning.
– Safe on delicate fabrics.
– Trusted brand with over 80 years of history.
Cons: Might require more effort for extremely heavy tar deposits on vehicles.
Best for: General household stains, upholstery, and light automotive tar removal.
Expert Opinion: This solvent offers incredible value as a jack-of-all-trades, making it an indispensable item for both car care and household stain emergencies, truly earning its reputation as a flexible and best solvent for tar for multiple uses.

5. 3M Adhesive Remover 12 oz (Pack of 6)

When I’m dealing with serious adhesive residue or old, baked-on tar, 3M Adhesive Remover is a lifesaver. This professional-strength solvent dissolves tough gunk without the need for aggressive scrubbing, which means less risk to surfaces. I particularly appreciate its low VOC formula and the fact that it leaves no greasy film or lingering chemical odor – a big win for user comfort and a clean finish.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional-Strength: Fast-acting solvent dissolves tough adhesive residue, tape film, tar, and wax.
– Multi-Surface Safe: Blend of solvents won’t harm most automotive paint finishes, glass, vinyl, and metal.
– Low VOC & CARB-Compliant: Special formula contains under 20% VOCs, reducing fumes and meeting strict environmental standards.
– No Residue or Scent: Leaves surfaces clean with no greasy film or staining, and is unscented.

Pros:
– Highly effective on tar and adhesive.
– Safe for a wide variety of automotive and household surfaces.
– Low odor and leaves no residue.
Cons: Comes in a pack of six, which might be more than some users need.
Best for: Removing adhesives, stubborn tar, and wax from automotive and household surfaces.
Expert Opinion: 3M has delivered a robust, professional-grade adhesive and tar remover that prioritizes both efficacy and user safety, making it a reliable choice for persistent sticky situations and a strong contender for the title of best solvent for tar.

6. Safe Clean High Purity Solvent – Non-Flammable

For delicate situations involving electrical equipment, Safe Clean High Purity Solvent is my top pick. Its non-flammable formulation is crucial for safety around electronics, and it expertly dissolves grease, oil, and tar without leaving any residue. The powerful flush action valve ensures thorough cleaning, even in hard-to-reach areas like motor windings.

Key features that stand out:
– Non-Flammable: Formulated for safe use on electrical equipment and machinery.
– Dissolves Various Soils: Quickly and effectively dissolves grease, oil, tar, and other soils.
– Residue-Free: Leaves surfaces clean without any film or residue.
– Powerful Flush Action: Ensures thorough cleaning with a strong spray, ideal for intricate parts.

Pros:
– Non-flammable, ensuring safety on electrical components.
– Excellent at dissolving tough contaminants without residue.
– Powerful spray for effective cleaning in tight spaces.
Cons: Primarily designed for industrial and electrical use, may not be ideal for automotive paint.
Best for: Cleaning electrical equipment, machinery, tools, and industrial components.
Expert Opinion: When safety around sensitive electrical components is paramount, Safe Clean’s non-flammable, high-purity solvent is an unrivaled choice for dissolving tar and other contaminants, standing out as a specialized best solvent for tar in industrial settings.

7. Zep Big Orange-E Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser Aerosol

Zep Big Orange-E is a powerful, professional-strength degreaser that harnesses the power of citrus. I’ve found it incredibly effective at cutting through grease, oil, and surprisingly, even tar, especially on industrial surfaces. The fact that it’s biodegradable and safe for use around food-contact surfaces adds to its appeal, making it a versatile option for various professional environments.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional-Strength: Heavy-duty, citrus-based degreaser for tough soils.
– Effective Degreasing: Removes grease, oil, and other stubborn contaminants efficiently.
– Environmentally Conscious: Contains no chlorinated solvents or CFCs, and is biodegradable.
– Food-Contact Safe: Safe for use around food-contact surfaces.

Pros:
– Strong cleaning power with a pleasant citrus scent.
– Biodegradable and safer for the environment.
– Versatile for industrial and commercial use.
Cons: May be too strong for delicate painted automotive surfaces without prior testing.
Best for: Industrial degreasing, machinery, and tough stains on unpainted surfaces.
Expert Opinion: Zep Big Orange-E offers a robust, eco-friendlier approach to heavy-duty cleaning, demonstrating that natural citrus power can be a highly effective and professional-grade best solvent for tar for industrial applications.

8. KROIL Kano Floway Industrial Cleaner Degreaser (Liquid-1 Gallon)

Kroil Kano Floway is another industrial-grade cleaner that truly lives up to its name. In its gallon liquid form, it provides a powerful grease-cutting solvent that penetrates and dissolves a wide variety of tough substances, including tar, asphalt, and carbon. What’s impressive is its safety on painted surfaces, making it great for cleaning heavy equipment and automotive engines without fear of damage.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Grease Cutting: Quickly penetrates, dissolves, and removes tough substances like grease, tar, asphalt, and carbon.
– Wide Versatility: Works on a variety of dirt and grease, ideal for automotive, machinery, and equipment.
– Safe for Painted Surfaces: Washes off easily and does not attack painted surfaces, also good for paint prep.
– Made in the USA: High-quality, reliable product from a trusted American brand.

Pros:
– Extremely effective on heavy industrial contaminants.
– Safe on painted surfaces, useful for engine bays and equipment.
– Large volume for big projects.
Cons: Requires careful handling due to its industrial strength.
Best for: Heavy equipment, automotive engines, machinery, and industrial part cleaning.
Expert Opinion: Kroil Floway in gallon form is an industrial workhorse, delivering exceptional cleaning power while maintaining surface integrity, establishing it as a highly reliable best solvent for tar for extensive professional use.

9. KROIL Kano Floway Industrial Cleaner Degreaser (Liquid-13oz Aerosol)

This is the same fantastic Kroil Kano Floway, but in a convenient 13oz aerosol can. I find this format incredibly handy for targeted cleaning on automotive parts, smaller tools, or specific grease spots that need concentrated attention. It retains all the powerful grease-cutting properties of its larger liquid counterpart, effectively removing tar, asphalt, and carbon, and is still safe for painted surfaces.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Grease Cutting Solvent: Quickly penetrates, dissolves, and removes tough substances like grease, tar, asphalt, and carbon.
– Versatile Application: Ideal for automotive engines, motors, brakes, transmissions, and various industrial equipment.
– Safe for Painted Surfaces: Does not contain chlorinated solvents and is safe for most painted finishes.
– Convenient Aerosol: Provides targeted application for precise cleaning tasks.

Pros:
– Excellent cleaning power in an easy-to-use aerosol.
– Safe for painted surfaces.
– Ideal for precision cleaning and hard-to-reach areas.
Cons: Smaller quantity means it’s not ideal for large-scale cleaning.
Best for: Spot cleaning automotive parts, small tools, and specific grease/tar spots.
Expert Opinion: The aerosol version of Kroil Floway provides the same formidable cleaning prowess in a user-friendly format, proving that the best solvent for tar can be both powerful and conveniently applicable for detailed tasks.

10. Zep Big Orange Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser Aerosol

Similar to the Zep Big Orange-E, this aerosol version delivers serious degreasing power with a pleasant citrus scent. I often grab this for dissolving industrial-strength glues, protective coatings, and, of course, stubborn tar residues on unpainted concrete or metal surfaces. It’s definitely designed for heavy-duty industrial applications, offering robust performance without the harsh petroleum odors.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Degreasing Action: Effectively removes grease, oil, and industrial soils.
– Adhesive & Tar Remover: Dissolves industrial-strength glues, protective coatings, and stubborn residues.
– Heavy-Duty Performance: Designed for industrial applications like auto shops and manufacturing.
– Pleasant Citrus Scent: Leaves a fresh, natural citrus fragrance.

Pros:
– Strong industrial cleaning power.
– Effective on adhesives and heavy tar.
– Pleasant citrus scent.
Cons: Not suitable for all surfaces, especially painted automotive finishes.
Best for: Industrial degreasing, removing heavy tar/adhesives from unpainted concrete and metal.
Expert Opinion: Zep Big Orange aerosol encapsulates intense industrial-grade cleaning within a convenient spray, making it a highly effective and pleasantly scented best solvent for tar for tough maintenance challenges on resilient surfaces.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best solvent for tar, consider your surface: for delicate automotive paint with coatings, Gtechniq W7 and Koch-Chemie Teerwäsche A are outstanding, offering targeted and safe removal. For those needing a versatile solution for both car and home, Imperial Cleaner and 3M Adhesive Remover excel, tackling a broader range of stains safely. For heavy-duty industrial equipment and tools, Trick Shot stands out with its biodegradable formula, while both Kroil Floway options (liquid and aerosol) and Zep Big Orange (aerosol) provide formidable strength for asphalt, carbon, and other robust soils. If electrical safety is paramount, Safe Clean is the specialized, non-flammable choice. Think about the volume you need – a single aerosol for spot treatment versus a gallon for large projects.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing and hands-on experience, finding the best solvent for tar really boils down to your specific needs. If I’m working on my car’s precious paintwork and want something that’s quick, effective, and won’t damage coatings, Gtechniq W7 Tar and Glue Remover is my absolute go-to. For heavy-duty industrial applications where asphalt and tar cling to equipment, Trick Shot Asphalt Solvent and Cleaner truly impresses with its powerful yet biodegradable approach. However, for a genuinely versatile, all-around solution that handles tar, adhesives, and a host of other gunk on multiple surfaces from car to home, 3M Adhesive Remover offers an excellent balance of power, safety, and a low-odor experience, making it a strong contender for the most universally recommended option.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best solvent for tar on car paint?
A1: For car paint, especially with protective coatings, products like Gtechniq W7 Tar and Glue Remover and KOCHCHEMIE Koch-Chemie -Teerwäsche A are highly recommended as they are specifically formulated to dissolve tar without damaging the paint or clear coat. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Q2: Are tar removers safe for all automotive surfaces?
A2: No, not all tar removers are safe for every surface. Some, like Gtechniq W7, are excellent for paintwork but not suitable for PPF (Paint Protection Film) or wrapped vehicles. Industrial-strength degreasers might be too aggressive for delicate automotive paint. Always check the product label for specific surface compatibility.

Q3: Can I use household products as a best solvent for tar?
A3: While some common household items like WD-40 or kerosene can dissolve tar, they are generally not recommended for car paint as they can damage clear coats, strip waxes, or leave greasy residues. Specialized tar removers are safer and more effective.

Q4: How do I apply a tar solvent for best results?
A4: Typically, you’ll spray the tar solvent directly onto the affected area, let it dwell for a few minutes (as per product instructions), allowing it to dissolve the tar. Then, gently wipe away with a clean microfiber cloth or rinse off with water, depending on the product. Avoid letting it dry on the surface.

Q5: What’s the difference between a tar remover and an adhesive remover?
A5: While many products are effective at removing both, dedicated tar removers are often formulated to break down bitumen and road grime, whereas adhesive removers target glues and sticker residues. Some, like 3M Adhesive Remover, are designed to handle both effectively.

Q6: Is there a biodegradable option for the best solvent for tar?
A6: Yes, absolutely! Trick Shot Asphalt Solvent and Cleaner is an excellent example of a biodegradable, food-grade formula that effectively removes tar and asphalt while being environmentally friendly and safer to use.

Q7: Can I use tar remover on my clothes or upholstery?
A7: Some multi-use solvents like Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover are safe for fabrics and upholstery. However, always check the product’s instructions and test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

Q8: What should I do if a tar remover leaves a residue?
A8: If a tar remover leaves a greasy or sticky residue, try washing the area with an all-purpose cleaner or a mild car shampoo. Some high-quality removers, like 3M Adhesive Remover, are specifically formulated to leave no residue or scent.