Bug and Road Splatter Removal
Safe removal of insect residue from bumpers, grilles, mirrors, and glass.
Bug splatter is acidic. On a hot bumper it starts etching the clear coat within a day or two, and once the residue dries it bonds hard enough that scrubbing does more damage than the bugs did.
This shows up most on cars that run the 101 or 280 corridors, or come back from Marin, Napa, and the Central Valley in warm months.
How it is removed
The affected areas get a dedicated softening agent and dwell time so the residue releases on its own. Only then is anything wiped, using soft media and light pressure. Stubborn residue gets a second application rather than more force.
Front glass, mirror housings, and the leading edge of the hood usually need the same treatment.
Preventing the etching
A protected surface makes a large difference. Wax, sealant, or a ceramic coating gives the residue less to bond to, so it releases during the next wash instead of etching.
Frequently asked questions
Can etching from old bug residue be fixed?
Light etching often polishes out with paint correction. Deeper marks may be permanent.
Is this a standalone service?
It is usually part of a wash or exterior detail, but heavy front-end contamination can be quoted on its own.