You’re cruising down the road, the wind’s in your hair, and you’re blasting your favorite tunes – then suddenly, your rear view mirror comes tumbling down. The culprit? Old, deteriorated adhesive that’s seen better days.
If you’re dealing with this sticky situation, don’t fret. How to remove old rear view mirror adhesive in five different ways is something I’ll walk you through step by step in this comprehensive guide.
Read More: How to Remove Windshield Adhesive?
How to Remove Old Rear View Mirror Adhesive?
Method 1: Using Adhesive Remove
A) Choosing the Right Adhesive Remover
There’s a wide array of adhesive removers in the market, each with strength and chemical makeup.
Some are better suited for stickers, while others are designed for hardened glue.
It is crucial to select one that clearly states its effectiveness on automotive applications, especially on glass surfaces.
B) Applying the Adhesive Remover
Due to the chemicals involved, the area should be well-ventilated when applying the adhesive remover.
Apply the remover generously on the residue, ensuring every part is covered.
Use a small brush or sponge for application to ensure it penetrates all nooks and crannies.
C) Letting it Soak
Allow the adhesive remover to sit on the residue for the recommended duration on the package instructions.
The remover needs time to break down the chemical bonds in the adhesive.
D) Scraping off the Adhesive
Once the adhesive is adequately softened, it’s time to remove it.
A plastic scraper or an old credit card is perfect as it reduces the chance of scratching the glass. Be gentle yet firm, scraping away the loosened adhesive.
Method 2: Using Rubbing Alcohol
A) Preparing your Materials
Firstly, you’ll need a bottle of rubbing alcohol, a soft cloth, and a scraping tool. Ensure that the cloth is soft enough not to scratch your glass.
B) Applying the Rubbing Alcohol
Soak the cloth in rubbing alcohol until it’s saturated but not dripping. Then, place the cloth onto the adhesive. Ensure that the entire area is covered.
C) Scraping Away the Adhesive
Once the adhesive has softened, it’s scraping time. Using the same technique as the adhesive remover, gently scrape away the softened adhesive.
If needed, apply more rubbing alcohol and repeat the process until all the adhesive is removed.
Method 3: Using a Razor Blade
A) Safety Precautions
This method demands attention and caution as you’ll be dealing with a sharp object. Make sure to wear safety gloves and goggles. Also, check the condition of the blade. It shouldn’t be rusty or chipped.
B) Scraping the Adhesive
Remove the adhesive off the glass with the razor blade held at a 45-degree angle.
This angle helps to lift the adhesive without causing scratches on the glass surface.
Method 4: Using Heat
A) Using a Hair Dryer
Apply heat using a hair dryer. It should be held about three inches from the glass and moved around in circular motions.
The heat helps to soften the adhesive, making it easier to scrape off.
B) Scraping Away
Once the heat softens the adhesive, use a scraper to remove it gently. Remember not to apply too much pressure to avoid scratching the glass.
Method 5: Using Soap and Water
A) Mixing Soap and Water
Combine a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. The soap helps to break down the adhesive, while the warm water aids in softening it.
B) Scraping Away the Adhesive
Spray the mixture generously onto the adhesive. Start the scraping process once it has been allowed to soak for a few minutes.
Be patient and gentle, scraping until all the adhesive is gone.
How strong is the rear view mirror adhesive?
First, you’ll need to heat the adhesive with a hair dryer or heat gun. This will help loosen the bond between the adhesive and the mirror.
Next, gently use a putty knife or razor blade to scrape away the old adhesive. Be careful not to damage the surface of the mirror. Finally, use a clean cloth to remove any residual adhesive.
Last Opinion
Navigating the road of how to remove old rear view mirror adhesive can be tricky, but with the right methods and a bit of patience, you can get your mirror back in tip-top shape.
Whether you use adhesive remover, rubbing alcohol, a razor blade, heat, or soap and water, remember – the key is to take it slow and steady.
After all, your safety on the road is worth that extra bit of effort. Happy driving!
