Well looks like I get to spend the weekend hitting the MINI with a clay bar. Its covered from front to back with tree sap. Havent had a problem until now with where I park, but may have to consider a new spot. The one I`m using is nice because although I get a lot of bird crap, theres zero chance of door dings.

 

Do I hear a chainsaw in the background......

 

One technique I've found to work really well when I'm washing my car and come across a difficult spot is to directly apply a dab of carwash concentrate (i.e., straight from the bottle) to the area and let it sit for a minute while I do another panel. Typically, it helps in breaking down the remnants of whatever the first pass of washing didn't lift, and then I can more easily wipe away the crud. I'm not advocating against claybars - there's no denying the wonders they work - simply putting this out there for anyone who might not have a claybar or is hesitant to try it out on their beloved MINI for the first time.

Also, I don't want anyone to think I'm pawning this idea off as my own. It came from a detailer's guide included with some products I purchased from Griot's Garage.

 

CAR COVER!

 

tree sap SUCK!! i had tree sap. used a clay bar. but it didnt take off 100% of it.
but then again. it was cold out and clay bar didnt work too well.
ill hit at it again some other time.

but also..there's this one solution that's in a aersol can spray type container and it's called gum remover or something. but it takes off tree sap REAL good. it's the one that smells really good..(like gasoline type smell) hahaha
(sorry..im very vague..cause i dont know wat it was called..i just remember using it on my old car..)

 

You can use Denatured Alcohol to remove the sap. It works quite well, Ive used it for years for the same problem.

 

May sound like a dumb question, but, is it okay to put a car cover over a hot car -- i.e. one that has just been driven home from work?

 

a little rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth will do the trick, find a new parking place, that's going to help a bit too

 

Yes, I do it all the time.