ldamelio

So I used some Stikk orange painter's tape on my headlights for a DE weekend and I have some residue. I always used Scotch blue exterior tape in the past and it comes off clean. My friend and mechanic who uses the orange Stikk tape on his headlights gave it to me so I assumed (mistake) it would come off clean. Maybe it's because it was on for three days.

In any event, what's the best SAFE agent for removal on the polycarbonate lens (2018 Cayman)? I'm paranoid as I had a headlight lens ruined (crazed/superficial cracks) last year by accidental run over of Mothers Racing Rubber Remover. I was thinking of starting with a little dilute Dawn on microfiber.

TIA for your thoughts.

Spyder_2011

A blend of distilled water and isopropyl should remove it without damaging the lens. The headlights should have a clear coat on it if original to the car.

BoxKing

Gyeon Tar - this stuff is magical, and you will love how it also dissolves all the rubber on your car after a DE event.

ldamelio

Hey Mike - thanks for the tip. The Gyeon product (pinkish clear bottle) is what I indeed use on the car after track days - recommended by my detailer after my fiasco with the Mother's RR last year - had to replace the lens on one headlight. Just to double check, you use it on the lights without problems?

I did the isopropyl/distilled H2O fix as recommended above - it worked but took a lot of time and elbow grease.

I'm back to the Scotch exterior painters tape for headlight protection on the track.

weberlukas74

You can also try 3M General Purpose Adhesive Remover or Goo Gone Automotive. They're made to safely remove residue from various surfaces without causing damage.

Spyder_2011

Isopropyl definitely requires some elbow grease but on the plus side it’s definitely safe to use and won’t result in clouded or cracked lenses down the road.