Removing dried flies and insects from the front grille, hood, and windshield requires the correct chemical procedure. Insect bodies contain aggressive acids and proteins that the sun literally "bakes" into the paint. If you start scrubbing them mechanically, you will irreversibly scratch the paint.
The most effective way to remove them at a self-service car wash using a combination of water pressure and chemicals is as follows:
Preparation (Before inserting coins)
- Let the body cool down: Never apply insect remover chemicals on a hot hood immediately after driving. The product would evaporate immediately, dry up, and could create permanent stains.
- Apply remover on a dry car: If the car wash has a separate sprayer with a "Flies and Insects" program (or "Discs and Insects"), spray it from about 20 cm distance onto the dirty spots (bumper, grille, mirrors, windshield) before rinsing with water. Dry insects absorb the chemical much better than those already washed off with water.
Procedure in the washing bay
Step 1: Chemical action (2 to 3 minutes)
- After spraying, let the cleaner act. The chemical starts breaking down proteins and softening the dried crust. The product must not dry on the paint.
Step 2: Active foam (Optional)
- If the flies are extremely dried on, cover the front part with the Active Foam program. The foam retains moisture and extends the time the chemical acts on the insects.
Step 3: Pressure rinse (Close but at an angle)
- Switch to the Main Wash (hot water with shampoo) or Rinse program.
- Bring the pressure gun (vaporizer) closer to the paint than usual (about 20–25 cm), but do not spray water straight on. Spray at a sharp angle so the water jet literally "lifts" and trims the flies off the paint instead of pushing them into it. Proceed systematically from both sides.
Step 4: Cleaning with microfiber (No pressure)
- If the most stubborn pieces remain on the paint, never use the foam brush from the bay! Take a damp microfiber cloth and gently wipe the spots without pressing. The softened insects will come off immediately.
Step 5: Final rinse and protection
- Rinse the car with demineralized water and then definitely use the Wax program. Waxing smooths the paint, so on the next drive, flies will not stick as firmly to the smooth surface and will come off much easier during the next wash.