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Meguiar's

Bug & Tar Remover

solvent-basedalkaline-basedready-to-useconsumer-gradehazardousdanger-label

Best Value

$0.40/oz

A consumer-grade alkaline bug and tar remover using butoxyethanol solvent and specialized surfactants for pre-wash contamination removal.

Key Chemistry

pH Level

8.0

Active Mechanism

alkaline dissolution

Surfactants

0 (anionic)

Expert Analysis

Uses butoxyethanol as the primary solvent at pH 8 to dissolve tar while anionic surfactants rehydrate and loosen dried insect remains. The alkaline formulation helps break down protein-based bug residues while the solvent tackles petroleum-based tar contamination.

Key Differentiators

  • Extended-cling foam formula allows longer dwell time for enhanced effectiveness
  • Dual-action chemistry targets both protein-based bugs and petroleum-based tar

Potential Concerns

  • Danger signal word indicates hazardous formulation requiring careful handling
  • Alkaline pH may not be suitable for all paint protection films or sensitive surfaces

Ingredients

11 disclosed
Isobutane1 - 5
CAS: 75-28-5Propellant
WaterN/D
CAS: 7732-18-5Diluent
Petroleum Gases, Liquefied, SweetenedN/D
CAS: 68476-86-8Propellant
Sodium C14-16 Olefin SulfonateN/D
CAS: 68439-57-6Foam Booster
ButoxyethanolN/D
CAS: 111-76-2Degreaser
Corrosion Inhibitor SystemN/D
CAS: Withheld as CBICorrosion Inhibitor
Sodium NitriteN/D
CAS: 7632-00-0Corrosion Inhibitor
ButaneN/D
CAS: 106-97-8Propellant
Sodium MetasilicateN/D
CAS: 6834-92-0Alkaline Cleaning Agent
Yellow 5N/D
CAS: 1934-21-0Colorant
TriethanolamineN/D
CAS: 102-71-6Neutralizer
Direct Blue 86N/D
CAS: 1330-38-7Colorant

Source: manufacturer disclosure

Safety Profile

Signal Word
Danger
Eye Hazard
May cause eye irritation
Skin Hazard
Not classified
Corrosive to Metals
No
Flammable
No

Primary hazards are from flammable propellants and cardiac sensitization potential