emory2001

I just bought a gently pre-owned 2010 RX 350. It has clear decals or stickers behind the front door handles, but they are kind of dirty and I don't like how they look. Are these important for the smart access system, or just for keeping the car exterior clean with lots of handling? Can I take them off?

emory2001

To clarify, the decals are not on the backside of the door handle, where the smart access sensor is. They are on the car door, in the indentation behind the door handle.

kitlz

The previous owner must have added protective film to that area to avoid scratches. There's no harm in removing it.

emory2001

Thanks, I went ahead and took them off. It does seem like a protective decal. I just wanted to make sure no one knew of something I had missed.

Sevn86

U can always add new ones to protect that area. It's too late for my RX but u can reapply some if u want.

Dolphin

Where to buy these? Seems like a great idea....

BertL

As many online stores as I've looked thorough over the years, I can't remember a source -- hopefully someone else will. Worst case, you could always buy some bulk XPEL or similar 3M protectant shield film, create your own template for the oval areas, cut them out and apply.

joniwick

how did you remove them? i have and there is sticky residue

emory2001

Mine left residue too.I'm going to just get it detailed and have them remove it.

BertL

Joniwick/Emory2001 -- If you're going to detail your ride anyway, including new sealant or wax, have you tried something like IPA, "Goo Gone", or the spray "3M Adhesive Remover" on the problem area? The latter has never failed me in a tough situation getting rid of some little bit of sticky goo. Apply a little to an applicator, rag or microfiber towel -- a little rubbing, and voila! Just remember some of that is strong stuff, so re-protect (at least that area of) your paint/clearcoat afterwards.

...some good additional ideas in the Auto Detailing Forum here on CL. Good luck.

joniwick

How do I re protect?

BertL

However you normally do, with whatever products you use on your finish -- be that wax, a sealant, coating or some hybrid of those. Not trying to be flippant, but I don't know what your products of choice may be.

Using any of the products I suggested to get rid of the sticky stuff will effectively strip off carnauba wax and sealants I've dealt with (maybe not a coating) back to your clearcoat. Once you have the sticky stuff gone, I'd just go at the "re-protection" as if you have fresh paint and go from there however you do your thing with whatever products that may be.

tromly

Goo Gone has always worked for me.

dapimpee

Yes Good Gone has helped me to debagged my RX in less then 20 mins.