Should the barcode sticker on the side of a new car be removed?
3 Answers
Generally speaking, whether you remove the white barcode sticker on the side of a new car or not has no significant impact on the vehicle. It mainly depends on personal preference. If you find it aesthetically unpleasing, you can remove it. Additional information: 1. Meaning of the white barcode: The white sticker on the side of the car is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which serves as the car's unique identifier, similar to a person's ID card. It primarily displays the vehicle's configuration information, such as the model, engine code, manufacturer, assembly location, etc. By scanning it with a professional machine, relevant configuration details can be viewed. 2. Precautions: If you decide to remove the barcode, it's best to do so after completing the vehicle registration. During the registration process, certain vehicle information may be required, and the barcode can be used to quickly retrieve this information, making the registration process more convenient and efficient without wasting too much time.
When I first bought my car, I also hesitated about that barcode sticker on the side. In the end, I removed it. It's just a temporary shipping label, like a courier slip, used to track the vehicle's location during transport. After taking delivery, I noticed under sunlight that it really disrupted the car's clean aesthetics—like an unnecessary tag. I gently sprayed it with warm soapy water before peeling it off, leaving no sticky residue. If left on too long, exposure to wind and rain could harden the adhesive, making it gummy. Accidentally scratching the paint during a car wash would be a real shame. Since the paint is brand-new, I recommend removing it early for peace of mind and to avoid giving used-car assessors the impression of poor maintenance. Don't worry—peeling it off won't affect warranty or functionality; dealers have all that info on record. A new car should hit the road clean and fresh—that's the way to enjoy it.
The barcode sticker on the side of the new car is indeed temporary, and I recommend removing it as soon as possible. It likely originates from transportation or warehouse processes and is meant for short-term use. Once the car is delivered, environmental changes can cause the adhesive to degrade over time, especially under summer heat when it may melt and bond with the paint, making removal a real headache. I've used specialized adhesive removers for such stickers with decent results, but caution is needed to avoid damaging the base coat. Keeping the car body clean is crucial for paint protection—leaving it on can trap dust and grime, increasing corrosion risks. If the label wrinkles or reflects light, it might even distract drivers. Take advantage of the car's new condition to remove it promptly, and regular waxing will further enhance rust and scratch resistance. Maintaining healthy paintwork naturally extends the vehicle's lifespan.
