How do I remove paint transfer from another car, a wall or a parking pillar?

Paint transfer happens when paint or rubber from another surface rubs onto your car and sits on top of the clear coat, often looking like a scratch in a different color. Start with the least aggressive method: wash the area, then try a dedicated paint-transfer or tar and adhesive remover on a microfiber towel, a fine clay bar, or a light polish by hand or machine. Once the transferred paint is gone, check what is underneath under good light. If only light scratches remain, polishing can usually remove them; if your own paint is broken through to primer or metal, it needs touch-up paint or repainting by a body shop.