This is a pretty well documented topic, but just wanted to add my voice to the multitude, and share with the only people I know who might actually give a damn.
There's a couple of different methods out there, one involving fishing line, and the other a rag-wrapped screwdriver. After breaking 3 or 4 lengths of fishing line, I went for the screwdriver to start it, then just pulled it off slowly with my hands.
Goo Gone seemed to make no difference until I actually had the strips off. Then I soaked the foam tape that was left on the car for about 30 minutes.
Best thing for taking off the stickum seemed to be the pad of my right thumb, with extra pressure applied by my left hand. Got a blister about halfway through the second side of the car, and had to switch thumbs. Badge of honor.
Goo Gone only went so far. Once the stickum was off, went back to get the thin layer of adhesive that outlined the original tape strip. Seemed to not matter how long I soaked or how I rubbed. Finally washed the sides of the car again, and used "Scratch Out" on an orbital buffer. That got most of it, but there is still a line there. Almost invisible. I'm not sure, but it seems like a flaw in the paint, as if the clearcoat had not fully cured when the dings were installed. Also found one tiny flaw that had been hidden by the strip. No rust, though.
Finished off with Polyglycoat, hand-applied. Didn't notice any color variation in my T-red paint.
Total job took about 2.5 hours.
Overall, I'm happy with it. The flaws are very difficult to see. You'd have to pretty much know they are there and then get down on the ground with just the right light angle to see them. Besides, I was also able to find a flaw before it became rust, which is a good save in my book. (Those little paint flaws are part of what makes this great car so affordable).
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"My other car is a minivan..."
'96 Contour SE
