MichaelRay

I am considering buying a C5, can the body side moldings be pulled off relatively easy? Will it leave a mark or will the paint be a different color underneath?

Velocity_Vette

It depends.

If the car has been stored inside then it likely isn't going to leave a mark. If it has some mileage on the car it's very possible the underlying paint will appear darker than the surrounding paint. Effectively it's a crap shoot, and at best if there are issues once removed you may inquire with a good detailer or paint correction specialist.

They're attached with body tape so there are no bolts or nuts to remove.

acuevo

I pulled them off of my black 99 shortly after I got it. After nearly 20 years I think most will leave some amount of "shadow". Mine did but its barely noticable (was garage kept by previous owners and very clean). Eventually I'll be doing chadwicks paint correction and I'm hoping that will sort it out.

ArtClassShank

I noticed it on my car, getting the adhesive off was a pain but I got it done. Had a friend go over the area with a polisher and cutting compound, can't tell at all now. Car had around 81K when I removed them, 2004.

SG Lou

Make ABSOLUTELY sure the doors or fenders were not repainted at one time or another. I removed mine not knowing the drivers side door was repainted and it left a noticeable halo around the molding.

knewblewkorvette

If it doesn't work out, they can always be put back on.

MichaelRay

Thanks to all that replied. I really don't like the body side moldings. Knowing that I can possibly take them off helps.

Vetteman Jack

Good luck, hope there is no noticeable difference in the painted areas when you pull them off.