Warning to Rochester Drivers: The ‘Cheese Challenge’ Is Back and Your Car Is The Target

Imagine walking out to your car, coffee in hand, ready to head to work, only to find a slice or slices of processed American cheese stuck to your car. You would probably be confused and maybe a little irritated. Maybe a lot irritated.

I've seen several posts from Rochester residents over the last week saying they've had to deal with this. Cheesing cars is a TikTok trend that's been around for a few years and is now apparently resurfacing in Rochester.

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What is The TikTok Cheese Challenge?

This viral trend started several years ago with people throwing Kraft singles at just about anything. Babies, motorcyclists, even moving cars were the initial targets. Now, it's evolved into a nighttime prank targeting cars. It's basically the modern-day version of egging a house.

Act Fast If Your Car Gets Cheesed

I've read several stories from around the country and the best advice is to act fast if you get cheesed. Once that cheese dries out, it hardens into a shell that is brutal to get off.

The oils and acids in processed cheese could also  eat right into your vehicle's paint, especially if it bakes in the hot sun for a long time.

Wash It Right Away: Grab warm, soapy water and get to work immediately. Gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge to prevent paint erosion.

Don't Use a Scraper: Whatever you do, do not use abrasive scrubbers or sharp blades on your paint or glass. You will scratch it.

If there’s still a greasy ring left behind, use a dedicated bug and tar remover to safely lift those baked-on fats off the clear coat.