With the expected increase in the cost of purchasing new cars and the potential rise in the value of used cars, protecting your car’s exterior appearance is more important than ever. One common threat to your vehicle’s beauty and efficiency may be sitting right outside your window: pollen.
In Alabama and many other parts of the country, spring brings a yellow, powdery coating to cars parked outdoors. While it might seem like a harmless seasonal annoyance, experts say pollen can actually cause damage to your vehicle’s paint and performance if not properly managed.
According to WBRC 6 News, Clay Ingram with AAA Alabama stated that pollen is more than just an eyesore. It’s abrasive and can scratch the paint under the right conditions, ultimately decreasing the car’s value. Moreover, pollen can infiltrate air filters, clogging them and reducing engine efficiency.
It’s important to keep your car clean, but Ingram advises against going overboard.
“You don’t want to run it through a car wash every single day because, over time, car washes can be somewhat bad for your paint. Be smart about it—every few days or once a week should be sufficient,” Ingram explained.
While professional detailing services are available, AAA states that a do-it-yourself approach can be both cost-effective and productive. Here’s how to wash your car like a pro:
- Gather the Right Tools: To reduce dirt transfer, use two buckets—one for clean water and one for soapy water. For the interior, use pH-balanced, biodegradable car wash soap, microfiber towels, wheel brushes, and a vacuum.
- Pre-Wash Preparation: Start by rinsing the entire car with a hose to remove loose dirt. Use a soft brush to clear away bugs and grime from the grill and hood.
- Safe Washing Techniques: Wash from top to bottom to prevent dirty water from streaking over clean areas. Rinse as you go to avoid soap drying on the surface, and never use dishwashing soap—it can strip away protective coatings.
- Post-Wash Protection: Once the car is dry, apply a layer of wax to protect the paint from scratches and environmental damage. Clean windows thoroughly for better visibility, and vacuum the interior to remove dirt and pollen from seats and carpets.
Taking the time to properly clean and protect your car not only maintains its appearance but also preserves its value. In a time when buying a new car can be costly, keeping your existing vehicle in great shape is a smart investment. Whether you opt for a professional detail or a DIY wash, staying consistent with your car care routine will ensure your ride looks great through every pollen-filled season.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
