As spring and summer approach, many of us sneeze and cough as pollen fills the air. But did you know that pollen can also harm your car? Here's what you need to know to protect your car from the effects of pollen.
Pollen is a fine powdery substance produced by trees, flowers, grasses, and weeds during the spring and summer months. It is carried by the wind and can land on your car, causing a yellowish-greenish film to develop on the exterior. While this film is an unpleasant sight to see, it can also do a number on your car's paint job.
If left on your car for an extended period, pollen can corrode the clear coat that protects your vehicle's paint, leading to discoloration, pitting, and even rust. The pollen can be especially problematic if your car is already suffering from other paint damage or if you live in an area with high humidity, as moisture can exacerbate the problem.
The best way to prevent pollen damage is to keep your car clean. Regular washing with soap and water is the most effective way to remove pollen from your vehicle's surface. It's also a good idea to wax your car regularly to help protect the paint from damage caused by pollen.
In addition to damaging your car's exterior, pollen can also affect your air filters. Pollen and other airborne contaminants can clog your car's air filters, reducing airflow into your vehicle's cabin and making it more challenging to regulate the temperature inside. As a result, it forces the air conditioning system to work harder, leading to increased wear and tear and reduced efficiency.
To prevent pollen from damaging your car's air filters, be sure to replace them regularly. Your car's owner's manual should have recommendations for how often to change the filters. Additionally, consider investing in a cabin air filter if your car doesn't already have one. These filters can help to reduce the amount of pollen and other contaminants that enter the cabin, keeping the air inside cleaner and healthier.
By taking these simple steps, you can keep your vehicle looking and running new even during the height of pollen season. Let the professional techs at Snellville Auto Center help you out with some good ol' springtime vehicle maintenance.