How Pollen Impacts Your Car
The spring season with its blooming flowers and warm air
is always a welcome change from harsh winter weather.
This change in weather also brings a not-so-welcome
guest: pollen. Those who suffer from allergies dread
this season, but it’s time we discuss the true silent
sufferers of this seasonal attack–vehicles.
You might be thinking, “What does pollen do? It can’t be that bad for cars.” Well, your friends at
Take 5 Car Wash beg to differ. Besides making our eyes
itch, Mother Nature’s pesky yellow dust also wreaks
havoc on your vehicle. Here are a few reasons you
shouldn’t drive a car covered in pollen.
What Is Pollen and How Does It Damage My Car?
Pollen is a fine, powdery substance that comes from the
stamen of flowering plants. For pollination purposes,
this yellow debris has microscopic hooks giving it the
ability to attach to virtually everything, including
your vehicle. The result is the risk of damage to your
vehicle if not dealt with properly.
Paint Predators
It can be tempting to let spring showers remove pollen
for us instead of washing our cars, but drivers be
warned: a quick rinse with water activates the acidity
in pollen particles. This acidity eats away at your
vehicle’s paint and can lead to premature fading and
even rust. The best removal method is a thorough wash
using automotive soap and water.
Angry Air Filters
Aside from damaging your car’s paint, pollen problems
also lurk beneath your car’s hood. Cabin and engine air
filters collect copious amounts of pollen during the
spring season and often cause clogged air filters. Clean
air filters are essential for maximizing fuel economy
and maintaining engine health. Regularly cleaning or
replacing these filters will ensure that you and your
passengers breathe clean air and that your vehicle is
performing at its best.
Cabin Concerns
Pollen always seems to find its way into a car’s
interior. This invasion occurs primarily through open
windows and ventilation systems. Be sure that you’re
giving as much attention to your car’s interior as the
exterior. You can prevent pollen from building up on
your car's dashboard, seats, and carpet by regularly
vacuuming your car's cabin.
How To Keep Pollen Off Your Car
The best defense is a good offense. That means
proactively treating your car before pollen season kicks
off. A professional wax application seals the pores in
your car’s surface and makes it difficult for the
elements to stick to your car. This seal prevents
pollen, dander, bugs, and other debris from ruining your
paint and settling in the crevices of your car. The more
layers of wax there are between your vehicle’s surface
and pollen, the better. If pollen has already started to
build up on your vehicle, a professional wash with
automotive soap to safely remove pollen particles will
avoid the risk of damage to your car.
By visiting a Take 5 Car Wash near you this spring, you’ll be protecting your car from lasting
damage and, ultimately, the resale value of your car.
You may even alleviate your allergy symptoms in the
process! At Take 5 Car Wash, our team is here to help
you win the fight on pollen. For the best car wash near you, visit a Take 5 Car Wash today!