Why bother cleaning your car if it’s going to rain and get dirty again the next day right? Well, let me explain.
Is it Dumb to Wash Car Before Rain?
No, it’s not dumb to wash your car before rain with practical considerations taken into account. Light rain can clean dust, but for stubborn grime like mud or bird droppings, wash before it rains as it may cause more harm than good.
Rainwater does contain pollutants that can damage your car’s paint and clear coat, leading to water spots and other issues.
That is why, if you plan on regular rain washing, use a paint protection product PPF, such as wax, sealant, or ceramic coating.
Would You Wash Knowing It Will Rain Tomorrow?
It depends on a few factors, such as the type of dirt on your car, the intensity of the rain, and the timing of the wash.
1. Type of Dirt
Let’s say your car is covered in light dust or pollen, then a light rain shower might be enough to wash it away.
But if your car has mud, bird droppings, or other stubborn grime, then rain alone won’t be enough to clean it.
In fact, letting the rain wash your car may even leave it dirtier than before, as contaminants in the rain will dry and leave spots on the paint. It’s better to visit a car wash and let the professionals clean it.
2. Intensity of the Rain
This is another factor that many people forget.
A light drizzle may not be enough to clean your car, while a heavy downpour may cause more harm than good.
Heavy rain has a decent chance of knocking loose dirt and pollen off your car, but it’s not going to clean off-road grime, set-in mud, and marks in the paint.
3. Timing of the Wash
Timing is everything even in washing your car.
Washing your car too early might mean that it gets dirty again before the rain even starts.
But, washing it too late might mean that the rain has already started, and the soap and water will be washed away before it has a chance to clean your car.
My personal advice would be to check the weather forecast and if it’s gonna rain again or continue raining, it seems futile to clean your car, as it will immediately get dirty again.
4. Acid Rain
Not all rains are the same and some contain more acid.
A normal acid rain will contain a pH value of 4.0.
If it’s acid rain, it’s best not to wash your car before the rain. Acid rain can damage the paint and clear coat, leading to water spots and other issues.
Benefits of Washing Your Car Before It Rains
Washing your car before it rains can help remove dirt, grime, and other debris that may have accumulated on your vehicle to protect your car’s paint and finish from potential damage caused by the contaminants.
Can washing your car before rain cause any Damage?
No, washing your car before it rains should not cause any damage to your vehicle.
In fact, washing your car regularly can help prevent damage caused by dirt, grime, and other contaminants that can accumulate on your car’s surface over time.
Ideal Weather Conditions for Washing your car to avoid Rain-Related Issues
Yes, it’s best to wash your car when the weather is dry and sunny.
This will help ensure that your car’s surface is completely dry before rain starts to fall.
Impact of Rain on Freshly Washed Car
Rain can impact a freshly washed car in a few different ways.
- Heavy Rain causes water spots to form on your car’s surface, which can be difficult to remove.
- Rain mixed with dirt or other contaminants will cause your car to become dirty again shortly after washing.
- Light rain can help rinse off any remaining soap or debris from your car’s surface.
Does Rain Naturally Clean Your Car if it’s Already Dirty?
No, rain does not naturally clean your car if it’s already dirty.
While rain can help rinse off some dirt and debris, it’s not enough to thoroughly clean your car’s surface.
Book an Appointment With Us
If you wanna avoid all these hassles and have a clean car, book an appointment with us and we will make sure that you drive the shiniest car in the block.
We also have a membership and you can join any of our plans for a discounted price.
