Can You Use Vinegar To Clean Car Exterior?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

You can use diluted vinegar to clean your car exterior! It’s a great natural alternative to harsh chemicals—mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle to wipe down your car’s surface. You’ll be amazed at how well it works!

Is Vinegar Safe On Car Paint?

Yes, vinegar is safe to use on car paint. However, it’s important to make sure you dilute it with water. This will help prevent any damage to your paint job.

Cleaning The Exterior Of Your Car

You Will Need

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 3 cups of water
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber Cloths
• Newspapers

Instructions

1. Mix the vinegar and water in a bowl.
2. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
3. Before cleaning your car’s exterior, wet it down.
4. Spray the solution onto your car’s surface and wipe it down with a clean microfiber cloth.
5. Thoroughly clean the outside.
6. Repeat this process until your car is clean.
7. Dry your car with a clean towel, or let it air dry.
8. Enjoy your clean car

Uses For Vinegar On Your Car

• Removes bumper stickers
• Washes the exterior
• It gets rid of any smells in the car
• Clean and defog windshields
• Degrease engines
• Clean out clogged headlights
• Remove water stains
• Remove chewing gum
• Clean upholstery 
• Shine leather interiors
• Detailing the dashboard
• Clean windows
• Clean wheels and rims
• De-icing in the wintertime

Pros Of Using Vinegar To Clean Car Exterior

• Inexpensive
• Natural
• Safe for car paint if diluted
• Multi-purpose

Cons Of Using Vinegar To Clean Car Exterior

• It may require more effort than using commercial cleaners
• A strong smell that can linger
• It can be challenging to remove all traces of vinegar smell
• It may not be as effective as commercial cleaners

Vinegar Alternatives For Cleaning Your Car

• Lemon juice
• Baking soda
• Rubbing alcohol
• WD-40
• Car Wash Soap

FAQs

Is It Harmful To Use Vinegar On Car Paint?

No, vinegar is not harmful to car paint. It’s a great natural alternative to harsh chemicals. However, it’s important to make sure you dilute it with water. This will help prevent any damage to your paint job.

How Do I Remove The Vinegar Smell From My Car?

Mix lemon juice and water in a spray bottle to wipe down your car’s surface. The lemon juice will help neutralize the vinegar smell.

What Are The Effects Of Washing A Car With Water Only?

If you wash your car with water only, it will not remove all the dirt and grime. This can cause your car’s paint to become dull and fade over time.

What Types Of Surfaces Can You Clean With Vinegar?

• Countertops
• Floors
• Windows
• Glass
• Plastic
• Tiles
• Appliances
• Carpets
• Leather

How Much Is White Vinegar?

A gallon of white vinegar generally costs around $5 to $9.

Does Vinegar Remove Bugs And Grime From Car Windshields?

Vinegar is a great way to remove bugs and grime from your car windshield. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to wipe down the windshield.

Conclusion

Vinegar is a mild acid, which makes it effective for cleaning. However, because it is an acid, it can also damage surfaces if not used properly. Proper cleanliness is key after using this product; if you don’t wash the area well enough, it could cause adverse effects.