Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Yes, but you need to re-wash it. Contrary to popular belief, rain does not clean your car. While the water may wash away some of the dirt and grime on the surface of your vehicle, it doesn’t do a thorough job of cleaning all the nooks and crannies. The water can cause other problems, like rusting and corrosion.
Does Rain Clean Your Car?
The answer is a bit complicated. On the one hand, rain can wash away some of the dirt and grime that has accumulated on your car. However, it will only do a thorough job of cleaning some of the nooks and crannies. In addition, the water can cause other problems like rusting and corrosion. Your car needs more than just rain to stay clean. The extra moisture from rain can damage your vehicle.
The Positive Side Of A Rain Wash
You Don’t Need To Pre-Rinse Your Vehicle: If you’re washing your car in the rain, you don’t need to pre-rinse it with a hose. The rain will do the job for you.
It’s Less Likely To Scratch Your Paint: Washing your car in the rain shower is less likely to cause scratches than washing it with a hose or pressure washer.
The Rain Will Rinse Away Any Soap Residue: The rain will rinse away any soap residue, so you don’t need to worry about that.
Your Car Will Smell Fresh: Washing your car in the rain can help to remove any musty odors.
Drawbacks Of Cleaning A Car In The Rain
Pressure Is Too Low To Clean: Rainwater pressure is not as high as a garden hose or pressure washer, so it will not be as effective in removing all the dirt and grime.
Risk Of Rust And Corrosion: Rainwater contains minerals and other materials that can cause rusting and corrosion.
Re-Washing Is Necessary: Even if you wash your car in the rain, you’ll still need to re-wash it with soapy water to remove all the dirt, grime, and other materials.
Causes Water Spots: Rainwater can also cause water spots, which are difficult to remove and damage your paint job.
Rainwater Is Dirty: Rainwater is often contaminated and can leave your car more polluted than before. It can pick up pollutants from the atmosphere and deposit them in your vehicle.
Acid Rain: Acid rain is a type of rain that contains high levels of sulfuric acid. This can damage your car’s paint and finish.
Unable To Dry Your Car Properly: It cannot be easy to dry your car properly if you wash it in the rain. This can lead to water spots and other problems.
Tips To Consider
Protect Your Car From The Rain: The best way to protect it is to park it in a garage or under an awning. If you can’t do that, try to park it in a spot where the rain won’t hit it directly.
Apply A Wax, Sealant, Or Coating: Applying these to your car’s paint can help to protect it from the elements.
Rinse The Car After It Rains: Rinsing your car off can help remove any dirt, grime, or other materials that the rain may have deposited on your car.
Wash The Car Properly: Even if you wash it in the rain, you’ll still need to re-wash it with soapy water to remove all the dirt, grime, and other materials.
FAQs
How Does Rain Clean Your Car?
The rainwater will wash away any dirt, dust, or grime that has built up on your car. But it is unable to remove grease or tar. You must use a cleaner designed for this purpose to remove these substances.
Is It Better To Wash Your Car Before, During, Or After The Rain?
It is not recommended that you wash your car before or during rain, as the water can cause streaks or stains on the surface of your vehicle. You must wash your car after rain, and dry it immediately to avoid any water spots.
Why Washing A Car In Hot Is Not Advisable?
Washing your car in sweltering weather or direct sunlight can cause the water to evaporate too quickly, leaving behind spots and streaks or damaging your car’s clear coat. It can also cause the soap to dry on your car’s surface, which can be challenging to remove. Wash your vehicle in the shade or during the cooler hours of the day.
Does Rain Wash Away Car Wax?
The rain will not wash away car wax, but it can cause the wax to become dull and streaky.
Will Leave Your Car In The Rain Damage It?
Leaving your car in the rain will not damage it, but it can cause the paint to fade and the interior to become musty.
Conclusion
In general, rain does a good job of cleaning your car. However, if your vehicle is filthy, give it a hose down afterward. Try not to leave your car in the rain as it may contain chemicals that can damage your paint job. Rainwater is filled with dirt, pollen, and other debris that can scratch and swirl your car’s paint. The acidity in rainwater can etch into your car’s clear coat and cause long-term damage. So, if you want to keep your vehicle looking its best, it’s best to give it a good wash after a rainstorm.
