Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Mold is an unwelcome guest on any car exterior. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also damage the underlying paint and cause corrosion over time. It’s easy to spot mold growth – usually in dark patches with a fuzzy texture on your vehicle’s body panels or trim pieces. Here’s how to effectively clean mold off your car exterior:
Cleaning Mold Off A Car Exterior
You Will Need
- Gloves
- Mask
- Olive Oil
- Car Shampoo
- Soft-Microfiber Towel Or Brush
- Wood Buffing Pad
- Hose
- Bucket Of Warm, Soapy Water
- Rinse Bucket Of Clean Water
- Vacuum Cleaner
- Car Wax
Instructions
Thoroughly Inspect The Car: Before beginning the cleaning process, it is important to identify all areas of mold on the car and plan how you will clean them. Wear protective gloves, as mold can be hazardous if inhaled or touched directly.
Spray Olive Oil: Spray a generous amount of olive oil on the affected areas, as this will help loosen and break down the mold. Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing.
Scrub: Using a wool pad or soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the area to remove any loose mold particles. Be sure to move the brush in a circular motion and avoid applying too much pressure that could scratch or damage your car’s paint. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck up the mold for hard-to-reach areas, like inside door frames.
Rinse The Car: Using a hose, rinse the car to remove any remaining mold particles.
Wash The Car Surface: Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water and use a sponge or soft microfiber cloth to wash the car. This will not only remove any remaining mold but will also help restore the car’s paint.
Clean All The Carves And Corners: The crevices and corners of your car may be prone to mold growth. Make sure to clean all these areas with a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner.
Rinse It Again: Use the hose to rinse the soap using clean water from the car again.
Dry The Car: Use a microfiber towel or chamois cloth and dry off the car’s surfaces to avoid water spots.
Apply Car Wax: Apply a layer of car wax to protect the paint from dirt, dust, and future mold growth.
Use Paint Correction:<span data-preserver-spaces=”true”> If the mold has etched into the car paint, it can be difficult to remove. Professional detailing services may be needed to apply a paint correction product in this case.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a fungus that can grow on organic materials like wood, fabric, and rubber. Mold needs moisture to thrive, so it’s no surprise that it likes to form on car exteriors in warm and humid climates.
Reasons Why Mold Grows On Car Paint?
Poor Ventilation: When items are stored inside the car and never moved out, the humidity will build up when windows are closed.
Dirty Car Exterior: Dirt particles provide a good environment for mold to grow.
Leaking Fluid Or Water Accumulating On The Paint: Rust or dirt can trap water and allow mold to form.
Mold grows when there is an abundance of moisture, such as dew or rainwater. It can also feed off organic materials on the car’s surface, like dirt and pollen. The combination of these factors creates an environment ideal for mold growth.
Why It’s Crucial To Remove Mold From Your Car Paint?
Prevention Of Further Damage: Mold can cause permanent discoloration and paint damage if left untreated. The spores from mold can spread to other parts of your vehicle, such as the interior, creating a musty smell or even health problems for those with allergies or asthma.
Avoid Rust Build-Up: If mold is not removed, it can etch into the car’s metal, leading to rust and corrosion.
Clean Air Quality: Mold spores may contaminate the car’s air quality if not removed.
Spotting Mold On Your Car: Mold can often be spotted as dark spots, streaks, or patches on the car’s exterior. It is important to look for areas of discoloration, especially in places that are difficult to clean, such as underneath the car or around door frames.
Ways To Remove Mold From Car Exterior
Mildew Stain Remover: To quickly remove mold from the car’s exterior, you can use a mildew stain remover. This is an effective and easy way to remove any visible signs of mold.
Vinegar: White vinegar is also a great way to kill mold on your car’s exterior. Mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle onto the affected areas. Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing and rinsing the car with clean water.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is another effective way to eliminate mold on your vehicle. Mix baking soda and water in a bowl and apply to the affected areas using a sponge or brush. Scrub gently and rinse off with clean water.
Professional Detailing: If the mold is difficult to remove or you don’t feel comfortable attempting it yourself, it’s best to take your car to a professional auto detailer for a thorough cleaning and waxing. This will help ensure that all the mold and mildew are removed properly and that your car’s paint is restored.
Prevention For Removing Mold In Your Car
Park In A Dry And Well-Ventilated Area: This will help reduce the risk of mold forming due to moisture.
Clean Regularly: Regularly washing your car can keep dirt, dust, pollen, and other debris from accumulating, which could provide food for mold spores.
Air Out The Interior: Leaving the windows open while parked or driving can help air out your car’s interior and reduce moisture buildup.
Use A Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier is an effective way to absorb moisture in the car, which can reduce mold growth.
Inspect Regularly: Periodically inspect your car for any signs of mold growth, such as a musty smell or discolored surfaces.
Consider Professional Detailing: Professional auto detailers can help keep your car in top shape and quickly address any signs of mold growth.
FAQs
Is It Necessary To Wash My Car Before Trying To Remove Mold?
Yes, it is important to wash your car before trying to remove any mold. Washing will help to ensure that all dirt and debris are removed for the cleaning solution to work effectively.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove Mold From A Car?
The cost of removing mold from a car can vary depending on the severity of the problem. For minor cases, you can tackle it yourself with items from your home. However, for more serious cases, you may need to hire a professional to take care of it. Professional services generally range between $1000 and $1200, depending on the job site.
Could Waxing My Car Prevent Mold?
Applying a good wax job to your vehicle can help prevent mold from forming. Waxing provides a protective barrier against moisture, which can help reduce the chances of mold growth. When applying wax, ensure it is applied evenly and generously; otherwise, it will need to do its job properly. Regular maintenance, such as washing and polishing your vehicle, can also help reduce the chance of mold growth.
What Is Paint Correction?
Paint correction is a process to restore the original color and shine of your car’s paintwork. This can be done by combining clay bar, polish, and wax techniques to remove scratches, swirl marks, and blemishes from the surface. Paint correction helps prevent further damage, such as oxidation or fading due to sun exposure. The paint correction results can last up to two years, so it’s important to keep your car’s paintwork in good condition with regular maintenance and wax jobs.
How Long Does It Take For Mold To Ruin The Exterior Of A Car?
Mold can begin to damage the exterior of a car fairly quickly, although the exact time frame will vary depending on how much moisture it’s exposed to and how long it is left untreated. In most cases, mold growth can occur within 24 hours under ideal conditions.
How To Clean Mold Off Of Car Window Seals?
Cleaning mold off car window seals is more challenging than other exterior surfaces, requiring extra care to ensure no damage occurs. Start by using an all-purpose cleaner, a mild detergent, and warm water to loosen the mold from the seal. Then use an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to scrub away the mold gently. Be sure to rinse the area with clean water when finished. If the mold persists, you may need to use a specialized cleaner or take your car to a professional for a more thorough cleaning.
Is WD-40 Effective To Remove Black Mold?
WD-40 can be an effective tool for removing black mold from car exteriors. However, it is important to note that WD-40 should never be used on painted surfaces, as this may cause damage to the paintwork.
Conclusion
Mold is a common problem for car owners. It is important to use the right materials and techniques to clean mold off a car’s exterior. With the right supplies and proper cleaning techniques, you can easily remove mold from the exterior of your car.
For more information on how to clean mold off a car’s exterior, contact an experienced car wash professional or auto body shop for advice. They can provide you with additional tips and guidance on how to keep your vehicle looking its best. You can ensure your car is free of mold with the right knowledge and materials.
