Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Washing your car in hot weather is essential to keep it looking its best. The high temperatures can make the washing process challenging, as the water and soap dry quickly, leaving behind unsightly streaks and spots. However, with proper preparation and technique, you can achieve a clean and shiny car even in scorching weather.
Tips For Washing Your Car In The Summer
Use High-Pressure Water
Use a lower pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed. Be sure to keep the nozzle at least 6 inches away from the surface of your car and avoid spraying directly at any seams or edges where water could seep in and cause rusting or damage. When washing around emblems or decals, use a lower pressure setting to avoid peeling them off.
Wash Your Car In The Shade:
Washing your car in a shaded area will prevent water from drying up too quickly and provide a cooler environment for you to work. This means you’ll have enough time to rinse off all the soap residue without worrying about it drying up before you’re done. Moreover, since shaded areas are usually cooler than exposed ones, they offer better conditions for preserving your car’s paint job.
Use Good Quality Washing Products
Using substandard washing products can cause damage to the car’s paint and leave scratches on the surface. It can also lead to a dull appearance of the car over time. Therefore, invest in high-quality car washing soaps and detergents to maintain the appearance of your vehicle.
Choose a pH-neutral formula that will not harm or strip away any protective coatings on your car. Avoid using dishwashing liquid or any household cleaning agents, as they contain harsh chemicals that can strip away wax or sealants from the surface of your car.
Do One Section At A Time
Start with the roof and work down to the car’s sides, front, and back. Doing this will help you avoid leaving soap suds on any part of the car for too long, which can cause streaks and spots.
When starting with each section, rinse it off thoroughly before applying soap. This will help remove any loose dirt or debris that could scratch the paint if rubbed in with soap during washing. Additionally, using a separate bucket for rinsing and another for soaping up can also prevent contamination of clean water.
Use A Microfiber Towel Or Sponge:
When cleaning surfaces like windows and mirrors, it is best to use gentle microfiber cloths or sponges that won’t scratch the glass.
Dry Thoroughly:
After washing your car, dry it thoroughly with a chamois cloth or soft towel before packing it back in direct sunlight. Water spots can form if you don’t wipe down all surfaces completely.
Lubricate Moving Parts With Silicone Spray:
In extreme heat conditions lubricating door hinges, trunk lid hinge, hinges of bonnet hood, etc, with silicon spray ensures smooth opening and closing of these parts without making any squeaky noise
What Are The Risks Of Washing Your Car In The Summer?
Leave Behind Water Spots:
One of the biggest risks is that high temperatures can cause water to evaporate too quickly during the washing process, leaving unsightly water spots on your car’s surface. This is not only unsightly, but it can also be difficult and time-consuming to remove.
Cause Damage To Certain Parts Of Your Vehicle:
Washing your car when the sun is shining directly on it can cause soap residue to dry onto the paintwork and potentially leave scratches or other marks.
Health Issues:
Washing your car in hot weather can also be dangerous for you as well. You could become dehydrated or even suffer heat exhaustion if you’re careless while washing your vehicle outside in extreme heat conditions.
Does Washing A Car In The Sun Damage Paint?
Exposing your vehicle to direct sunlight might damage its paint. The heat from the sun can cause water droplets to evaporate quickly, leaving behind mineral deposits that could harm your car’s finish. Washing a hot car with water might also create thermal shock and cause the paint to crack.
What To Avoid When Washing Your Car In The Summer?
Avoid Washing Your Car In Direct Sunlight:
The sun’s rays can cause water droplets and soap suds to evaporate too quickly, leaving spots and streaks on the paint job. To ensure a thorough clean, wash your car early or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Avoid Using Household Cleaners:
Don’t use dish soap or other household cleaners, as they can strip the wax off your vehicle’s surface. Instead, invest in a good quality car shampoo designed for automotive paint.
Avoid Using Abrasive Materials:
Opt for microfiber towels or soft brushes instead to gently lift away dirt and grime without damaging the surface of your paint job.
Can You Wash Your Car In 30-Degree Weather?
You can wash your car in 30-degree weather but must take precautions to avoid potential damage. Using warm water when washing your car in cold weather is important. This will prevent frozen water from damaging the paint and exterior of the vehicle. Additionally, make sure that you park your car in a well-lit area so that any remaining water on the vehicle can quickly evaporate before it freezes.
Should I Let My Car Dry In The Sun?
Leaving your car to dry in the sun after washing is not the best approach. In hot weather, leaving your car to dry in direct sunlight can cause water spots and streaks to appear on its finish. This is because the heat from the sun will evaporate the water quickly before it has a chance to run off completely.
Conclusion:
Washing your car in hot weather is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s appearance and longevity. Choosing the right time of day to wash your car is crucial, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials, such as a bucket, soap, sponge, water hose, and towels.
Moreover, wash your car in a shaded area to prevent water spots from forming due to evaporation. To avoid scratching or damaging the paint job on your car’s exterior while washing it, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular cloth. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water after washing off any soap residue.
