Don’t Ignore the Damage Wildfire Smoke Can Do to Your Car

Can Wildfire Smoke Damage a Car?

Dealing with wildfire smoke has become all too common. The effects on air quality are quite clear, but did you know that your car, truck or SUV can be affected? So, can wildfire smoke damage a car? Yes, it can, and the ways the damage can occur are surprising. The team at Davey Auto Sales did a little homework to find some helpful information that could help you keep your automobile looking good and running well for as long as possible. Let’s take a look at what our team found.

READ MORE: Should You Buy a Spare Car?

Smoke Damage to a Car’s Exterior Paint

When organic material burns, the air gets filled will lightweight particulate matter, basically ash. This ash can travel very long distances. If you keep your vehicle parked outside, the ash matter will eventually land on its paint job. Letting the matter accumulate will start the process of breaking down the paint’s protective coating, leading to corrosion. 

The second problem caused by wildfire smoke on a car is abrasions. The particulate matter is very coarse. Simply wiping it off will eventually cause swirls on the finish and a dull overall experience. The best way to keep your car looking good is to carefully wash it by hand using a pH-balanced car soap. This is a situation where professional detailing service might be worth the investment.

Performance Problems Caused By Wildfire Smoke

An internal combustion engine requires that air is combined with fuel to created the explosion needlessly to run. The smoke will eventually find its way into the engine’s air filter. A dirty air filter will cause a decrease in overall performance and fuel economy. Additionally, your car’s air condition will also suffer from dirty filters.

If you’re in an area that is being affected by smoke, you will want to make sure to check the engine air filter and cabin air filter regularly. Replace the filters if they need to be replaced.

Make an appointment with a Davey Auto Sales product expert today if it’s time to look for a top quality pre-owned vehicle.