How to prevent vehicle damage following smoke from Canadian wildfire

MIAMI VALLEY — The smoke from the Canadian wildfires filled the sky with haze across the region and could also impact your car.

>>RELATED: How to protect yourself, your house, pets from wildfire smoke

The longer it remains on the car surfaces, the more chance it will permeate into your paint’s pores and cause your painted surfaces to pit and fade, according to AAA.

“We are seeing more pollen-covered vehicles in this part of the county and you’ll want to take steps to clean it without causing damage,” said Eric Hicks, regional manager, AAA Auto Wash, Cincinnati. “If your car sits near any pollen-creating trees, you need to use a hose to spray down any exposed heat exchangers as well. Ultimately pollen will damage and break down the painted surfaces and cause rust.”

AAA is offering this advice:

• If possible, park washed vehicle under the cover or use a car cover.
• If washing the vehicle is not an option or it is between washes, gently wipe off ash or pollen with a soft car duster or cloth.
• Resist the urge to clean a windshield by turning on the wipers and scratching the glass. Instead, replace or wipe down each blade and wet the windshield before adding in wiper fluid and using the wipers.
• Using a leaf blower to clear dust off the vehicle may seem like a good idea, but area health officials warn against sending the ash and pollen back into the air.
• Thoroughly vacuum vehicle floor mats and car surfaces.
• While driving, run the air conditioner on re-circulate until the outside air quality significantly improves.
• Use a hose to spray down any heat exchangers if your car engine compartment has been exposed.
• Depending on where and how much you have driven recently, the vehicle might need the air filters in the engine or passenger areas cleaned or replaced. Ask a trusted mechanic to check them the next time you visit the shop.
• When the smoke clears, add an extra layer of protection to your paint by waxing your vehicle after washing it and letting it cool down.

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