Can You Wash a Car That Has Been Exposed to the Sun for a Long Time?
3 Answers
It is not advisable to wash a car that has been exposed to the sun for a long time. When a car is left under the scorching sun, the surface temperature of the body becomes very high. If you wash the car with cold water at this time, it can damage the paint surface, potentially causing cracking or bulging. The internal machinery of the car may also be affected, as the sudden temperature difference can lead to cracks in metal components, which could impair the car's normal operation. Precautions for car washing include: 1. Do not wash the car when the engine has not completely cooled down, as this can cause premature aging of the engine; 2. Avoid washing the car under direct sunlight, as it may leave dried water spot marks on the body; 3. Do not wash the car in extremely cold weather, as water freezing can cause the paint film to crack; 4. Avoid using anything other than soft water for washing, as it can damage the paint.
I've been driving for decades and never wash my car immediately after it's been baking in the sun. Pouring cold water on a hot car is like touching scalding iron with icy hands—it can easily cause the windshield or paint to crack or get damaged. If the windshield cracks, repairs are expensive and troublesome. A friend of mine had his car ruined this way. It's best to wait until the car cools down, at least half an hour, or choose to wash it in the evening when temperatures stabilize. Using lukewarm water while washing reduces risks, and since water dries quickly, it can leave water stains, especially in hard water areas, so drying thoroughly is crucial. Regular car washes protect the paint, but on hot days, patience is key. Remember, safety first—don’t risk harming your beloved car just to save a little time.
I usually pay attention to environmental protection and always avoid washing my car at noon. Washing the car in high temperatures not only wastes water—evaporation is too fast and the effect is poor—but also causes the car body to expand and contract with heat, damaging the chassis and glass. It is recommended to wait until the temperature drops and use room-temperature water for rinsing. Choose environmentally friendly neutral detergents, avoid strong acids and alkalis to prevent corrosion. I DIY car washing to save costs, but I have to choose a shady place to operate, and remember to wipe it dry quickly after washing to prevent water spots. This can extend the life of the car body and is also safer and more reassuring.
