What causes oxidation spots on car rearview mirrors that cannot be wiped off?
2 Answers
Oxidation spots on car glass are mostly caused by substances like bird droppings or resin adhering to the glass for a long time without being cleaned. Compared to other dust and dirt, oxidation spots on car glass are the most difficult to remove, and ordinary cleaning methods often fail to eliminate them completely. Additional information: Cleaning method: You can use a clay bar to scrub the glass. The clay bar has a certain abrasive effect and can remove stubborn stains from the glass. It is important to note that highly corrosive cleaners should be avoided when cleaning car glass to prevent damage and impaired visibility. White haze on glass: A white haze on the glass may be caused by temperature differences or an oil film. If it is an oil film, ordinary cleaning methods will not remove it, and a specialized cleaner is required.
I drive quite frequently, and it's common for oxidation spots to appear on the rearview mirror, especially when I park under trees or near industrial areas. Those spots can't be wiped off mainly because the mirror's surface coating has been corroded. Acidic substances in rainwater or bird droppings can cause oxidation when left on the surface for a long time, eventually forming hard mineral deposits. I once tried using ordinary soapy water to clean them, but it only made things worse—turns out, the cleaner was too harsh and damaged the coating. Now, I use specialized glass cleaners or a baking soda solution. However, if the spots are too large, I have to take it to a professional shop for polishing, as blurred vision while driving can be a safety hazard. When parking, I try to avoid areas with lots of plants and trees, and regularly rinsing the mirror with clean water helps prevent this issue. Keeping the mirror clean is really crucial.