Is it dumb to wash your car before it rains?

Have you ever noticed every time you want to wash your car it rains right after? Is it worth washing it if you know its going to rain?

CAR OWNER EDUCATION

Jay Latona

4/11/20243 min read

As a car owner, you may have heard the old wives' tale that washing your car before it rains is a waste of time and money. But is there any truth to this belief? In this article, we will explore the idea of washing your car before it rains and whether it is a smart or dumb decision.

The Myth

The belief that washing your car before it rains is a waste of time and money stems from the idea that the rain will simply undo all of your hard work. Many people believe that the rain will leave behind water spots and dirt, making your car look even dirtier than before. However, this is not entirely true.

The Truth

While it is true that rain can leave behind water spots and dirt, it is not the rain itself that causes this. The real culprit is the air. As rain falls through the atmosphere, it picks up pollutants and contaminants, such as dust and pollen. When the rain hits your car, these pollutants are left behind, causing water spots and dirt. So, whether you wash your car before or after it rains, you will still have to deal with these issues. If you would like to protect your vehicle from these exact issues from creating havoc on your clear coat, consider a ceramic coating!

A ceramic coating will keep your car looking cleaner longer and with much less effort. Water will bead off your car rather than leaving those pesky water spots we all dread and hate. Things like pollen and dust won't be able to stick as easily as they once have as the ceramic coat adds a protective ultra slick layer to the paint, making it nearly impossible for things to grab to. As someone who lives on a dirt road, you would be amazed to know that very rarely is it evident that I do, as it takes a real muddy day to stick to my paint!

Rain Protection

So, if washing your car before it rains won't prevent water spots and dirt, is there any benefit to doing so? The answer is yes. By washing your car before it rains, you are actually providing a layer of protection for your car's paint. The soap and water used in the washing process create a barrier between your car's paint and the pollutants in the rain. This can help prevent damage to your car's paint and keep it looking shiny and new.

Timing is Key

While washing your car before it rains can provide some protection, timing is key. If you wash your car too far in advance, the protection may wear off before the rain even arrives. On the other hand, if you wait until the rain has already started, it may be too late to provide any protection. The best time to wash your car before it rains is within 24 hours of the rain's arrival. This will ensure that the soap and water are still providing a barrier for your car's paint.

Other Benefits

Aside from rain protection, there are other benefits to washing your car before it rains. For one, it can save you time and effort. If you wait until after it rains, you may have to spend more time scrubbing away at stubborn dirt and grime. Additionally, washing your car before it rains can also help prevent damage from acid rain. The soap and water can neutralize the acidic properties of the rain, protecting your car's paint from potential damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing your car before it rains is not a dumb decision. While it may not prevent water spots and dirt, it can provide a layer of protection for your car's paint. Just remember to time it right and wash your car within 24 hours of the rain's arrival. So, next time you hear someone say it's dumb to wash your car before it rains, you can confidently tell them the truth.