Will wildfire smoke damage your car in Charlotte? How to wash ash off your vehicle

Smoke from wildfires in Canada continues to move into North Carolina, leaving a gloomy gaze in places and affecting air quality.

And in addition to protecting your health, your pets and your home, experts say you need to exercise caution when cleaning your car. Failing to do so could do lasting damage to your vehicle’s paint job.

Some have already started to notice particles from the wildfires settling on their cars in the Carolinas, such as Charlotte meteorologist Brad Panovich, who shared a video on Instagram on Wednesday showing build-up on his vehicle.

Here’s what to know about getting smoke and ash off your car:

Does wildfire ash damage car paint?

The minerals in wildfire ash that can settle on your car can cause chemical reactions that damage the paint job, especially if the car gets wet, the Speedy Sparkle Car Wash chain advises.

“Chemical etching can happen, and it doesn’t have to rain either,” the group says. “Sprinkler systems, morning dew, and even fog can create conditions ripe for chemical etching. If left untreated, etching can occur and cause significant damage to paint, clear coat, or both.”

Additionally, the ash is abrasive, so it can scratch your car’s paint if you try to wipe it off, per the chain.

How do you remove ash from car paint?

AAA of Southern California recommends getting ash and soot off your car as fast as possible amid wildfires.

“If washing the vehicle at home, wet thoroughly and wash with warm water, a soft mitt, towel or sponge, and formulated car wash soap,” the agency recommends. “Start at the car roof and work your way down and around the panels. Rinse vehicle thoroughly and dry with a soft clean towel or chamois.”

Pay special attention to your headlights and taillights to avoid visibility issues the next time you drive. You also shouldn’t neglect the inside of your car, AAA notes, suggesting that you “vacuum vehicle floor mats and cloth surfaces.”

“It may take more than one wash to remove ash since it will continue to fall for the next several days,” the group adds.

And if possible, AAA suggests, you should store your car in a garage when wildfire smoke is potentially moving into your area to prevent a build-up in the first place.