Dr Hilary Jones warns public not to wash cars in lockdown
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The specialists also claim using washing up liquids can eat into a vehicle causing “premature corrosion and colour fading”. Instead, drivers should opt for specialist shampoos and microfiber cloths which are less rough and are more likely to prevent damage.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar said damaging the car’s clear coat risks exposing metal which can lead to major consequences.
They warned stopping “superficial problems” early can prevent bigger issues from later developing.
The spokesperson said: “If the clear coat protecting the bodywork and paint gets damaged, it exposes metal to all of the outdoor elements.
“Rust, surface bubbles, fading, and discoloration are a strong possibility once rain, snow and mud get in, impacting on the appeal of the car when it comes to reselling and driving with pride.
“Nipping those superficial problems in the bud will help prevent them from becoming much larger issues down the line.”
LeaseCar have urged drivers to avoid these cleaning methods near their vehicle at any cost.
Washing up liquid
Drivers still use the common chemical despite the detrimental effects the simple solution can cause.
Experts have waned washing up liquid can accelerate the oxidation process and eat into the topcoat over time.
This will lead to corrosion and colour fading which could lead to costly paint jobs.
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Towels, flannels and sponges
LeaseCar have warned old towels or flannels may have detergent residue on which could cause havoc with the vehicle.
Another concern is the rough-seamed edges on romal towels which can inflict damage to the top layer of paint.
They said: “The way towels are woven, and the way sponges are formed, allow them to hold deeply ingrained dirt.
“This grit could cause fine scratches on the surface of a car when drying or cleaning. Microfiber cloths are a much better alternative.”
Use the same cloth twice
They warn even using a microfiber cloth will not completely prevent damage if the same cloth is used a second or third time.
Even dropping the cloth could cause it to pick up tiny granules if grit which may then be rubbed across the surface of your vehicle.
LeaseCar said: “Either wash the cloth thoroughly in specialist car safe detergent or opt for single-use cloths.
A jet wash or hose
The experts warn using a pressurised jet could work its way under any exposed paint edges and cause further damage.
The rubber seals on a car window or door are only designed to keep rain and puddles away and not high-intensity water pressure.
Automatic car wash
LeaseCar have also urged drivers to reconsider using automatic car washes regularly.
They said they can be quick fixes to get rid of vast amounts of mud and dirt but should not be used as a regular method of cleaning.
A spokesperson added: “Although a vehicle might appear spotless after a ride through the automatic car wash, a closer look at the bristles and strips of drying cloth will expose the road grime and scum it has scraped past the bodywork.”
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