As the days grow shorter and the evenings turn cooler, you might notice that your vehicle isn’t looking as vibrant as it did at the start of the summer. Many assume that with warmer weather, dry roads, and less precipitation, their cars should be relatively clean by the end of the season. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
STUBBORN SUMMER FILM
Throughout the summer, your car encounters a different kind of fine particulate than it does during cooler months. Dust, dry pollen, wildfire soot, and even asphalt particles from road deterioration are all easily made airborne in the summer heat. These ultra-fine contaminants then settle on your car's hot surface and, under intense UV rays, effectively bake onto your paint and glass. Initially, the buildup isn’t very noticeable. But as the season winds down, you might begin to see a light haze or milky film on your vehicle’s surface—a sign of accumulated summer grime. While a visit to Autowash might knock down this film for many drivers, a more signifiant buildup, or a car without durable protection applied may not come clean fully after the wash.
ADDITIONAL FACTORS AT PLAY
Beyond the unique conditions and contamination of the summer, other factors contribute to the buildup on your vehicle:
More Time on the Road: According to AAA, the average American driver increases their mileage by about 10-12% during peak summer. Whether it’s for vacations, road trips, car shows, or simply enjoying the sunshine, more miles mean more exposure to the elements—and more opportunities for dirt and grime to accumulate on your car.
Less Frequent Washing: Let's face it, you have to wash more in the winter. Snow, rain, and sloppy roads mean more frequent visits to your favorite Autowash location. In summer, when roads are dry, rain is less frequent, and your car is more dusty than dirty you wash less. This unfortunately means the contamination gets more time to bake onto the surface.
Spray Sunblock Residue: With more outdoor activities come the widespread use of spray sunblock. While protecting your skin from UV rays is important, the spray can travel several feet beyond its intended target—landing on your car in the process. This can bond to your vehicle’s paint along with the other airborne particulates, adding to the stubborn summer film.
HOW TO RESTORE YOUR VEHICLE'S SHINE
Don’t let the fear of buildup ruin your summer fun! By this point in the season, it’s a good idea to give your vehicle’s exterior a deeper clean. The combination of intense heat, UV rays, and months of exposure means that a standard wash might not be enough to fully restore your car’s shine. Here’s what you can do:
Post-Wash Wipe-Down: For light buildup, start with a simple post-wash wipe-down using high-quality microfiber towels and a product like Autowash Complete Clean®️. After a visit to the automatic or self-serve wash at your nearest Autowash location, mist small sections of your vehicle with Complete Clean and wipe with a microfiber towel. Begin with the windows, then work your way down the paint. Inspect your towel frequently, and flip it to a clean side when needed. Don’t forget to apply a fresh layer of protection—sealing your paint before the first snow makes cleaning easier and adds protection from the elements.
Deep Cleaning with a Clay Bar: If you’re dealing with more stubborn summer film, a clay bar treatment is your best bet. The Autowash x Adam’s Clay and Seal Kit is perfect for this job. After washing, use the clay bar to remove the buildup from all exterior surfaces, including paint, glass, headlights, and taillights. Once you’ve cleaned the surface, top it off with the included Graphene Boost paint sealant to ensure your car is ready for the coming fall and winter months.
WRAPPING UP
Summer leaves behind more than just memories—it can leave your car with a layer of stubborn grime. But with a few simple steps, you can easily restore that showroom shine and prep your vehicle for the next season. Take advantage of cooler evening temperatures to tackle any buildup, and apply a layer of protection for the months ahead. Not only will your car look amazing again, but it’ll also be better protected for whatever fall and winter throw your way.
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