A Guide to Cleaning & Protecting Your Car Paint from Pollen

Learn how to protect your vehicle from pollen and avoid costly damage with our essential tips

Georgia’s beautiful springtime can be a nightmare for car owners, as pollen has become a persistent problem in recent years. The extended warm weather often means a prolonged pollen season, and protecting your car’s paint from this acidic menace can become almost a year-round task. 

In this article, we’ll explore the types of damage pollen can cause, provide practical tips for protecting your vehicle, and answer common questions. 

Whether you’re dealing with a light dusting or stubborn caked-on pollen, we’ll provide you with some strategies to keep your car looking its best through the pollen season and beyond.

When are pollen counts highest in Georgia?

People with allergies can often tell when the pollen count starts rising. The primary tree pollen season in Georgia lasts from around February through June, with the worst months tending to be March and April.

However, warmer weather often extends the pollen season in North Georgia, which means you might need to protect your car’s paint for the majority of the year.

Does pollen ruin the paint on your car?

Yes, pollen can be a real enemy of your car’s paint. Its sticky nature allows it to cling stubbornly to your vehicle’s surface. When left unattended, especially when combined with rain, pollen can create an acidic solution that can gradually dull your car’s finish. 

The potential damage is further exacerbated by improper removal methods, such as using abrasive materials that can cause scratches.

True or false: Is pollen acidic?

Pollen has a high level of acidity, which can eat through your car’s paint over time.

Surprisingly, water does not lower the acidity of pollen; instead, it can make the pollen more acidic, especially after rain or if the pollen isn’t thoroughly washed off.

Additionally, pollen can act like fine sandpaper, causing micro-scratches on your car’s surface, so it’s crucial to be extra thorough with car washing during the pollen season to protect your vehicle’s paint from both its corrosive and abrasive effects.

What does pollen do to cars?

Pollen can cause several types of damage to car paint:

• Acidic damage. The high acidity of pollen can eat through the protective layers of paint, especially if it gets wet and becomes more acidic. This can lead to etching and corrosion of the paint surface.
• Scratches. Pollen can act like fine sandpaper, causing scratches on the paint surface when it is blown by the wind or when you try to wipe it off without proper cleaning.
• Caked-on pollen. When pollen hardens on the car surface due to heat from the sun or the engine, it can be difficult to remove without causing further scratches or damage.
• Swirl marks. Improper cleaning techniques, such as scrubbing or using a brush, can cause swirl marks in the paint, which are tiny, circular scratches that can dull the finish.

How do I protect my car from pollen?

The good news is that you have several effective ways to protect your car’s paint from pollen damage. To shield your vehicle from its harmful effects, consider these tips:

• Wash your car regularly. Consistent washing helps remove pollen before it can cause damage. Use a gentle car wash soap and a soft microfiber cloth or mitt to avoid scratches.
• Avoid scrubbing. When removing hardened pollen, soak the affected areas with water to soften the pollen before gently washing it away. Scrubbing can cause scratches and swirl marks.
• Apply wax. A coat of wax creates a protective barrier that makes it harder for pollen to stick. Regularly waxing your car can help maintain its shine and protect the paint.
• Use a car cover. For those without garages, a car cover can provide an extra layer of protection, especially during peak pollen season.

Additionally, be sure to keep your car’s air filters clean to prevent pollen from circulating inside the vehicle and potentially causing allergic reactions for occupants.

How often should you wash your car during pollen season?

Ideally, you should wash pollen off of your car as soon as you see it. Use a spray hose several times a week to rinse the pollen away. Then, follow up with a complete car wash that includes waxing and applying other protective sealant products once or twice a week during peak pollen season.

What can I put on my car to repel pollen?

While there’s no definitive “pollen repellent” for your car, certain products, like car wax, paint sealant, and paint protection film (PPF), can help minimize pollen buildup and make cleaning easier.

The reality is that no products on the market are foolproof, so regular washing remains crucial for maintaining your car’s appearance during pollen season.

Pollen has baked onto the car hood. How do I get rid of it?

Even in the spring, the outdoor temperatures combined with your car engine’s heat can cause pollen to harden on the car hood. When this happens, the key is to avoid scrubbing the pollen. Instead, you should soak the pollen with water to get it to soften before spraying it away. 

Alternatively, you may need to bring your car to a detailer who can use special products to remove the pollen without causing damage.

How do I fix pollen damage on my paint?

Unfortunately, once pollen has caused damage to your car’s paint, it’s difficult to fully reverse the effects without professional help.

Sometimes, tiny swirls can be buffed out at an auto body shop. More often, cars with extensive pollen damage need repainting to restore their former appearance.

Has Georgia’s pollen season already wreaked havoc on your car’s paint?

If pollen has already caused problems with your car’s paint or you need help removing caked-on pollen without causing damage, reach out to Car Crafters.

With locations in Blue Ridge and Blairsville, Car Crafters has been the local choice for full auto repair and refinishing in North Georgia since 1999. Trust our experienced professionals to restore your car’s appearance and protect it from further damage.

Contact Car Crafters today to schedule an appointment and keep your car looking its best all year round.