Do you still need to wash your car after it rains?

As of this writing, the Philippines is well into the monsoon season. The aforementioned, of course, brings in what many meticulous car guys or gals consider a threat to their pristine rides - rain. 

In some instances, however, particularly heavy rain is able to wash away the gunk and dirt stuck on your car. Some people may think that it may be enough to warrant skipping a trip to the car wash, but is doing so really safe for your ride? Or to be more exact, do you still have to wash your car after it rains? Well, let’s find out here. 

Rainwater is not clean

According to numerous experts, including the US-based National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, rainwater contains a significant amount of toxic chemicals worldwide. 

As further detailed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the aforementioned chemicals, particularly polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), can actually break down the polymers that make up most automotive paints. 

Additionally, PFAS in rainwater is also capable of affecting car paint durability. It may not damage it instantly, but in the long run, just “leaving rainwater to dry” on your car can eventually cause it to fade and lose its glossy, shiny, clear coat finish. 

Because rainwater, especially in cities like Metro Manila, tends to accumulate as puddles on the road, the aforementioned contaminants may harm other parts of the car as well. In some instances, rainwater can likewise cause deterioration in rubber and plastic parts. In areas in proximity to coastlines, salt water can likewise mix with rain and potentially cause rust.  

Sometimes rain is acidic

While rare, rain can also become acidic. 

Per a study published by the De La Salle University Research Coordination Office, some areas in the country, such as San Juan, Pasig City, and Muntinlupa, have higher rain acidification due to increased motor vehicle traffic. Malabon also has high rainfall acidity due to “industries located within its vicinity.” 

By its caustic nature, acid rain can also slowly damage car paint. Its effects may not be immediate, but once acid rain evaporates, it can leave deposits, which, similar to PFAS, can also slowly chip away at the polymers that make up your car’s paint. 

So, in short, yes, it is good practice to wash your car after it rains. 

Tips for washing a car after it rains

So, are there any special things car owners should do when washing a car after it rains? Well, for the most part, they should just wash and maintain their vehicle the regular way as detailed in this article.

One alternative step one can take, in the case of post-rain car washes, however, is to use a pH-neutral car soap. Doing so is designed not to create potentially harmful reactions with chemicals left on your car by rain.

One example of pH-neutral car soap is the Hybrid Solutions Pure Wash distributed globally by Turtle Wax. Several can also be bought from local online shopping websites. 

Final thoughts

As established above, we highly encourage washing your car after it rains, especially if you regularly drive around heavy urban centers like Metro Manila. It will help keep your car paint in pristine condition for a longer period of time, and thus save you some heartache (and a good amount of cash) in the end. 

Also read:

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Number coding 2025: what you need to know

Loving your car 101: how to protect your car’s interior

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