Washing your car in direct sunlight can cause streaks, spots, and paint issues. Here’s why it happens — and how to avoid it.
Washing your car on a sunny day might seem convenient, but direct sunlight can work against you. Heat and sun exposure affect how water and soap behave on your paint.
That’s why cars washed in direct sun often end up with streaks, water spots, or dull-looking paint — even after a thorough wash.
Direct sunlight causes water and soap to dry too fast, leading to:
These effects make it harder to rinse and dry properly without marks.
If you need to wash your car on a sunny day:
These steps reduce spotting and help protect your paint.
Yes — washing your car in direct sunlight can cause issues, but it doesn’t mean you can’t wash on sunny days at all. Timing, shade, and technique make all the difference.
📍 If you’re in New York, RetroClean Detailing washes vehicles under controlled conditions to prevent sun-related damage and water spotting.
