Spring has sprung in the Carolinas and with it comes blankets of airborne tree pollen. In addition to causing watery eyes and sneezing, pollen can also wreak havoc on vehicles.
Even for motorists who park their vehicles in a garage, it’s an impossible task to avoid pollen completely. During this time of year, pollen affects vehicles both inside and out.
“While pollen can be a springtime enemy for allergy sufferers, it can also be a nemesis to your car,” said Tiffany Wright, AAA Carolinas spokesperson. “It’s important not to neglect the effects pollen can have on your vehicle.”
AAA recommends the following tips for motorists to protect their vehicles from pollen:
Clean your cabin air filter. Most vehicles manufactured on or after the year 2000 have an air filter for the interior that filters out airborne particles – including pollen. Many motorists are unaware of these filters altogether and therefor do not know that they need to be changed. Luckily, they are easy to locate and change without having to take it to a mechanic. They’re normally located under the hood, often near the base of the windshield, or behind the glove compartment. This information can be found in the owner’s manual as well. It is recommended to change these filters at least once a year. The filter replacements can be found in local auto stores and usually range from about $10-$35. If your vehicle does not have a cabin air filter, most of the time it can be added in. Click here for an air filter video with AAA Carolinas Car Care Technician Jason Karp.
Keep the vehicle’s exterior clean. Wiping pollen off a vehicle can cause scratches. The best remedy for a pollen-coated car is to take it to a car wash or rinse it off with water at the very least. AAA recommends starting with a freshly washed car and then applying a solid coat of wax. This will allow motorists to just rinse the pollen off weekly or more.
Keep pollen from finding its way inside the vehicle. Though it’s tempting to roll down the windows and enjoy the spring breeze, motorists looking to avoid pollen should keep windows rolled up to prevent a pollen build-up. The early morning and early evening are the most prominent times for pollen. A damp cloth can remove built-up pollen on the dash and a small vacuum can get it up off the floor boards..
