Some observations about keeping a car clean

[Daveyboy 445]

Some people feel that keeping a car clean is just for cosmetic appearance, but i've found some very practical results from doing this.

1. A clean car accelerates and generally drives more smoothly than that same car when its dirty.....my take on this is that the car's surfaces cut the air molecules more efficiently providing less drag

2. Coating tires with protectant allows for a smoother drive on rough roads......my guess is that it allows more flexing of the rubber on rough surfaces as opposed to the hardening that occurs when tires are dry.

3. Moistening door rubbers helps maintain the life of these surfaces

4. Engine and underbody washing helps prevent dry rotting of rubberized parts in these areas

I know that some or all of these things seem obvious, but its surprising how many people feel that keeping up a regime of car cleanliness is just a personal vanity. Your thoughts guys...

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

Well, in all honesty we're not so sure those first two points are anything more than that psychological boost that comes from just cleaning a car thoroughly. Almost anyone will tell you that a clean car just seems to drive better than a dirty one but we just can't believe that this is truly down to lowered air and rolling resistance because of the clean up. Don't get us wrong here, we feel that very lift every time we clean up a seriously dirty car, but we really think it's all just in our heads. Then again, we are pretty Car Crazy, so who knows?!

As for your points 3 & 4, no doubt about it - keeping rubber trim pieces, etc clean and conditioned will prolong their lifespan and this treatment should be done regularly.

[Poki]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

And don't forget how having spotless clean windshield and windows makes the weather outside much better! The blue sky, puffy white clouds and flowers just look so much better!!!

[Car Potential]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

I too have thought my car runs better when it is clean but it is probably just me thinking that. Now keeping my car clean means reminding me of when it was brand new and I like to keep it flawless inside and out as well as keeping my engine healthy. So if I was to have it for 10+ years it might not run the exact same but it should look the same and so its as if my car doesn't really age and my car is still brand newish all these years later.

And as Poki said above, cleaning the windows does make the weather outside better!

[Tuck91]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

I too feel better when driving a clean vehicle. My gripe is filthy floormats and carpets loaded with debris.

Even in the winter I still do quick 20 minute spray downs and mitt the vehicle with a bucket of hot soapy water just to get the salt off.

[STRIFE]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

my cars are soo clean that even when it get dirty it still looks kinda clean....to other people

[Blueline]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

And don't forget how having spotless clean windshield and windows makes the weather outside much better! The blue sky, puffy white clouds and flowers just look so much better!!!

"giggles"
I get better radio reception when my antenna is clean.

[BillE]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

I think vehicles have feelings!

See the guy (or gal) yelling at their poor neglected dirty car for not starting, car says, "Ain't gonna do it."

Car is all nice and pretty (has been shown some love)...starts right up.

Okay, tad far fetched...but think about...Karma?

Bill


We need a smily of a 'big smooch to a car'.

[ChevyNick]

I think vehicles have feelings!

See the guy (or gal) yelling at their poor neglected dirty car for not starting, car says, "Ain't gonna do it."

Car is all nice and pretty (has been shown some love)...starts right up.

Okay, tad far fetched...but think about...Karma?

Bill


We need a smily of a 'big smooch to a car'.

Haha I kinda believe in that whole car feeling thing as well.

[SVT Lightning]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

Didn't Mythbusters test #1?

[RBBTCAR]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

What...? After all those years I thought my Civic was faster than a Ferrari if its pristine in and out ! But it surely does make me feel better if my car is clean and spotless (I'll just settle for that)...

[Scott's 62]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

I have a 95 f150 that my dad bought new then I bought it from him in 05 he is the same way I am keeps it clean and running right. All the paint is original and the interior is spotless, looks brand new so I guess having you ride clean they might last a bit longer.

[ChevyNick]

Didn't Mythbusters test #1?

If I remember correctly, yes. I believe the difference was so small it wasn't worth fighting over. In fact, I think they ended up moulding the outside of the car with clay and made the surface similar to a golf ball, and they actually saw a somewhat significant increase in gas mileage. So, yeah, realistically, a clean car vs dirty car mpg: not worth losing sleep over.

[SVT Lightning]

Re: Some observations about keeping a car clean

If I remember correctly, yes. I believe the difference was so small it wasn't worth fighting over. In fact, I think they ended up moulding the outside of the car with clay and made the surface similar to a golf ball, and they actually saw a somewhat significant increase in gas mileage. So, yeah, realistically, a clean car vs dirty car mpg: not worth losing sleep over.

Now I remember! The golf ball test did it.