Meguiar’s warns to protect cars from CA wildfires

IRVINE, CA — The wildfires raging throughout California are also posing a threat to vehicles, warns Barry Meguiar, the president and CEO of Meguiar’s, a press release reported.

The August 31 press release quoted Meguiar who said, “The elements in wood ash include calcium, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium, which are inert and have no effect on finishes in their dry form. There is, however, a serious risk of chemical etching on automotive paint finishes when these elements are mixed with water. Leaving an ash-covered car outside on wet nights or foggy mornings may very well result in chemical etching and, in some cases, serious damage to a vehicle’s painted surfaces.”

Also, when potassium is mixed with water it can form potassium hydroxide, which can work as a corrosive drain cleaner. 

Meguiar’s suggests keeping vehicles in a secure garage or using a fitted car cover, and to clean cars thoroughly, even after the fires subside.