Keeping a car in good shape often means using the right products for maintenance and cleaning. However, some popular auto products can actually damage your vehicle over time. By choosing car-safe products and avoiding shortcuts, you can keep your vehicle in great condition, prevent damage, and possibly extend its lifespan. Here’s a list of 20 auto products that may do more harm than good, along with tips on how to better care for your car.
Dish Soap for Car Wash
Risk: Dish soap strips protective wax and can dull paint over time.
Tip: Use car-specific wash products designed to clean without damaging paint or protective coatings.
canadiangearhead
Generic Glass Cleaner (with Ammonia)
Risk: Ammonia-based cleaners can damage tint film and leave streaks on glass.
Tip: Use ammonia-free, automotive-specific glass cleaners that are safe for tinted windows.
chemicalguys
Petroleum-Based Tire Shine
Risk: Petroleum products can degrade rubber, causing tires to dry out and crack over time.
Tip: Opt for water-based tire dressings to achieve a shine without harming the rubber.
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Cheap Engine Degreasers
Risk: Some contain harsh chemicals that can strip protective coatings and harm wiring.
Tip: Use a quality engine cleaner and carefully rinse, avoiding overspray on sensitive areas.
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Household Multi-Purpose Cleaners
Risk: These can contain abrasive ingredients that scratch or damage interior plastics and leather.
Tip: Use products specifically designed for automotive interiors, especially on touchscreens and sensitive surfaces.
Michael Hession
Brake Dust Cleaners with Harsh Acids
Risk: Acidic cleaners can erode brake calipers, paint, and wheel finishes.
Tip: Use pH-balanced wheel cleaners that are formulated for use on brake dust without corroding metal.
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Automatic Transmission Fluid as a Power Steering Fluid Substitute
Risk: Using ATF instead of power steering fluid can lead to seal damage and system leaks.
Tip: Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluid to avoid costly repairs.
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Gasoline Additives (Cheap or Unverified Brands)
Risk: Low-quality additives can cause clogs and potentially damage fuel injectors and the fuel system.
Tip: Stick to reputable fuel additives if needed and avoid frequent use. High-quality gasoline can also help keep the engine clean.
thedrive
Hydrogen Peroxide as a Stain Remover for Upholstery
Risk: Hydrogen peroxide can bleach fabric and cause discoloration.
Tip: Use gentle, car-approved upholstery cleaners for safe and effective stain removal.
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Cheap Oil Filters
Risk: Low-quality filters may lack proper filtration, leading to poor oil flow and possible engine damage.
Tip: Use OEM or high-quality oil filters recommended for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance.
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Automatic Car Washes with Harsh Brushes
Risk: The brushes can scratch the paint and leave swirl marks, dulling the finish over time.
Tip: Use touchless or hand washes whenever possible to protect the paint. Consider waxing after washes for extra protection.
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Silicone-Based Interior Dressings
Risk: These can cause interior surfaces to become overly shiny, attracting dust and even drying out plastics over time.
Tip: Choose water-based interior cleaners and protectants for a more natural look and long-term preservation.
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WD-40 on Rubber Components
Risk: WD-40 can degrade rubber seals and gaskets, leading to cracking and leaks.
Tip: Use silicone spray for rubber parts to lubricate and protect without degradation.
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Household Bleach as a Cleaner
Risk: Bleach can be highly corrosive to car paint, rubber, and metals, causing permanent damage.
Tip: Use automotive cleaners specifically formulated to clean and disinfect without corrosion.
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Waterless Wash Products with Abrasives
Risk: Abrasives in low-quality waterless washes can scratch the paint if dirt is not properly removed.
Tip: Invest in high-quality, non-abrasive waterless wash products and soft microfiber cloths for safe cleaning.
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Ammonia-Based Leather Cleaners
Risk: Ammonia dries out leather, causing cracks and damage over time.
Tip: Use pH-balanced leather conditioners that clean while nourishing the leather.
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Cheap Car Wax
Risk: Low-quality waxes may wear off quickly or contain harsh chemicals that damage paint.
Tip: Use high-quality, natural or synthetic waxes for long-lasting shine and paint protection.
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Vinegar as a Window Cleaner
Risk: Though vinegar is effective, it can damage tinted windows and rubber seals.
Tip: Use automotive glass cleaner designed for tinted windows to clean without risking damage.
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Baby Wipes for Interior Cleaning
Risk: Baby wipes contain alcohol and other ingredients that can dry out leather and plastics.
Tip: Use microfiber cloths and car-specific cleaning products for interior surfaces to avoid drying and cracking.
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Dry Brushing on a Dirty Car
Risk: Brushing without water or lubricant scratches the paint as dirt is dragged across the surface.
Tip: Always rinse your car first to remove loose dirt, and use a lubricated cloth or wash mitt to minimize scratches.
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