If you live in Franklin, you already know: Middle Tennessee pollen season is no joke. Every spring, cars turn yellow overnight and allergy sufferers reach for their Zyrtec. But beyond the sneezing, pollen actually has some real effects on your vehicle that are worth knowing about.
Your paint. Pollen is mildly acidic. When it sits on your paint — especially combined with morning dew or rain — it can etch into the clear coat over time. The fix is simple: wash your car regularly during peak pollen season (typically March through May here in Franklin) and apply a coat of wax or sealant to create a barrier between the pollen and your paint.
Your cabin air filter. This filter sits between the outside air and your car’s interior HVAC system. During pollen season, it works overtime. A clogged cabin air filter reduces airflow, strains your blower motor, and allows more allergens into the cabin. If you can’t remember the last time you changed it, spring is the time.
Your engine air filter. While your engine air filter deals with different particles than pollen primarily, heavy spring debris can accelerate clogging. A dirty engine air filter reduces fuel efficiency and can affect performance.
Your wipers. Pollen buildup on your windshield can create a hazy film that’s especially visible when driving into the sun. Keep washer fluid topped off and make sure your wipers are up to the job of clearing it. At Reliable Automotive in Franklin, we can swap out your cabin and engine air filters quickly and affordably. Come in this spring and breathe a little easier — you and your car
