As an automotive care specialist with years of experience in vehicle maintenance and detailing, I've had the opportunity to test a wide range of cleaning products on various car surfaces. When it comes to using Dawn dish soap for cleaning cars, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, it's important to understand that Dawn dish soap is designed primarily for cleaning dishes and kitchen utensils. It is formulated to cut through grease and grime effectively, which is why it's often praised for its cleaning power. However, this effectiveness is due to its abrasive nature. The abrasiveness is what makes it excellent for removing stubborn food stains from dishes but can also be the reason it might not be the best choice for car paint.

Car paint is a delicate surface that requires a gentle touch. The abrasive ingredients in dish soap can potentially accelerate the oxidation process on car paint, leading to a dull and faded appearance over time. Oxidation is a natural process where the clear coat on the car's paint reacts with oxygen in the air, causing it to lose its shine and become brittle. Using an abrasive cleaner can exacerbate this process.

Moreover, car surfaces are not limited to paint. They also include rubber, plastic, and chrome components. Dish soap, being a strong detergent, can be quite harsh on these materials. It can break down a car's wax coat, which serves as a protective barrier against the elements and helps maintain the paint's gloss and shine. Additionally, it can cause discoloration or degradation of rubber and plastic parts, which are often sensitive to strong chemicals.

It's also worth noting that car wash soaps and car shampoos are specifically formulated to be gentle on car surfaces while still providing the necessary cleaning power. They are pH balanced and often contain lubricating agents that help prevent scratches and swirl marks during the washing process. These soaps also maintain the hydrophobic properties of waxes and sealants, ensuring that water beads up and rolls off the surface, which helps to keep the car clean and protected.

In conclusion, while Dawn dish soap is a powerful cleaning agent, it is not recommended for use on car paint or other sensitive car surfaces due to its abrasive nature and potential to cause damage over time. It's always best to use products that are specifically designed for automotive use to ensure the longevity and appearance of your vehicle's finish.

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While it does a good job, it's good because it's considered an abrasive soap. But, when you use an abrasive soap on something like car paint, it accelerates the oxidation process and gives the car a dull look. Dish soap will also break down a car's wax coat and can be tough on rubber.May 5, 2015read more >>