Is Washing Your Car While Living in Midland-Odessa Pointless?

If you live in Midland-Odessa, Texas, and own a vehicle, then you fully understand the struggle it can be to keep your car looking clean and beautiful.  How many times have you taken the time, money, and energy to wash your car only to have it dirty hours or even minutes later?

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Frustrations Fueled By the Environment

We live in a pretty dry environment.  Some may even consider Midland-Odessa a desert region due to the overabundance of sand, dirt, and lack of green vegetation. If you toss in the high winds we experience, it spells a recipe for disaster.

In addition, we occasionally have dust storms.  This can blanket entire areas with falling sand from the sky.  Having said that, it can be pretty difficult to keep your car clean in that kind of environment.

What Happens If You Don't Wash Your Car

While the easy thing to do would be to stop washing your car altogether, it is not advised.  Here is what will happen if you never wash your car again.

Short-Term Effects

Most of us experience the short-term effects of a dirty car.  This can include the build-up of dirt and dust.  This can be an eyesore.  Previous rain droplets dry spots can also transfer microscopic minerals to the surface of the paint.  Dried bird droppings can also eat away at the paint if left on the vehicle for too long.

Long-Term Effects

The paint can be damaged if dirt, dust, and debris are left on the vehicle for too long.  This can cause the clear coat to be eaten away and later lead to oxidation and rust.  Dirt can also accumulate in certain areas, like the undercarriage or wheel well, which can affect performance.

Extreme Neglect

Mold and mildew caused by extreme neglect can develop, sometimes causing a foul or musty smell.  Headlights can fog or get cloudy, which can be dangerous.  This kind of neglect can also have repercussions on the car's resale value.

Conclusion

While maintaining a clean car while living in Midland-Odessa may seem pointless, it is essential regardless of what region you live in.  Maybe even more so while living in the Permian Basin.