What are the effects of Sahara wind on cars?

The effects of the Sahara wind on our beautiful cars

Rains laden with dust from the Sahara often cover our cars and cause the following inconveniences:

•        The layer of abrasive sand is applied to the bodywork and the windows
•         Air filter clogged with sand
•         Sand infiltration into window seals and rails

This phenomenon, which has been increasing in recent years, is linked to Saharan winds, including the sirocco. It requires certain precautions to avoid damaging your vehicle.

But first, where does this dust come from?

Saharan dust, concentrated in the atmosphere, is composed of fine mineral particles, mainly quartz and feldspar, resulting from the erosion of desert rocks.

They are transported to Europe, particularly to France, by low pressure systems and winds such as the sirocco, a hot wind from the Sahara.

Result: a light veil of yellow or orange dust settles on the vehicles.

What are the effects of this dust on your car?

Although this phenomenon is natural and poses no direct danger to the bodywork, it can nevertheless have undesirable effects:

1. Micro-scratches on the paint : Sand is very abrasive. If you rub the dust off with a cloth or sponge, you risk damaging the paint. If you turn on the windshield wipers carelessly, you risk damaging the windows.
2. Dirt on windows and windshields : The layer of dust reduces visibility and can make windshield wipers ineffective, especially in the rain when the dust turns to mud.
3. Clogged air filter and air intakes : Sand particles enter the air vents and clog the air filter, reducing your engine's performance.
4. Deterioration of seals and moving parts : Sand also seeps into door seals and window rails, accelerating their wear.

How to protect your car from the Sahara wind?

Whether your car is parked in a garage or outside, we recommend using a My Roadster® car cover ; it's the best way to protect your car's bodywork from the dust of the Saharan winds. Once the wind has passed, the cover can simply be machine washed if it's too dirty. The car cover not only prevents damage to your bodywork, windshield, and engine, but also saves you from having to wash it multiple times.

If you do not wish to use a cover, here are the precautions to take:

1. Never rub dust dry : Before cleaning your car, wait until the sand episode is over and rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove most of the sand particles first.
2. Gentle and careful washing : Once the dust is rinsed off, use shampoo and a microfiber cloth to clean the car without risking scratching the paint.
3. Air Filter Maintenance : Check and change your air filter regularly to prevent clogging and loss of performance.
4. Grease window seals and tracks : To prevent wear caused by sand buildup, apply a suitable lubricant to the window seals and tracks.

Saharan winds are a natural phenomenon that can affect your vehicle if you don't take precautions. Using a protective cover, washing your car properly, and maintaining your vehicle properly will help you preserve its condition and avoid unpleasant surprises.

There you have it, now you know everything you need to face the next Saharan wind. With My Roadster® , your cover will be shipped quickly and even free of charge to relay points and you will have the best protection for your vehicle.