Does rainwater cause water spots on car paint?
Rain itself is often relatively low in minerals, but it collects airborne pollution, dust and pollen on its way down and picks up contamination already on the car. Spots are more likely when dirty rainwater evaporates on a hot panel or mixes with mineral-rich water already present on the vehicle. Rinsing and drying the car after rain, especially before strong sun, reduces the risk.
References
- Hardness of Water, U.S. Geological Survey
- The Physical and Chemical Properties of Water, Drinking Water Inspectorate (UK)
- Hard water, Wikipedia
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