If you’ve lived in Montana for any length of time, you know that late summer often brings something besides warm evenings and camping trips: wildfire season. Even if the flames are miles away, the smoke and ash can drift across towns and highways, leaving everything—including your car—covered in a fine layer of dust.
Most of us think about the health impacts first, like how smoke affects our lungs. But have you ever thought about what wildfire season does to your vehicle? As a collision repair expert who sees all kinds of damage here at OHS Body Shop, I can tell you that smoke and ash aren’t just dirty—they’re corrosive. Left unchecked, they can eat away at your paint, clog up your air systems, and even shorten the life of certain parts. The good news is, with a little care and attention, you can protect your car and keep it looking and running great even in the middle of wildfire season.
The Impact of Ash on Car Paint
At first glance, ash might seem harmless—just some light dust you can wipe off with your hand or a towel. But here’s the problem: wildfire ash often contains acidic particles. When that ash sits on your car’s surface, especially if it gets wet from morning dew or light rain, it can react with the clear coat and paint underneath. Over time, this causes staining, dull spots, or even permanent etching into the finish.
The safest way to handle ash is to wash it off as soon as possible. Don’t be tempted to just wipe it away when your car looks dusty—those particles are abrasive and can scratch the paint if you drag them across the surface. Use plenty of water, a gentle car wash soap, and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. And when you’re done, dry the car completely to avoid streaks and spots.
For added protection, consider applying a wax or sealant before wildfire season kicks in. These coatings create a barrier between the ash and your paint, making it harder for particles to stick and easier to wash them off.
Protecting Your Car’s Air Systems
Paint isn’t the only thing at risk during wildfire season. The smoke and tiny particles in the air can also make their way into your vehicle’s air systems. That includes your cabin air filter, which is responsible for cleaning the air you and your passengers breathe.
When smoke is heavy, your cabin filter works overtime. It traps ash, soot, and fine particles, but eventually, it gets clogged. A clogged filter not only reduces the quality of the air inside your car, but it can also make your A/C system less efficient and put extra strain on the fan. If you’ve noticed reduced airflow or a smoky smell that just won’t go away, it might be time to swap out your cabin filter.
Your engine air filter can also take a beating during wildfire season. If it becomes clogged with ash, your engine may not get the airflow it needs to run efficiently. That can reduce fuel economy and even cause long-term damage. A quick filter check or replacement is a small step that can save you from bigger problems down the road.
The Importance of Detailing
Sometimes protecting your car during wildfire season isn’t just about washing—it’s about deep cleaning. Ash and smoke residue can settle in hard-to-reach places, like the seams around your windows, the grille, or under the hood. Professional detailing can help remove particles from these areas before they cause lasting issues.
Interior detailing is also important. If your car smells like smoke, chances are those particles are trapped in the upholstery, carpet, or ventilation system. Specialized cleaning methods and equipment can help eliminate the smell and restore fresh air to your cabin.
Driving in Smoky Conditions
Wildfire season doesn’t just affect your car when it’s parked. Driving through smoky areas comes with its own set of challenges. Reduced visibility, falling ash, and even the possibility of hot debris on the road mean you need to stay alert. Keep your headlights on, even during the day, and use your recirculate air setting to prevent smoke from being pulled into your car’s cabin.
Also, be cautious about where you park. Avoid leaving your vehicle near active burn areas, and steer clear of spots where ash is falling heavily. Not only will this save you from a cleaning headache, but it will also protect your car from unnecessary exposure.
When to Call the Experts
Even with the best care, wildfire season can leave its mark on your car. Maybe your paint has developed some stubborn stains, or your air systems just don’t smell fresh anymore. That’s where we come in. At OHS Body Shop, we’re not just about fixing collision damage—we also help drivers maintain and restore their vehicles after environmental stress, like smoke and ash exposure.
From professional paint correction and refinishing to full detailing services, we have the tools and expertise to bring your car back to its best. And if you’ve experienced more serious damage, like melted trim or heat-related wear, our repair team is ready to help.
Final Thoughts
Wildfire season is a fact of life here in Montana, but that doesn’t mean your car has to suffer for it. With regular washing, filter maintenance, and smart driving habits, you can minimize the impact of smoke and ash. And if your vehicle needs a little extra attention, you know where to find us.
At OHS Body Shop, we’re here to keep your car safe, clean, and running strong, no matter what the Montana environment throws at it. Stay safe out there, and don’t let wildfire season put a dent in your ride—or your peace of mind.
