As autumn approaches, UK motorists are being warned about the potential risks of parking under certain trees and the damage it can cause to vehicles.
Experts at Auto Trader have highlighted how falling leaves and tree sap can cause significant damage to car paintwork during the wetter months.
The warning comes as many common British trees release tannins and organic acids when their wet leaves land on vehicles. These substances can stain or corrode paintwork if not promptly removed.
Oak trees, common throughout the UK, pose a significant risk to parked vehicles. Their leaves contain high levels of tannins, which can leach out when wet and leave brown or yellow stains on car paintwork. This is particularly problematic for light-coloured vehicles.
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Larger vehicles are particularly vulnerable to tree damage
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Tom Roberts from Auto Trader said: “While the UK’s summers are unpredictable – one thing is for certain, as we approach October, rain and wet falling leaves are inevitable!
“If you have no choice but to park under a tree, you should try to remove any fallen leaves regularly to prevent prolonged exposure to tannins and sap.
“Also, be aware that removing hardened sap on your own can make the damage worse, so it’s best to visit a professional detailer to avoid further degradation to your car’s paintwork.
“Before we enter the wet and rainy seasons, you might consider applying a protective layer of wax or sealant on the exterior of your car, as an extra line of defence.”
Larger vehicles like MPVs are particularly vulnerable due to their expansive roof surfaces, which provide more area for leaves to accumulate, he stated.
Sycamore trees, though not native, are also widespread and can cause similar issues. Their leaves produce tannins, resulting in brown spots on car paint. However, the sticky sap they produce, known as honeydew, is even more troublesome.
Roberts added: “Simple precautions, like removing the leaves from the roof and body of your car and washing your car regularly, even in winter, can help stop this damage from happening.”
He also recommended being mindful of which trees drivers park under to minimise potential damage.
Maple trees, native to the UK, can also cause problems for parked cars. Their leaves contain tannins that stain paintwork when wet, but it’s the sap that poses the greatest threat.
The sap hardens quickly and bonds tightly to car paint, making it extremely difficult to remove without professional help.
Pine trees, though less common, are equally problematic. Their sticky sap can cause cracks in a vehicle’s clear coat, potentially leading to rust and corrosion.
Birch, cherry, and poplar trees produce sticky sap that hardens rapidly. Poplar sap is particularly corrosive and damaging to car paintwork.
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Drivers should apply a protective layer of wax or sealant to cars
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Roberts also cautioned against attempting to remove hardened sap without professional help, as this could exacerbate the damage.
He recommended visiting a professional detailer to avoid further degradation of the car’s paintwork.
As a preventative measure, motorists are advised to apply a protective layer of wax or sealant to their vehicle’s exterior before the wet season begins.
This extra line of defence can help avoid costly repairs and maintain the car’s value.
