This one tiny insect could damage your car and end up costing you €500
This tiny insect can leave sticky residue on cars that's almost invisible to the naked eye
Irish drivers are being warned that greenflies could cause costly paint damage to cars this summer.
This tiny insect can leave serious sticky residue on cars that are almost invisible to the naked eye.
However if left untreated, it can quietly eat through the clear coat and paint of your car.
This can cause damage that's expensive to fix.
Director of Marketing of 123.ie, Conor Byrne has revealed how drivers can avoid an expensive bill this summer.
How much damage can green flies actually do to your car?
Most people would think that bird droppings are the only environmental threat to a car's exterior worth worrying about.
However, Conor Byrne says that greenfly damage is just as serious and far more underestimated.
The insects release a sticky substance called honeydew that bonds to your car's paintwork.
In warm weather, this quickly hardens into a film, which then eats through the clear coat, causing the paint beneath to break down and deteriorate.
Mr Byrne said: "If left long enough, it can permanently damage your car's paint."
Mr Byrne added that leaving it too long could result in paying a hefty price and said: "A single panel respray in Ireland can be anywhere from €300 to €500, which is why it's so important for drivers to be aware of the risk and take steps to protect their car, particularly the roof and bonnet, which are the most exposed."
What's the safest way to remove it?
It is advised to not wipe it off dry, as dried honeydew has a gritty texture. This will scratch the paintwork if you drag a dry cloth across it, causing even more damage.
Instead soak the area with warm, soapy water, leave it for a few minutes, then gently wipe it with a clean cloth.
For residue that's already hardened, you can purchase a bug and tar remover.
These are usually sold from most car accessories shops
This will help break it down safely without damaging the clear coat and saving you money this summer.
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