Seven vehicle parts that must be checked after exposure to volcanic ash
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau does not only need to be cleaned off a vehicle’s bodywork. The abrasive particles can also enter various components and risk disrupting the vehicle’s performance if left for too long.
Volcanic ash differs from ordinary dust. Its particles can have sharp surfaces, making them capable of scratching the vehicle’s surface. When it enters the engine or moving components, its abrasive nature can also cause wear.
For this reason, car and motorcycle owners in areas affected by ash should not only wash the exterior of their vehicles, but also inspect the following components.
- Engine air filter
The air filter is one of the parts requiring the most attention. Volcanic ash can clog the filter, disrupting the airflow to the engine.
If the vehicle is still used when large amounts of ash are airborne, the particles may also pass through the filtration system. This can increase the risk of wear on engine components. The USGS states that volcanic ash can clog air filters and damage moving engine parts.
The air filter should therefore be inspected and replaced if it is excessively dirty or damaged.
- Braking system
Ash accumulating around the braking system also needs attention. Abrasive particles can enter the brake area and potentially impair its performance.
The risk increases if the vehicle is used continuously on roads covered in ash. Having the braking system inspected at a workshop is a safer option if the vehicle has been exposed to large quantities of ash.
Volcanic ash can stick to the radiator grille and obstruct the airflow needed to help release heat from the engine.
If the buildup is severe and left uncleaned, the cooling system’s capacity may be compromised. Therefore, the front of the radiator should be inspected after the vehicle has passed through or been exposed to an ash-filled environment.
- Air-conditioning condenser and cabin filter
The cabin cooling system is also not immune to risk. Ash can enter through the air vents and accumulate in the cabin filter and air-conditioning system.
If the vehicle is used in areas with heavy ash, check the cabin filter and clean or replace it if dirty. Limiting the intake of outside air can also help reduce the entry of particles into the cabin.
- Windscreen and wipers
This part is often overlooked. Yet activating the wipers while the windscreen is still covered in dry ash can scratch the glass surface.
Volcanic ash has an abrasive character. Therefore, do not use the wipers or wipe the glass while it is dry. First clean it with a sufficient amount of water before wiping the surface.
- Electrical components and alternator
Ash entering the engine bay can also stick to various electrical components. This warrants attention, particularly when the ash buildup is thick.
The USGS notes that volcanic ash can interfere with various electronic components. Under certain conditions, ash that has become damp can also become conductive, increasing the risk of electrical faults.
Therefore, if the vehicle has been exposed to thick ash, the engine bay should ideally be inspected by a technician.
The engine is one of the most important components to check after a vehicle has been exposed to large quantities of ash.
Ash that manages to pass through the air filtration system can enter the engine and act abrasively on moving components. The USGS states that even relatively small concentrations of ash inside an engine can cause damage through wear.
If the vehicle has been used for a considerable time in ash-fall conditions, the air filter and oil condition should be checked at a workshop to ensure there is no contamination or excessive wear.
Do not wipe dry ash straight away
Beyond inspecting components, how the vehicle is cleaned also matters. Dry ash should not be rubbed off immediately with a cloth, as the abrasive particles can scratch the paintwork and glass.
Avoid also using compressed air carelessly to blow away ash, as the particles can become airborne again and enter other parts of the vehicle.
For vehicles exposed to thick ash, owners should reduce their use until the cleaning process is complete. The USGS also advises against using vehicles unless absolutely necessary whilst ash-fall is still occurring.
In summary, cleaning the bodywork alone is not enough after a vehicle has been exposed to volcanic ash. The air filter, brakes, radiator, air-conditioning system, windscreen and wipers, electrical components, and engine must also be checked to prevent the ash from turning into a more serious problem, as compiled from several sources.