A dirty car is probably less aerodynamic than a clean car. You would think so, right? Dirt particles must create wind drag more than a smooth car. In fact, in 2002, an engineer published an article claiming he experienced better gas mileage after washing his car.
This claim started a war in the automotive penny-pinchers community. Why?
Golf.
No, not the Volkswagen Golf. Golf balls have a rough, dimpled surface, and these tiny pockets disrupt airflow over the ball to actually improve aerodynamics as the ball sails through the air.
Could dirt on a car do the same thing?
The Mythbusters were determined to find out. What they discovered was great news for all of you who prefer a shiny car. The clean car used about 10% less fuel than the dirty car.
Instead of pinching pennies on gas, save big money by purchasing a used car from AutoCenters St. Charles.
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