Turtle Wax commissioned a survey of 2,000 actively dating Americans that found car cleanliness influences romantic prospects. Seventy-three percent of respondents said the way people care for their cars mirrors how they care for themselves. Sixty-seven percent said a messy vehicle signals a messy personal life, while 65% viewed a clean car as a sign of an orderly life.
Twenty-five percent of survey respondents reported ending a date early because the driver's car was dirty. Reported items found in cars included a box with a dead cat, live roaches, maggots, bottles of urine, moldy milk, and used condoms.
Beyond dating, car cleanliness affects vehicle performance and longevity. A dirty exterior can reduce fuel economy by up to 10% when cleaned. Tree sap, bird droppings, and road salt damage exterior finishes and promote rust if left uncleaned. Spilled food or drinks left in the cabin can lead to mold growth. Dead animals in vehicles carry salmonella, hantavirus, and E. coli. Grime on windows reduces visibility and creates safety risks.