![The periodical cicada (Magicicada septendecim) Plate 7 from Insects, their way and means of living, R. E. Snodgrass. [1] Caption: The periodical cicada (Magicicada septendecim) A female inserting eggs with her ovipositor into the under surface of an apple twig. (Enlarged two times)](https://kars4kidsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1024px-Snodgrass_Magicicada_septendecim.jpg)
The imminent arrival of a cicada swarmaggedon along the East Coast has folks shivering in their boots- some with fear and others with excitement. But whether you love ‘em, hate ‘em or just want to eat ‘em, you’d better be prepared for them.
Every 17 years, billions of Cicadas emerge along the East Coast to molt and complete their transformation into fully grown adulta. The first 17 years of their life is lived under the ground as it undergoes many stages of change in its development.
When the temperature under the ground reaches 64 degrees Fahrenheit the Cicadas will emerge in the billions. And while they are relatively harmless, they can do serious damage to your car if you are not ready for them.
We’ve tried to help you out a bit here with some handy tips on how to prevent cicada damage to your car, from paint corrosion to clogged radiator grills.
Protect Your Paint
These highly-acidic bugs are bad news for your paint job. Bug remains sitting on your car for too long will eat away at your car’s exterior. Protect your car with temporary paint protection film, or bug blocker spray.
Keep It Clean
If the cicadas get to your car before you do, be vigilant and clean the mess quickly, even before the bug residue dries if you can. Make cleaning your car a daily chore while the invasion lasts. You can do it yourself with car wash solution or a commercial brand bug and tar remover.
Wash That Windshield
These big flying bugs can easily get splattered all over your windshield making it unsafe to drive. Keep on refilling that windshield washer fluid tank and clean the exterior of your windshield often. You want to keep that windshield sparkling clean.
Clear The Grill
Cicadas can do real damage to your car by clogging your radiator grills, causing the engine to overheat. Get a grille cover or bug screen or just stretch some netting over the front of your car. Either one will help to keep those blasted cicadas out of your radiator.
Slow Down!
Finally, if you see a swarm of cicadas up ahead, slow down. It can be difficult to see through all those swarming creatures. Keep your windows up, so they can’t get inside your car.
