When it comes to red sticky viscous goo covering car undercarriage, a concerning discovery has surfaced for owners of the 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid after a driver found a sticky red substance coating the car's undercarriage. The driver, whose daughter owns the vehicle, noted that the doors started sticking when opened, leading them to investigate further. They uncovered a viscous red goo on the bottom door weatherstripping and extensive areas under the car, particularly around the rocker panels. This peculiar substance appears to be water-soluble and resembles dried jelly or jam.
Understanding Red Sticky Viscous Goo Covering Car Undercarriage
Upon closer inspection, the red goo was found exclusively on the undercarriage, leaving no trace on the exterior side panels. The driver scraped some off and described it as a sticky, viscous material, noting that it had drip patterns suggesting it may have been liquid when first deposited. Intrigued by its properties, the observer even tasted a small amount, reporting no strong flavor but an odd sensation on their tongue. They remarked, "It looks like it may have been more liquid when it first got on the car, because there are drip/run patterns." Originally reported by r/whatisit.
Compounding the mystery, the driver found no evidence of the goo on their driveway, leading them to conclude it wasn't seeping from the vehicle. Given that the car's coolant is blue, they dismissed the idea that the substance could be coolant or transmission fluid. With no warning lights or dashboard indicators signaling an issue, the investigation turned toward a recent drive-through car wash visit.
Car Wash Visit Sparks Theories
About two weeks prior to the goo's discovery, the Honda CR-V Hybrid underwent a car wash. The driver speculated that the car wash might have used an underbody spray or chemical that malfunctioned, inadvertently coating the underside of the vehicle. The driver reached out to the car wash for clarification on their procedures and whether any chemicals could have caused the issue. They received a prompt response stating, "Our undercarriage wash just sprays water underneath the car; we don't have any chemicals that spray under the car."
This response left the driver puzzled, as they continued to seek answers on whether car washes typically use any red or pink chemicals that could dry into sticky goo. Theories about the substance range from a malfunctioning undercarriage spray to a product used during the wash that may have inadvertently splattered onto the vehicle. However, definitive answers remain elusive.
Possible Solutions and Removal Advice
As the goo remains a nuisance, attempts to clean it have begun. The driver managed to clean the door gaskets using a rag and warm water, but they recognized that the underside likely requires a more thorough approach. They contemplated using a hot-water pressure wash to remove the substance effectively. Given its water-soluble nature, they also wondered if rain might help wash it off over time, though they expressed a preference for a proper removal method to avoid potential damage.
Online discussions have emerged, with fellow car enthusiasts and Honda owners weighing in on the situation. Some speculated that it could be a residual product from the car wash or a rare instance of factory error, while others offered advice on cleaning methods. The community's engagement highlights the shared concern among vehicle owners regarding unusual substances that could affect their cars.
Seeking Answers from Experts
As the mystery surrounding the red sticky goo continues, the driver has reached out to automotive experts for insights. Their goal is to determine the origin of the substance and identify effective removal strategies to prevent further complications. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and thorough inspections, especially after service visits.
While the driver remains hopeful for clarification and a solution, they encourage other Honda CR-V Hybrid owners to be vigilant about similar occurrences. This situation emphasizes the need for awareness regarding potential chemical residues that may affect vehicle performance. As more drivers share their experiences, the automotive community may be able to shed light on this peculiar phenomenon.
Originally reported by r/whatisit. View original.