Did you know that your car can be damaged by the sun? The sun’s heat can cause the paint to fade and crack, and the UV rays can damage your car’s interior. Not to mention, the sun can make your car incredibly hot, making it uncomfortable to drive in.
That’s why it’s so important to take some precautions to protect your car from the sun during the summer. Here are a few essential tips:
Park in the Shade Whenever Possible
If you’re going to be parked for a long period, try to find a spot in the shade. This will help keep your car cooler and prevent the interior from heating up too much. You can also use a sunshade to help deflect the sun’s rays. This is especially important if you have leather seats, as the sun can cause them to crack and fade.
You can also use a car cover to protect your vehicle from the sun. This is an excellent option if you’re going to be parked for an extended period, such as overnight. Also, if you have a garage, make sure to use it as much as possible to keep your car out of the sun.
Wash and Wax Your Car Regularly
One of the best ways to protect your car from the sun is to wash and wax it regularly. This will create a barrier between the paint and the sun’s UV rays, which can fade and damage the paint over time. You can also get a ceramic car coating, which will provide an even higher level of protection. This is a good option if you live in an area with high temperatures and intense sun exposure.
Make sure to clean the inside of your car as well, since the sun can cause cracking and fading on dashboards and upholstery. Use a UV-resistant spray or cover these surfaces with a towel when you’re parked to protect them from damage.
Install Tinted Windows
You can protect your car’s interior from the sun by installing tinted windows. This will help keep the cabin cooler and prevent the upholstery from fading. You’ll also be able to see better when driving since the tint will reduce the glare of the sun.
Note: be sure to check your state’s laws regarding window tinting before having it done, as there are typically restrictions on the amount of tint that you can legally have.
Use a Windshield Sunshade
You can find windshield sunshades for just a few dollars, and they’re worth every penny. A sunshade will help keep the interior of your car cooler, and it will also protect the dashboard and other parts of the interior from fading or cracking.
Also, make sure to close the windows and sunroof when you park to help keep the heat out. This is especially important if you’re going to be parked in the sun for a long period.
Check Your Car for Heat-Related Issues
If you notice that your car is overheating, or if the A/C isn’t blowing as cold as it should, have it checked by a mechanic. These could be signs of a bigger problem, such as a coolant leak, and they should be addressed as soon as possible.
You should also keep an eye on the tires, as the sun can cause the air pressure to rise. This can lead to a blowout, so check the pressure regularly and let out some air if necessary.
Make Sure Your Car is in Good Condition
It’s important to have your car regularly serviced to make sure that everything is in good working order. This is especially true during the summer when the heat can put additional strain on the engine and other parts of the vehicle.
You should also have the battery tested to make sure that it’s in good condition. The heat can cause the battery to fail, so it’s a good idea to get it checked before going on a long road trip.
Bonus Tip
Lastly, ensure you have plenty of water when driving in hot weather. If your car overheats, pull over and turn off the engine until it cools down. And, if you’re stranded on the side of the road, stay in your car and wait for help to arrive.
Hopefully, these tips will help you keep your car in good condition during the summer. Remember to take care of your vehicle, and it will take care of you. So, don’t neglect maintenance, and be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your car from the sun.