People are often concerned about exposure to UV radiation as it can cause serious skin damage and other health issues. But did you know that it can also damage your car? Prolonged exposure to UV rays cannot just ruin your vehicle’s paint, but other exterior and interior car parts too.
For one, prolonged exposure to the sun results in high temperatures inside the vehicle. This can impact tire pressure and damage your airbags. The leather covers in your seats can also get damaged by continued sun and heat exposure.
Moreover, your car’s electronic components are also in danger if they’re exposed to unfiltered sun rays for a long time. These include those on your car’s floor and the dashboard, your navigation system, and the radio. And, of course, your dashboard coloring and entire car paint may fade too. Continue reading to learn how you can protect your vehicle from prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays.
1. Always park in a shade
The easiest way to protect your vehicle from the harmful UV rays is to avoid parking on lots that aren’t shaded. You can expect no serious problem will come to your car if the sun rays aren’t directly hitting it. Many people don’t consider finding a shaded parking area due to laziness. The thing is, most shaded parking lots will require drivers to pay. However, if you’re considering the long term, this is a cheaper option compared to the cost of the damage caused by prolonged UV radiation exposure.
2. Wash your car more often
Regular washing is among the most preferred methods by car owners to prevent sun damage. You can protect your vehicle’s exterior by washing it with car wash detergent or soap. If this is your first time washing and waxing a car, it’s best to look into online guides to prevent unnecessary damage. If your vehicle is exposed to UV rays all day, wash it twice a week. Also, avoid using dishwashing soap as they have high acidic nature that can ruin the shine of your car’s exterior.
3. Install ceramic coating or PPF
Ceramic coating is another smart way to protect your vehicle from direct UV rays exposure. Applying ceramic coating cannot only reduce the risk of damage to your car’s paint but also makes the surface easier to care for and clean. Only go to a reliable provider of undercoating services to ensure the prep work and coating are done currently.
Aside from ceramic coating, you can consider installing a paint protection film (PPF) instead. PPF isn’t only useful for UV radiation, but it can also protect your car from damage caused by winter sand, road debris, and rocks. When applied correctly, ceramic coating can last from two to five years, and PPF can last five to ten years. Nonetheless, ceramic coatings are considered more effective for protecting a car from sun exposure.
4. Invest in good car covers
Another easy way to protect your vehicle from the sun is to use a car cover. Don’t go cheap on this and look for the best quality cover you can find. Some of the best features include UV protection, dustproof, windproof, waterproof, scratch-resistant, and breathable. You can find all-weather car covers on local auto parts shops and online stores.
However, avoid using the car cover for more than seven days as the moisture can damage the car paint. At the same time, don’t cover the car while it’s wet as it can cause germs, bacteria, and molds to build in. Dry up your vehicle before covering it.
5. Don’t forget your interior
UV radiation cannot only harm your car’s exterior but also the interior. The basic thing you can do is use sun protectors for the windows to reduce the amount of heat coming inside. You can also install seat covers to make the leather or fabric last longer as the UV rays won’t directly hit the seats.
Besides using covers, you can also add a layer of protection by using certain cleaners. Look for chemical interior cleaners with sunlight protection to put some barriers on the surfaces in your vehicle. You can also open the windows a bit to minimize the heat staying inside.
Excessive sun exposure can damage your vehicle’s interior and exterior, which costs you money and annoyance and discomfort when driving. By following our tips here, you can protect your precious investment from getting damaged and prolong its lifespan as well. If you’re not familiar with doing these tasks, don’t think twice to seek the help of a professional car mechanic or auto shop.