While we may crave soaking up some vitamin C in the sun, we also know that those powerful UV rays can cause serious damage. To protect ourselves from harm, we wear sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun’s rays can be just as harmful to our cars.
Although you can’t apply sunscreen and sunglasses to our cars, there are some measures you can take to keep your ride looking sharp for years to come.
How the Sun Can Harm Your Car
Faded and Damaged Paint: UV radiation breaks down the chemical bonds in your car’s paint, leading to fading, oxidation, and even cracking.
Cracked Dashboard and Interior: The dashboard and other interior components are often made of plastic and vinyl. Prolonged exposure to intense heat can cause these materials to dry out, become brittle, and eventually crack.
Worn Upholstery: Fabric and leather upholstery can suffer from sun damage. Fabric can fade and weaken, while leather can dry out, crack, and lose its supple feel.
Reduced Tire Lifespan: The sun’s heat can also affect your tires. Extreme temperatures can cause the air pressure inside to fluctuate and accelerate wear and tear on the rubber. These air pressure fluctuations also increase the risk of a blowout. Tire pressure warning lights may not activate unless levels drop low enough to trigger the warning. Driving on tires that don’t have correct pressure can add extra strain, causing them to burst.
Maintenance Issues: Heat from the sun can affect mechanical components in your vehicle. The fluids in your car evaporate more quickly, the battery life is reduced, and there is additional strain on your A/C system, which can lead to issues. Extreme heat can also affect the performance of electrical components in your vehicle or cause your vehicle to overheat.
Protecting Your Vehicle
Park Smart: This might seem obvious, but seeking shade whenever possible is your first line of defense. Look for covered parking, garages, or even the shade of trees – just watch out for falling debris!
Invest in a Car Cover: A high-quality car cover acts like a personal shield for your vehicle. It blocks UV rays, heat, and even protects against dust, dirt, and bird droppings. Choose a breathable cover to prevent moisture buildup underneath.
Window Tinting: Professionally installed window tint can significantly reduce the amount of heat and UV radiation entering your car’s interior. Maryland requires tinted windows to have at least 35% light transmittance. You can read more about laws regarding window tint here.
Windshield Sunshade: These inexpensive and easy-to-use accessories are incredibly effective at blocking sunlight from entering your windshield, protecting your dashboard, and keeping the interior cooler. Get one that fits your windshield snugly for maximum coverage.
Interior Protectants: Regularly apply protectants specifically designed for your car’s interior surfaces. These products often contain UV inhibitors and help to moisturize and prevent cracking.
Use Covers: Installing seat and steering wheel covers protects them from damage from sun rays and keeps them cool. There’s nothing worse than getting burned from a hot interior!
Regular Washing and Waxing: A clean car reflects sunlight better. Waxing or applying a ceramic coating adds an extra layer of protection to your paint. This protects it from UV damage and oxidation, much like sunscreen protects your skin.
Condition Your Leather: If your car has leather seats, regular conditioning is crucial. Leather conditioners help to keep the material supple and prevent it from drying out and cracking due to heat exposure.
Check Fluids and Tire Pressure: Check your tire pressure and fluid levels more frequently. This can prevent your vehicle from irreparable damage and tire blowouts.
Test Your Battery: Have a technician test your battery and charging system to make sure it functions properly before the summer heat sets in.
Incorporating these simple habits into your routine can extend the life and maintain the appearance of your car. A little effort now can save you from costly repairs and keep your ride looking its best.
Even though insurance isn’t a part of protecting your vehicle from the sun, it does provide a layer of protection for your car. Maintaining coverage is important to protect you financially in the event of the unexpected. And carrying emergency roadside coverage through your policy provides peace of mind if something goes wrong while you’re away from home. If you experience a mechanical breakdown or tire blowout due to the sun, you know your insurance carrier has your back.
If you’re having trouble obtaining auto insurance, Maryland Auto can help. Click here to get a quote, or you can speak with a local agent.
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