Global warming affects how hot heat waves get, and just as excessive exposure to the sun can be dangerous for human skin, sun rays can also damage motor vehicles. Luckily, we [humans] can apply sunscreen to protect our skin, but what about your car?
Leaving a vehicle parked in direct sunlight for long periods increases the risk of damage to its interior and exterior. Sun damage can result in your car’s paint peeling off or fading because ultraviolet (UV) rays break down the molecules in the car paint, making it look dull. Cracks begin to form on the dashboard, damage to the upholstering also occurs, spiralling the car into premature ageing.
In addition, sun exposure can also result in insufficient water levels in the engine bay due to evaporation. The heat could also cause engine fluids to evaporate. High temperatures in the fuel tank create air bubbles, possibly resulting in your tank cracking after a while because of too much pressure.
Here are some tips to protect your vehicle from sun damage:
Engine Protection
- Because heat causes fluids to evaporate, regularly check motor oil, transmission fluid and brake fluid levels.
- Ensure that your car services are up to date. Change belts and fluids as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
Exterior Protection
- Besides the most obvious one of avoiding direct sunlight and parking in the shade, you can protect the car by washing your car regularly. Regular washing keeps your car clean from dust particles, boosting the health of your vehicle and delaying premature ageing.
- Wax your vehicle for extra layers that can protect it from the sun’s strong UV rays. Wax ensures that your vehicle reflects UV rays instead of absorbing them.
- Monitor tyre pressure levels often when it is hot and make sure that your tyres are adequately inflated because hot tar or pavements cause tyres to lose air pressure and become underinflated. Underinflated tyres use more surface area and add to the heat, while cars parked under the sunlight for a long time are at the risk of overinflation.
Interior Protection
- Use shades on your windows to avoid direct sunlight. Window shades prevent the sun rays from entering the interior of your car. They also reflect the UV rays, thus protecting plastic components inside the vehicle.
- Install seat covers. Seat covers can protect leather and fabric upholstery.
- Protect leather seats with a conditioner. A leather conditioner can help prevent cracks and tears from sunlight and heat.
- Wipe the dashboard with a low-gloss product often.
Article credit : MotorHappy
