UV rays from the sun can result in extreme damage to both the interiors and exteriors of your car. Exposing to your car to direct sunlight can oxidize its paint, leaving your car’s finish looking cracked and faded, rather than polished and pristine. It can also damage the internal components of your vehicle, as well as its interior surfaces. Here are some proven tips to prevent this from happening to your car.
Be smart about where you park
Always park your car in a cool, shaded area — preferably a garage, roofed parking, or a parking lot. If your garage has windows where sunlight can peek through, make sure to get them tinted with special UV film which you can find at any window film company. This will keep your car protected even if sunlight does reach it while it sits inside your garage. If you don’t have a garage or parking lot to park your car in, invest in a fabric car cover to place on top of it. You can also opt to park it underneath a tree or near a tall building that offers shade.
Purchase a windshield sunshade
Protect the inside of your car by covering up the windows using a windshield sunshade. These foldable panels have the ability to lower the temperature in your car and protect its interiors from harmful UV rays which can damage upholstery and fade leather surfaces.
Have your tire pressure often checked
If your tires aren’t sufficiently inflated, and you leave your car parked on a hot surface for an extended period, there’s an increased risk of your tires blowing out while you’re driving. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure regularly — especially when it’s particularly scorching outside — and get your tires pumped as soon as you find out that it’s underinflated.
Get your car washed regularly
Having your car washed regularly lessens the risk of paint oxidization. This is especially true if you tend to park your car outdoors for an extended period. Get a more thorough cleanse by taking it to a professional car wash. This is also where you can get it professionally waxed. A protective wax that offers a durable layer of protection against scratches and UV rays will be applied to your vehicle. It can also keep the natural oils of your car’s exterior paint safe. It’s recommended that you get your car washed at least once every other week if you tend to keep it in a shaded area, and every week if you don’t. Meanwhile, your car should get waxed at least once a month.
Lift your windshield wipers up
Your windshield can heat up very quickly. If you leave your windshield wipers on your windshield, it will deteriorate at a quicker rate due to the heat generated by the windshield. Always remember to lift your windshield wipers up once you’ve parked your vehicle.
Hand dry your car’s exterior
There are certain chemicals found in water that, when fused with direct sunlight, can severely damage your car’s paint finish. You can make sure this doesn’t happen by thoroughly hand drying your car’s exterior with a soft microfiber or cotton rag after getting it washed or when it gets wet.
Maintain the quality of your car’s exteriors and interiors by protecting it from the harmful UV rays of the sun. You can effectively keep it safe with these handy tips.
