The summer sun is no joke. Depending on where you live, the summer heat can reach overwhelming temperatures during the summertime. And, just like you, your car needs some protection to make it through those rough few months.
“Why?” you might ask.
Think of your car’s outer layer as its skin. Just like your own skin in direct exposure to the sun, your car can become damaged over time. Paint begins to fade and crack, oxidation occurs, resulting in rust, and the overall appearance of the vehicle declines.
During the summer, when you spend extended periods of time in the sun, you are probably using sunscreen to help protect yourself. If you don’t, you’re at a higher risk for sunburn, sun poisoning, and, the worst of all, skin cancer! Now, although we are not recommending you lather your SUV up with Sun Bum SPF50 while it waits for you at the beach parking lot, there are a few recommendations we can make to help your car steer clear of extended sun exposure.
1. Sun shields are your car’s best friend
If you don’t already have one, do yourself a favor and buy a sun shield for your car. You can simply go into Google or Amazon or Advanced Auto Parts, type in the make and model of your vehicle, and add the words “sun shield” on the end of the search term. There are specific sun shields made for your specific vehicle that will perfectly fit the front windshield. Although it may seem tacky to have a shiny aluminum-colored sun shield displayed on your parked car, it’s the absolute best way to protect your interior.
The sun’s UV rays will damage basically every single material inside of your car: plastic buttons, knobs, leather, faux leather, etc. After a few years of direct sun exposure, your car’s interior will begin cracking, peeling, and breaking down. Once you go to resell your car and its value has plummeted by thousands, you’ll wish you had used a sun visor.
2. Find some shade
Wherever you go, wherever you park, look around. Don’t just pick the closest spot to the building. See if there are any trees or shaded areas that offer a shady parking spot for your vehicle. By parking in a shade-covered spot, you are protecting your car from the sun’s UV rays and the overwhelming heat. It’s such an easy way to keep your car newer for longer.
3. Keep your car clean and washed
Removing dirt and dust from your car by washing it during the summer will prolong its appearance. Direct sunlight on a dirty car actually bakes in the dust and dirt particles, damaging the paint and devaluing your vehicle. The easiest way to keep this from happening is to wash it at least once a week.
The sun can do some serious damage!
Take these few precautions and start practicing summertime car protection! You’ll thank us down the line when your vehicle is worth more than its competitors.