With summer just around the corner, you’re probably looking forward to getting out and enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. However, that beautiful summer sun can cause some serious damage to your car inside and out. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your car from sun damage so that your summer isn’t a bummer.
1. Clean Your Car
Not only does cleaning your car make it look better, but it can also go a long way in protecting the vehicle from sun damage. Dirt and dust particles can cause tiny cracks in your car’s paint, dulling the finish. When the finish dulls, it’s easier for the paint to crack and fade from sunlight. You can protect your car’s finish even further by adding a layer of wax, which serves as sunscreen for your vehicle. Don’t forget to clean the windshield. Streaks and smears can amplify the sun’s glare, obstructing your vision.
When you clean the inside of your car, you’ll want to use a cleaner that’s suitable for your upholstery. If you have vinyl seating surfaces in your car, you don’t want to use a cleaner containing alcohol because it can dry out the vinyl and wear it out faster. A rag and soapy water should do the trick for cleaning your vinyl seats. For leather seating surfaces, using a leather conditioner can prevent cracks and tears. Vacuuming cloth seating surfaces and carpet will prevent the sun from baking in any debris.
2. Check Your Tires
Tires tend to lose around 1 pound of air pressure every month, and underinflated tires combined with hot pavement are a dangerous mix. Checking your tire pressure regularly can prevent blowouts and save you money by improving your car’s fuel efficiency. If you notice excessive wear and tear on your tires, you should replace them.
3. Park In the Shade
Not only can direct sunlight damage your car’s paint, but it can also cause cracks in the dash. Your upholstery suffers from direct sunlight too. Cloth upholstery fades, and leather upholstery cracks. Parking in the shade is an easy way to protect your car from the summer sun. Just make sure to wash off any bird droppings or tree sap that gets on your car. These contaminants can damage the paint. You might consider leaving your windows open a crack to let hot air escape.
4. Invest In Coverage
Sometimes you can’t find a shady place to park when you’re at work or running errands. That’s when sunshades and seat covers come in handy. Putting a sunshade on your windshield will block the sun’s harmful rays from reaching your dash. A reflective sunshade can even direct the sun’s rays away from your vehicle, which will keep the cabin cooler. Seat covers can provide extra protection. They’re also more comfortable to sit on than sunbaked leather or vinyl.
Hopefully, you’ll find these tips to be helpful. By taking time to clean your car and keeping it out of the sun, you’ll be able to enjoy the ride for years to come. Be sure to check out Discovery Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM for more helpful advice and service to protect your vehicle and extend its life!
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