With summer here, it’s time to load up the car and enjoy some of the happenings going on around you. While you are out having fun, your car is left in the hot heat of the day, many times without shade or cover. Let us shed some light on how serious sun damage can be for your vehicle. Direct sunlight is your car’s worst enemy. It not only can ruin your car’s paint but it damages its interior as well. Your friends at Johnson Brothers Ford want to share a few tips with you on how to avoid sun damage this summer.
Start by parking in the shade. By doing this simple step, you will help to keep your car’s dash, leather and steering wheel from direct sunlight which causes drying out and cracking. Keep your dashboard clean of dust, dirt and other debris and use a cleaner and/or protectant to help fading and discoloration due to the sun’s UV rays. If you can’t park in shade, purchase a window shade. This will add protection as well as help to keep your car’s temperature cooler.
Similar issues can occur to your car’s upholstery. Leather seats will age quickly when constantly exposed to the sun and high temperatures. The heat will dry out the leather’s natural oils causing it to stiffen, tear or crack. To avoid this, use a leather conditioner often. You might also consider seat covers. They also provide added protection so you won’t burn your skin on extra hot days.
Direct sunlight not only ruins your interior but is just as harmful to your exterior. Let’s look over some ways to help protect your car’s exterior. To avoid your Temple Ford‘s paint from fading, rusting, and corrosion, your car needs to have a bath. Washing your car weekly is a key component. Wash under the shade and not during the hottest part of the day. Once washed, make sure to dry thoroughly. Any left behind water will evaporate and end up leaving behind minerals that will increase oxidation causing your car to rust. Use a microfiber cloth to dry and then protect your car from rusting by waxing. By waxing you will be protecting your car’s paint from pollutants thus preventing damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.
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Image by Andrew Russell via Flickr Creative Commons
