The California heat waves can do some extreme damage to your car. You might think it is safe in a garage, but in Valencia, a garage can become an oven for your ride. State Farm, the nation’s leading insurance agency, studied this phenomenon. According to them, a car’s exterior can reach 195 degrees Fahrenheit in direct sunlight. If you think that’s something to scoff at, remember that this study was probably not done in California, where our heat waves can make a car reach its breaking point. It isn’t just your exterior reaching these mind-boggling temperatures, but it’s also your engine and interior baking in the heat. So what are some things you can do to avoid this during the next heat wave? Or, in general, the Valencia summer? First, let’s see what damage is done.
What Damage Is Done To a Car During a Heat Wave?
During a heat wave, a car can be subjected to extreme heat and sunlight, which can cause a number of problems. Some of the damage that can occur to a vehicle during a heat wave includes:
- Fading and peeling of the paint job: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the paint on your car to fade and peel, making it look old and worn.
- Warping of plastic parts: The heat and sunlight can cause plastic parts on your car, such as bumper covers and grills, to become misshapen and distorted.
- Cracking and drying of rubber parts: The heat and sunlight can cause the rubber parts on your car, such as the tires and weatherstripping, to crack and dry out, which can affect their performance and lifespan.
- Fading and cracking of the upholstery: The heat and sunlight can cause the upholstery in your car to fade and crack, which can make it look old and worn.
- Overheating of the engine: The heat can cause your car’s engine and other mechanical components to overheat, leading to expensive repairs.
By protecting your car from the heat and sunlight, you can help prevent these problems and keep your car in good condition.
How Can I Protect My Car?
There are several things you can do to protect your car’s exterior and interior from heat and sunlight:
- Use a car cover: A car cover can protect your paint job from fading and peeling due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. It can also help to keep the interior of your car cooler.
- Use window tinting: Tinting your car’s windows can help reduce the amount of heat and sunlight that enters the car. Tinting your windows can help to keep the interior cooler and protect your car’s upholstery from fading.
- Park in the shade: Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area to help protect it from the sun’s rays.
- Use a sunshade: A sunshade for your windshield can help to block out the sun’s rays and keep your car’s interior cooler.
- Keep your car clean: Regularly washing and waxing your car can help protect the paint job from fading and peeling from exposure to the sun.
- Use a UV protectant: There are several products available that can help to protect your car’s interior from UV damage. Apply these products to the dashboard, seats, and other interior surfaces to help prevent fading and cracking.
By following these tips, you can help to protect your car’s exterior and interior from the damaging effects of heat and sunlight.
How Many Times Should I Wax My Car and How Does It Help?
Waxing your car every 3-6 months is generally recommended to help protect the paint and keep it looking shiny and new. Waxing your car helps to protect it from the elements, including heat and sunlight. When the sun’s UV rays hit the paint on your vehicle, they can cause the color to fade and become dull. The wax forms a barrier on the paint that helps to reflect the UV rays, reducing their ability to cause damage. Additionally, waxing your car helps to protect it from other elements, such as water, road salt, and dirt, which can also damage the paint over time. By keeping your car waxed, you can help extend the paint’s life and keep your car looking its best.
Conclusion
Though some things are obvious, i.e., opening a window and parking in the shade, some things require regular maintenance—your coolants, your oil, and yes, even your car’s wax. As the best car wash in Valencia, Soapy Suds Car Wash is interested in one thing only. Keeping your car protected, shining, and clean for the days to come. A car wash provides more than just a luster. It provides a function. So, protect your car from this summer’s heat waves today by visiting us for a car wax and car wash, and don’t forget to crack a window.
Also Read: 10 Tips for Cleaning and Washing Your Motorhome or RV
