Protecting Your Vehicle from Sun and Heat Damage
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Auto Accident Lawyer. Motor vehicles require protection from the scorching sun and heat during the summer as these harsh conditions can push them past their limits. Simple upkeep and preventative maintenance can go a long way in keeping your car on the road and out of the repair shop.
Parked Vehicles
Direct sunlight and heat beaming onto cars can cause damage to the steering wheels, dashboards, and upholstery. Parking your vehicle in shade is the most effective way of preventing sun damage to your vehicle’s paint and preventing your interior from cracking or drying. Keep your windows slightly cracked to equalize air pressure and help reduce interior temperatures to limit your risk of a burn injury while entering your vehicle. Installing cloth seat covers can also assist in protecting your fabric or leather seats in addition to keeping them cool for your backside. Consider having your windows tinted if you leave your vehicle parked in the sun for extended periods of time to block out harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. Using a windshield sunshade can also be useful in averting damage to your interior and fending off the heat.
Protecting Your Vehicle Paint
Extreme heat conditions can cause a motor vehicle’s paint to crack and fade over time. A great way of preventing this from happening is by washing your car frequently and drying it off by hand to assist in removing dust and dirt particles from causing micro surface scratches and dulling your paint. Waxing your vehicle can also provide a layer of protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Check Your Tires
Underinflated tires can affect the braking and handling performance of a vehicle. They can also overheat when they come into contact with hot pavement which can increase the odds of a blowout or even an auto accident. Regularly check your tires when it is hot outside and check your owner’s manual or inside door jamb for the recommended tire pressure.
Dashboard Care Tips
An excellent way of protecting your dashboard and upholstery in your vehicle is by using interior detailing products. Using products such as leather or vinyl protectants can make the difference in keeping your car looking brand new. Use a dampened microfiber cloth first to run across your center console and dash to lift off grime and dust particles. Bring out an interior cleaner and protectant, preferably one with a low-gloss finish, and apply a small amount on a clean microfiber cloth to rub over the center console and dash. This can help in protecting the plastic, rubber, and vinyl surfaces of your interior from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Engine Cooling System
Ensure that your engine is in good working order to prevent it from overheating. The most common cause of this issue results from lack of engine coolant which can prevent your cooling system from functioning properly. A faulty radiator, radiator fan, thermostat or water pump can also play a role in inadequate engine cooling. Frequently check your belts, hoses, and radiator cap for abnormalities or damage. Replace your engine coolant based upon your manufacturer’s recommendations or when needed to maintain the proper functionality of your cooling system.
The consequences of overheating are endless from causing damage to the cylinders and pistons to the valves, bearings and other engine components. Additionally, have your vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic to assure that your car is in good working order.
Fluid Levels
The chances of your vehicle overheating down the road increase significantly when fluid levels are below the minimum level. To prevent this from occurring, regularly check your vehicle’s motor oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific types of fluids recommended for your vehicle.
Watch YouTube Video: Protecting Your Car From Heat: Car Expert Lauren Fix. This video provides simple tips to protect your vehicle’s value during hot temperatures.
Best Sacramento Auto Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Auto Accident Lawyer. Victims are often left with severe injuries following an auto accident. If you or your loved one has been injured in an auto accident caused by the negligent actions of another, please reach out to me any time at (916) 921-6400 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.
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I belong to the Million Dollar Advocates as a member of California. Members of this national association are trial attorneys who have either obtained a verdict or negotiated a settlement worth at least $1 million and over for a client.
For a selection of my prior cases and their outcomes, go to my Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photograph Attribution: By “autowelt_2014” via Pixabay
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