Protect your car from heat damage: Take these precautions in extreme temperatures
Summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to pack the car full of sunscreen and towels and head to the beach for a family vacation.
Whether you are driving for 15 minutes or 15 hours, your car is going to be enduring the extreme heat just the same as you are. While it is important for you to take care of your body in the heat, your car also needs protection to avoid any vehicular damage.
Not only can the sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the exterior of your car, but the interior is just as susceptible to damage. Here are the top ten ways to protect your car from the heat.
How to protect your car from the heat:
Park in the shade
The easiest way to help your car avoid sunlight is by parking it in a cool, shady spot. Avoiding direct sunlight helps keep your dash from drying and cracking, according to State Farm. If safe enough, crack your window to help lower the interior temperature.
Maintain tire pressure
Hot pavement and low tire pressure can result in a blown-out tire. Good tires can lose one pound of air a month, so it is important to check tire pressure frequently when in the heat.
Protect yourself from the heat: 4 experts tips to keep you cool
Check the cooling system
To help prevent your engine from overheating, make sure the functions are working properly. Having belts checked and antifreeze and coolant drained can help prevent overheating, as well as changing the belts and fluids on a regular basis, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Check other car fluids
If your car’s fluid levels are below the recommended levels, there is a greater chance of overheating. Regularly check motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid to ensure you are at the recommended levels your vehicle needs.
Check vehicle battery
High temperatures mixed with high use of air conditioning can cause the car battery to wear and fail quicker. Having the vehicle battery checked by a professional mechanic is a great way to make sure it is functioning correctly.
Wax your car
Heat and sun can fade and even crack car paint, so putting a layer of wax on your car to protect it from the sun’s UV rays is a great way to help your car’s exterior be protected.
Invest in a windshield sun protector
Car visors are another great and easy way to help your car’s interior be protected from sun damage. Additionally, by blocking the sun out of your car you are helping lower the inner air temperature.
Apply seat covers
Installing seat covers helps protect seat fabric from heat damage, but also helps keep them cooler.
Apply leather conditioner on seats
If you have leather seats in your vehicle, a leather conditioner can also help prevent cracks and tears that are typically made by heat.
Drive in the cooler parts of the day
Driving in the mornings or evenings when the temperature is not as hot can help prevent any heat-related issues and is better for your car if you can avoid extreme temperatures, according to Mercury Insurance.
Map: Heat warnings and watches near you
What is the heat index near you today? See map of real-feel temperatures across the US.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to protect your car from the heat: 10 steps to take now
