sun shining inside car When spring and summer bring warmer temperatures, you may think your car is good to go until colder conditions return. Yet, many fail to realize that extreme heat – from weather, hot roads and dry air – can negatively affect your vehicle.

How? For one, when your car is exposed outdoors, its interior air temperature can increase up to 150° F. Car parts exposed directly to sunlight may heat up to 195° F. In response to repeat exposure, your car’s finish may crack or fade and its parts may become worn out, preventing optimal performance.

Here’s what may happen to your vehicle in the heat.

Tires

When tires regularly rest on hot pavement, the rubber gradually dries out. Additionally, because your tires don’t need as much air in warmer conditions, the chance you could over-inflate them greatly increases. When these two factors combine, your tires slowly experience damage that could leave you stranded by the side of the road with a flat. In response, it’s a good idea to regularly check your tire pressure and store your car in a cool place this time of year.

Battery

Heat can cause water in your battery to evaporate, which leaves its plates exposed. Over time, your battery’s amperage may decrease, which reduces its lifespan. Also, driving for hours on the road vibrates your battery, which can also result in performance-reducing damage.

To prevent this, it’s recommended that you carry a pair of jumper cables just in case. Bring your car in for regular service as well, so a technician can top off its fluid and test its performance.

Fluids and Oil

In general, your engine is more likely to overheat during the summer months. Several factors come into play, including:

  • Heat depletes oil and coolant levels. Because engines need more lubrication in summer, fewer fluids circulating end up damaging the engine.
  • When its fluids get below recommended levels, the chances of overheating increase. As a preventative measure, regularly check the motor oil, transmission, power steering and brake fluids and top them off per your owner’s manual’s recommendations.
  • Within the engine, heat wears away hoses and may harm the radiator. As a result, your coolant may start leaking, even when you think you topped it off. In turn, the engine temperature may start to rise.
  • Along with your engine’s fluids, realize that gas evaporates quickly from a hot car. It’s generally a good ideal to keep your car in a cooler place in order to conserve gas.

Exterior

Regular exposure to intense UV rays can fade and crack the paint. Additionally, dirt and dust particles combined with heat may make micro-scratches on your car’s finish, which dull it over time. In response, regularly wash and hand dry the vehicle to remove any residue and debris. Find a spot in the shade or use a car cover to reduce UV exposure.

Interior

Repeat UV exposure may also fade and crack your car’s interior plastic parts, including your dashboard. Anything with a screen, such as a touchscreen interface or a GPS device, could get discolored. To reduce these risks, consider putting shades over all windows or finding a regular spot in the shade.

When you need regular summer maintenance, make an appointment with DaSilva’s Auto Body. To schedule an appointment or learn about our services, contact us today.