What are the most common damages to a car in summer heat and what to do to prevent them
There are numerous aspects to pay attention to in order to preserve the health of your vehicle in the summertime. Here are tips for solving and preventing problems.
During the summer season, many drivers are inclined to overlook the potential damage that heat and sun exposure can cause to their cars, focusing instead on winter protection. But summer also presents significant vehicle challenges. High daytime temperatures, coupled with the sharp drop at night, can adversely affect the performance and integrity of the car.
In some makes of car, the integration of solar collectors enables particularly efficient operation, where the fans continue to run even when the engine is off. This system facilitates the intake of outside air, helping to reduce internal overheating. But let’s take a closer look:
- Most common damages to a car in summer due to high heat, what are they
- How to prevent the most common damages to a car in summer for the great heat
Most common damages to a car in summer for extreme heat, what are they
In summer, road temperatures can reach extremely high levels, and in case tires are not properly inflated, there is an increased risk of damage due to contact with the hot road surface. The temperature difference between day and night can affect tire pressure, so it is important to pay special attention to their proper pressurization during this season.
Whenever possible, park your car in a shady place protected from direct sunlight, such as under a tree, in a garage, or on a shady side of the road. This simple measure can make a difference in the long run and help protect the car from overheating caused by the sun’s rays, without requiring significant investment of time or money.
During the summer, car parts consisting mainly of rubber are prone to damage due to temperature changes. Tires tend to expand when exposed to heat and contract when they cool, and this cycle of expansion and contraction can lead to engine belts breaking. If you hear a squealing noise coming from the engine, it is advisable to take the car to the shop for inspection, as this could be a sign of belt damage.
Special attention should be paid to car fluids during the summer months, as high temperatures can cause them to evaporate. It is essential to maintain proper levels of engine fluid, windshield washer fluid, engine coolant, brake fluid and engine oil.
When parked in an area exposed to sunlight, the car’s interior can reach high temperatures, reaching as high as 60 degrees. Avoid turning on the air conditioning system to full power abruptly, as this may cause thermal shock between the inside and outside of the windshield, increasing the risk of damage. In order to prevent windshield damage, you can park the car in the shade, use a sunshade to protect the glass, and pay attention to potholes in the road.
For those who have to park the car outdoors most of the time and subject it to direct exposure to the sun, it may be a solution to invest in tinted glass. These can protect the interior of the car from the sun’s harmful rays without compromising visibility. Applying a layer of wax to the car’s paint is a relatively inexpensive alternative to protect it from the fading effect of direct sunlight.
How to prevent the most common damage to a car in the summer heat.
To prevent the most common damage caused by high summer heat to your car, it is essential to take these precautions. First, periodic checks of engine coolant and windshield washer fluid levels should be made. In intense heat, the vehicle will require an adequate amount of coolant to avoid the risk of engine overheating.
It is essential to have the car’s cooling system regularly undergo scheduled maintenance, including inspections of the radiator, fans and thermostat, to ensure proper operation even during the hottest days.
It is also necessary to ensure that tires are in good condition and with the correct pressure. During the summer, tire pressure can rise due to heat, so regular checks are essential to avoid damage or blowouts. Using a sunshade to protect the passenger compartment from direct exposure to sunlight is a recommended measure you can cover the steering wheel and seats to prevent them from overheating and becoming scorching to the touch.
Regarding engine maintenance, you should make sure that the oil is at the correct level and has been changed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a high-quality oil will help keep the engine properly lubricated and prevent heat damage.
Checking that the air conditioning system is working properly is another essential precaution, and repairs should be made if necessary. An efficient air conditioning system is crucial to maintaining a comfortable interior environment and preventing damage to electronic components due to excessive heat.
To protect the car’s paint from constant exposure to the sun, it is advisable to use appropriate covers or park the car in shaded areas. This measure will prevent overheating and premature deterioration of the paint.
Finally, avoid overfilling the fuel tank, as high temperatures can cause the fuel to expand and result in possible leaks. When leaving the car parked, it is essential to take care not to leave heat-sensitive objects inside the passenger compartment, such as electronic devices, sunscreen, spray cans, etc., as excessive heat could damage them irreparably.