Can the BMW Trunk Be Exposed to Sunlight?
3 Answers
BMW trunks should not be exposed to sunlight. Below are the specific reasons why BMW trunks cannot be exposed to sunlight: Sun exposure leads to formaldehyde release: Many interior components of BMWs are plastic products bonded with adhesives. These materials can undergo qualitative changes when exposed to sunlight, releasing substances similar to formaldehyde. The longer the exposure to sunlight, the more of these harmful substances are released, posing risks to human health. Sun exposure causes paint damage: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the car's paint, leading to cracking, bubbling, or even peeling, which affects the vehicle's appearance. Applying paint sealant, ceramic coating, or installing reflective thermal insulation film on windows can effectively protect the car from damage caused by high temperatures and UV rays.
As a BMW owner, I've personally experienced the issue of the trunk being exposed to sunlight. During summer, if I park the car under the sun for a few hours, opening the trunk feels like stepping into a sauna—the plastic parts are so hot they're painful to touch. Once, I left a toolbox inside, and the lid warped so much it wouldn't close properly. While BMW's trunk materials are high-quality, prolonged UV exposure can cause leather to crack, plastics to degrade, and even make wire insulation brittle. I've also noticed that long-term sun exposure may lead to odor buildup, affecting cabin air quality. Now, I make it a habit to park in shade or a garage whenever possible. If that's not an option, I use a reflective sunshade to cover the trunk area. Regularly clearing out clutter also helps reduce heat retention. Protecting my car's overall condition is what matters most.
From a maintenance perspective, I recommend not leaving the trunk exposed to sunlight for extended periods. High temperatures can accelerate the deterioration of interior materials—for example, BMW's common synthetic leather may harden and wrinkle, while rubber seals can lose elasticity, leading to water leakage issues. It also affects the lifespan of electronic components, such as trunk lights or sensors, which may malfunction due to overheating. If the car is parked in direct sunlight, I suggest slightly opening the windows for ventilation or using a heat-insulating mat to cover the trunk. During routine inspections, pay attention to sealing integrity to prevent dust buildup from blocking ventilation holes. These small habits can extend the vehicle's service life and reduce repair costs. Developing regular sun protection measures is definitely worthwhile.
