Is It Harmful to Leave a Car Under the Sun?
3 Answers
Leaving a car exposed to direct sunlight will definitely have certain negative effects on the vehicle. Causes paint discoloration and interior aging: If the car paint is exposed to prolonged sunlight, it may fade, crack, or wrinkle after a few years. Additionally, most car interiors are made of plastic and fabric materials, which will accelerate aging under sun exposure and may release harmful gases. This not only damages the car but also poses health risks to occupants. Increases risks of tire blowouts and vehicle fires: If the tire pressure is too high combined with sun exposure, it can easily lead to tire blowouts. This risk is particularly higher during summer. Prolonged sun exposure raises interior temperatures dramatically, significantly increasing the likelihood of flammable materials causing vehicle fires.
As a veteran driver with nearly 20 years of experience, I often park my car under the sun in summer, but it causes many problems. Firstly, the car paint tends to turn yellow and dull, especially dark-colored paint which fades more easily. Secondly, the interior suffers—leather on the steering wheel and seats is prone to cracking, while plastic parts may warp and creak. After being exposed to the sun, getting into the car feels like stepping into a sauna, requiring the AC to be cranked up to the max to cool down, which inadvertently increases fuel consumption. Tires are also affected, as high temperatures accelerate rubber aging, making them more susceptible to bulging or blowouts. Having learned my lesson, I now try to park in garages or under shade whenever possible. If that's not an option, I use sunshades and even cover the car with a car cover—these methods save a lot on repair costs.
As car enthusiasts know, direct sunlight can cause multiple damages to vehicles. The molecular structure of car paint degrades under high temperatures, losing its luster within months. Plastic components and seals inside the car age and deform faster, leading to annoying rattles. Most critically, fluids like engine oil and transmission fluid deteriorate quicker under intense heat, compromising lubrication. Electronic components also suffer—for instance, overheated batteries have shortened lifespans. I recommend checking fluid levels weekly, with extra attention to wiring harnesses for cars over three years old, as aging wires are prone to short circuits. A sunshade is practical, and applying UV-protective window film also helps.
