Is it okay to leave a new car exposed to the sun?
3 Answers
Exposing a new car to the sun has negative effects. Prolonged exposure can cause toxic gases like formaldehyde and benzene, released from adhesives and paints of various car components, to expand. If not ventilated promptly to allow these gases to dissipate, they can easily be inhaled while driving, posing unnecessary safety hazards. Effects of leaving a car exposed to the sun: The engine is prone to issues. Voltage instability can occur under high temperatures. The fuel system is susceptible to problems. High temperatures can alter the car's paint. The interior is likely to age faster in high heat. What to do if your car is exposed to the sun in summer: After a car is exposed to the sun in summer, the interior temperature rises. You can use the air conditioning in external circulation mode along with opening the windows to cool it down. Additionally, when parking, choose a shaded spot if possible. If shade isn't available, use a sunshade. Sunshades made of foil are foldable and easy to carry.
I just bought a new car and am particularly concerned about maintenance issues. Leaving a new car exposed to the sun can indeed cause problems, as it accelerates the aging of the paint. Sunlight can fade the surface color or cause fine cracks, especially on darker paint, which tends to show wear more easily. The interior is even more concerning—leather seats or plastic panels can harden and crack under high temperatures, and may emit strong odors that affect health. I recommend avoiding parking in direct sunlight for extended periods whenever possible; it's best to find a shaded spot or a covered parking space. In summer, you can use a sunshade on the windshield—it's simple yet effective. Regular car washing and waxing can also slow down damage and extend the car's lifespan. Avoid leaving explosive items like perfume bottles in the car to prevent accidents. Developing good habits makes car maintenance easier and more cost-effective.
I always pay close attention to comfort and safety when driving, and exposing a new car to direct sunlight is definitely not a good idea. The soaring temperature inside the car can make it unbearably hot when you get in, affecting your driving condition and even increasing the risk of fatigue driving. I've witnessed tragedies where children or pets were left in cars—high temperatures can easily lead to heatstroke. The interior materials may release harmful gases when heated, which is detrimental to health. Overheated dashboard electronics might malfunction, compromising driving safety. I recommend using window sunshades for heat insulation or leaving a small window gap for ventilation when parked. Turning on the air conditioning for a few minutes before getting in can make the ride safer and healthier. Prolonged exposure to sunlight may also cause premature tire aging, increasing the frequency of tire replacements.
