Is It Okay to Open All Car Doors for Sun Exposure?
2 Answers
Opening all car doors for sun exposure is acceptable, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can be detrimental to the vehicle. Below are the effects of prolonged sun exposure on a car: 1. Paint: Many car surfaces have thin paint layers. Extended sun exposure can accelerate paint aging and fading, causing the car body to lose its luster, affecting the vehicle's appearance, and even leading to paint cracking, bulging, or peeling, which shortens the paint's lifespan. You can cover the car with a car cover to provide sun protection, as well as dust, rain, and bird droppings protection. Alternatively, applying paint sealant or coating can effectively prevent damage from high temperatures and UV rays. 2. Tires: Tires are made of rubber. Prolonged sun exposure can cause tire deformation, cracking, and reduced lifespan. Additionally, tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes. Long-term high-speed driving or sudden braking under high temperatures may lead to localized overheating, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. 3. Human Health: Most car interiors are made of plastic materials and connected with adhesives. Under high temperatures and sun exposure, harmful gases such as formaldehyde can be released, posing health risks. Furthermore, some cars have air fresheners, and low-quality ones may also emit harmful gases when exposed to heat. Therefore, after prolonged sun exposure, it's advisable to open the car doors and windows for ventilation.
I've tried the trick of opening car doors to air out in the sun many times—it really does quickly eliminate musty or smoke odors with immediate effect. I own an old SUV myself; after rainwater accumulated in the trunk following rain, causing a strange smell, I opened all doors and let it sunbathe for two hours. The air became much fresher, and even the dampness in the seats dissipated. However, this method carries potential risks. The rubber door seals can easily harden and deform under intense sunlight, leading to worse water leakage during rain. Prolonged sun exposure can also cause interior leather to dry out, crack, or fade—I still remember when my seat cushions developed small cracks and cost me hundreds to replace. I recommend limiting sun exposure to short periods, like 20-30 minutes before closing the doors, and pairing it with a car fan for more efficient and worry-free results. Don't let your beloved car suffer unnecessarily.
