What Are the Effects of a Car Being Exposed to Direct Sunlight Daily?
2 Answers
When a car is exposed to direct sunlight daily, it accelerates the aging of the tires, causing deformation and reducing their lifespan. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sunlight speeds up the aging and fading of the car's paint, affecting its durability. The interior components, when exposed to sunlight for extended periods, can also experience accelerated plastic aging and deformation, shortening their usable life. Car tires are made of rubber, and prolonged exposure to sunlight inevitably accelerates their aging and cracking. Moreover, under intense sunlight, the risk of tire blowouts increases. Therefore, during summer, it is advisable to park the car in shaded areas to avoid direct sunlight. It is also important to note that after exposure to sunlight, the tires should not be immediately washed with cold water. Instead, wait until the car has cooled down in a shaded area before cleaning. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the car's paint to lose its shine, and older cars may even experience paint cracking. Compared to tires and paint, the interior suffers the most severe effects from prolonged sun exposure. Different parts of the car's interior are made from various materials. For instance, the steering wheel and cabin interiors often use PP materials, while seats and linings commonly utilize PVC and PU materials. Solar radiation and high temperatures accelerate the aging and degradation of these materials. Since these materials are industrial-grade, prolonged sun exposure can produce pungent odors and may even pose health risks to humans.
I found that cars being exposed to intense sunlight every day can cause quite a few issues, especially to the exterior and interior. The paint will gradually fade and become brittle, with darker-colored cars showing signs of aging more easily. The rubber on tires deteriorates faster, leading to cracks and reduced traction. The interior also suffers: plastic dashboards and leather seats may crack or warp, and over time, they can even irritate the skin. High temperatures cause the battery's electrolyte to evaporate, shortening its lifespan and leading to costly repairs. Additionally, stepping into the car feels like entering a sauna—it's so hot it can make you dizzy, and sometimes there's a pungent smell from chemicals released by the materials, which isn’t good for your health. I recommend using sunshades or parking in the shade, and regular interior cleaning can help mitigate these effects. If this continues long-term, the car’s value will depreciate faster, repair costs will rise, and both safety and comfort will be compromised, so it’s best to take preventive measures early.