What are the effects of sun exposure on cars?
2 Answers
Cars experiencing difficulty starting after prolonged sun exposure is caused by a malfunction in the carbon canister solenoid valve. Prolonged exposure can also easily lead to spontaneous combustion. With the arrival of high summer temperatures, drivers are advised not to leave items such as lighters, perfumes, electronic devices, or reading glasses in their cars. These items can ignite nearby flammable materials or combust/explode when exposed to high temperatures. Placing items like perfumes, air fresheners, or canned products in the car is risky. Perfumes, cans, and air fresheners are highly flammable and explosive, with a significant probability of detonation. Lighters should never be left in the car during summer, as the likelihood of them exploding is very high. If an explosion occurs, the resulting flames can quickly ignite the aforementioned flammable and explosive materials, potentially leading to car fires or even spontaneous combustion. Prolonged sun exposure also affects the car's gloss, accelerates tire aging, and increases the generation of harmful substances inside the vehicle.
Having driven for over a decade, I've noticed that prolonged sun exposure has a significant impact on a car's exterior. The paint tends to fade and lose its vibrancy, especially on darker-colored vehicles. Over time, the car ends up looking like a dalmatian with uneven patches—really unsightly. The tires are also prone to deformation and accelerated aging due to heat, as the rubber softens, increasing the risk of blowouts. Driving in summer feels noticeably bumpier as a result. Plastic components like headlight covers and side mirrors become brittle and prone to cracking, which can lead to water ingress and electrical shorts during rain. I recommend parking in shaded areas or using a car cover to avoid frequent polishing and maintenance. I still remember an old car of mine that was constantly parked outdoors—the roof paint eventually cracked all over, costing me a fortune to repair. That was a hard lesson learned. Prevention is always better than cure.
