Why Shouldn't You Use a Sunshade Mat on the Dashboard?
4 Answers
The reasons why you shouldn't place a sunshade mat on the dashboard include hindering heat dissipation, dust accumulation under the mat, and unguaranteed quality of the mat. Hindering Heat Dissipation: During summer, the temperature inside the car can get extremely high. The dashboard, located on the center console, is one of the hottest spots in the car. Without proper heat dissipation, some components may get damaged. Adding an extra layer of mat makes heat dissipation even more difficult. Moreover, cars already have built-in sun protection features, so the impact of direct sunlight on the interior is minimal. Dust Accumulation Under the Mat: Leaving a sunshade mat on the dashboard for extended periods can lead to dust buildup. When drivers open windows while driving, the dust may be blown into their faces or even eyes, obstructing their vision and increasing safety risks. Unguaranteed Quality of the Mat: Many sunshade mats available on the market have quality issues, especially those made of plastic materials. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause these mats to release toxic substances, posing health risks to passengers.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've found that placing sunshade mats on the dashboard is actually a major hazard, especially with significant safety implications. The dashboard houses the airbag system, which needs to deploy rapidly in the event of a collision. If a sunshade mat is placed over it, it can obstruct the airbag's proper functioning, preventing it from deploying or deploying inadequately, potentially exacerbating injuries during a crash. Additionally, during summer, when car temperatures soar, low-quality sunshade materials may melt under high heat or even pose a fire risk—just thinking about it is alarming. I recommend avoiding temporary convenience and opting for standard window sunshades instead, which are safer and equally effective at controlling interior temperature and UV exposure. Remember, safety should always come first; don't sacrifice driving security for a bit of sun protection.
As someone with in-depth knowledge of automotive interiors, I must point out several issues with placing sunshade mats on the dashboard, primarily concerning materials and electronic interference. The PVC or plastic materials used in sunshade mats can release harmful gases like formaldehyde when exposed to prolonged sunlight, posing long-term health risks. Additionally, these mats may cover critical sensors or buttons, such as air conditioning vents or warning lights, potentially impairing vehicle functionality. During vehicle maintenance, I've observed that low-quality mats tend to accumulate dust, dirtying the dashboard surface and making it difficult to clean. For dashboard protection, it's more practical to regularly wipe it with specialized cleaners or apply high-quality heat-insulating films. Prevention is key—don't overlook these small details.
As an average car owner, I've tried using dashboard mats for sun protection, but I genuinely don't recommend them. They often slip or curl up, requiring distracting adjustments while driving. What's worse, they block the speedometer or fuel gauge, forcing you to move them aside just to check readings - how troublesome! During summer heat, these mats may warp from high temperatures and leave sticky marks on the dashboard, potentially damaging the interior even more. Cleaning is also a hassle as they collect dust and are difficult to wash. I've since switched to suction cup sunshades - simple, quick, and effective, plus much more convenient. Developing good habits like keeping the car clutter-free makes for safer and more comfortable trips.
