Will a Car Get Damaged from Prolonged Sun Exposure in Summer?
3 Answers
Prolonged sun exposure in summer won't directly damage a car, but it can cause many adverse effects. Here are extended details: 1. Interior aging: High-temperature exposure causes plastic dashboards and leather seats to release large amounts of harmful gases like formaldehyde, resulting in pungent odors inside the vehicle. 2. Paint fading and aging: Although car paint is highly heat-resistant, intense UV radiation can cause paint to deteriorate, similar to how many white cars gradually turn yellowish over time. 3. Weatherstrip degradation: Rubber seals harden and lose elasticity after prolonged sun exposure, potentially cracking and compromising the car's sealing performance, reducing waterproofing and sound insulation. 4. Tire blowouts: As rubber products, tires are vulnerable when road temperatures (much hotter than air) bake them for extended periods, leading to cracks and bulges that significantly shorten tire lifespan. 5. Increased hazards: Items like lighters, perfumes, or pressurized cans left inside may explode when heated by sunlight, endangering lives and property.
Every time I park my car in the summer without paying attention to sun exposure, it really gets damaged easily. Over time, the interior like the seats and the plastic or leather on the dashboard will fade and crack, which is frustrating to see when driving. The air conditioning system is also affected, taking a long time to cool down when started, and consuming more fuel. Tires age faster under high temperatures, and unstable tire pressure may increase the risk of a blowout. Electronic components like the battery will have a shorter lifespan, and circuit problems become harder to repair. Although they won't break down immediately, the cumulative damage is annoying. I've gotten used to parking in the shade or using a car cover. Simple measures like these can save a lot on repair costs.
I think the main damage to a car from summer sun exposure is on the exterior and materials. The paint is prone to oxidation and fading, making it look dull, while interior plastics become brittle and crack easily, and interior padding is also prone to deformation. High temperatures also accelerate the aging of tire rubber, significantly increasing the risk of blowouts. Electronic components like sensors or wiring perform poorly in hot environments, and battery charge-discharge efficiency drops. UV rays are the primary culprit, so I often use windshield sunshades or apply tinting to protect the materials and extend their lifespan. There won't be sudden breakdowns overall, but more frequent maintenance is advisable.
