Our cars are one of our most expensive purchases, so we want them to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, weather extremes can cause serious damage to our prized possessions, sometimes even damaging them beyond repair. The good news is that there are ways to protect your car from even the worst weather imaginable. No matter where you live or what kinds of weather you get regularly, your car’s life expectancy can be dramatically extended by taking some simple precautions. As well as regular maintenance, here are some of the best ways to keep your car safe from extreme weather conditions.
Extreme Heat
If you live somewhere that experiences sudden and extreme heat spells, you probably already know about the damage it can cause to your vehicle. Fortunately, there are ways that you can protect your car from heat. Make sure that you:
- Park In The Shade: This is the best way to protect your car from extreme heatwaves. When it gets too hot, it can cause damage to your chassis and your paintwork and can even make your car unsafe to drive. Ensure that you can park in the shade, but be aware that parking beneath trees can result in damage caused by birds or tree sap.
- Sunshades: If parking in the shade isn’t an option, then a windshield sunshade can be very effective at protecting your car’s interior. Those interiors will benefit from lower temperatures, reducing the risk of melted plastic or warped seating. These are now very inexpensive must-haves for anybody that lives in hot areas.
Remember always to check that the cooling system in your car is always working correctly. Change your coolant regularly, and you’ll be able to keep your car a lot cooler no matter how hot it gets.
Extreme Rain
Most people don’t think about the damage that rain can do to a car, but it can be a lot more harmful than you might think. The rain itself isn’t always a problem, but what it carries with it can be. Oil, dirt, acids, sand, and salt can all be carried by rainwater, and when the rain evaporates, those materials remain on your paintwork. That leads to what is commonly referred to as water spots, which will dramatically reduce your car’s value. You should always:
- Seal Your Car: If rainwater gets inside your car, then the potential for damage is very high. Check the rubber lining on your sunroof, doors, and windows and that they are sealed when they are closed. If you spot any issues, make sure that you repair them as quickly as possible.
- Wash/Wax: One of the most proactive ways to keep your car safe from extreme rain is to wash and wax it. This will provide a protective seal on your paintwork, and that barrier will make it much easier to wash off the harmful elements that are left behind when rain evaporates. It’s a good idea to use a professional car washing mitt so that you reduce the risk of scratching your car when you’re trying to protect it.
Large Hail
Hail is a nightmare for cars, and some states experience some very intense hail seasons. Hail can cause serious damage to a car, and in states like Colorado, hail damage can lead to damage that seriously affects a vehicle’s value and even safety. If your car is damaged by hail, you need to have it repaired quickly to avoid further damage such as rust and corrosion. Look for professional Hail Damage Repair Colorado Springs experts with experience in repairing hail damage so that you know your cars are in great care. To reduce the risk of hail damage, always:
- Use Covered Parking: If you live somewhere that experiences intense hail seasons, then covered parking is highly recommended. It will protect your car’s body, and reduce the risk of smashed, chipped, or cracked windows. If you’re driving when a hailstorm hits, try to find cover as quickly as possible. Parking underneath a freeway or in gas stations is a common option.
- Blankets: If covered parking is not an option, you can cover your car in tarps and blankets. Use as many as you can find. The more layers of protection you can apply, the safer your car will be.
Always check your local weather reports so that you know when you may expect hailstorms. That way, you can run out to your car and either move it somewhere safe or cover it as quickly as possible.
Cars need to be protected if they are to remain safe to drive. Whether it’s completely random or simply just that time of year, extreme weather is one of the most common threats to vehicles. Ensure that you know the best ways to protect your vehicle from the types of weather that your state experiences, and you’ll be driving safer in a car that will last a lot longer.
