Summer is here, and with it bringing scorching temps and harsh sunlight. Conditions like this can do a number on your car, and we're not just talking about the exterior - intense heat can also ruin your car's interior and cause issues under the hood over time. However, there are easy steps you can take to protect your car from the heat, and our Charlotte Toyota Collision Center is here with a list of tips.
Six ways to protect your car from heat this summer
Tip #1: Park under cover.
When you choose a parking spot in the summer, try your best to park under cover. Any shade at all can make a big difference in protecting your car from intense sunlight and subsequent fading. It'll also keep your car's interior cooler. A garage or carport is best, but even a patch of trees that provides shade half of the day is better than nothing.
Tip #2: Detail regularly.
Detail your car on a routine basis all year round, but especially in the summer. This means washing and waxing, as wax will play a critical role in protecting your car's paint from the sun. Wax creates an invisible barrier between your paint and the exterior elements, so applying a coat or two of a quality product on a routine basis can keep your paint looking like-new. Ask our Charlotte Toyota parts specialists which one is best for your ride.
Tip #3: Buy a sunshade.
Invest in a sunshade now. We're talking about the ones that kind of look like aluminum foil that you prop up in the windshield. This will not only keep your car's interior cooler, but also keep sunlight from fading your dash, seats, and other parts of your car's interior. You can shop for them at our Charlotte auto parts store to ensure you get the right size.
Tip #4: Leave your windows cracked.
If it's not going to downpour, crack your car windows when you park it. This allows some of the hot air to escape the cabin which means 1) you won't be sweating the instant you slide into the driver's seat and 2) the heat won't build as much inside your car, so there's less chance of damage.
Tip #5: Condition all leather.
If you have leather or SofTex inside your vehicle, be sure that you regularly condition it. This will help prevent cracking and other damage that's caused when intense heat dries the material out. Putting on seat covers and a steering wheel cover can also help in this instance, protecting everything from the sun.
Tip #6: Stay aware of what's going on under the hood.
Make sure you stay on top of routine car care all summer long at our Charlotte Toyota service center. This means getting routine oil changes, coolant checks, tire rotations, wheel alignments, brake service, and battery checks so your car can beat the heat until fall arrives.
Let Toyota of N Charlotte help protect your car from heat
Have questions or need to schedule car care? Call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.
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