While you might want summer to last forever, you don’t want its effects to make a permanent mark on the car paint, interior, and other components of your vehicle. The heat and UV rays can damage a car just as it can damage your health. Below are four effective ways to make sure your vehicle makes it through the summer.

How to Protect a Vehicle During the Hot Summer Months

1. Park in the Shade

If a car stays in direct sunlight for an extended period of time, the dashboard can crack due to the extreme heat. To prevent this from occurring, park in the shade, including at home. Then, crack the windows to even out the air pressure and minimize the chances of dashboard damage.

2. Regularly Wash & Wax 

The UV rays from the sun and hot temperatures can cause car paint to crack and fade. In addition, the heat will bake any debris onto the body of the car, making it more difficult to clean. Regularly wash and wax your vehicle to protect its car paint. The wax will add a durable layer of protection against the sun. Whether you do it yourself or take it to a professional, make sure it’s hand-dried to avoid any scratches from debris.

3. Apply a Leather Conditioner

In addition to a car’s exterior, the sun and heat can also damage the interior. For example, if you have leather seats, apply a leather conditioner so it doesn’t crack, tear, or fade. You can either do this yourself or enlist a detailing company to provide the service.

4. Inspect the Cooling System

Your engine has its own cooling system to prevent overheating, which is particularly important during the summertime. The coolant, antifreeze, and belts should all be inspected by a professional, particularly at the beginning of the summer. During an inspection, the fluids may be drained and replaced with fresh liquid. By getting your vehicle serviced, you’ll avoid a dangerous and expensive overheated engine.

If you need help preparing a car for summer, or if your vehicle just needs a repair, take it to Howard’s Auto Body in Canton, GA. They have 40 years of experience providing auto body repair, restoration services, dent removal, and other services to drivers in the area. They’re dedicated to making any type of car repair as hassle-free as possible by offering towing, free estimates, and rental car services. They also employ teams of technicians that specialize in certain repairs, such as car paint and metal, so your vehicle only receives the highest-quality care. Give them a call at (770) 720-1107 or visit their website to learn more about how they can repair and protect your vehicle this summer. You can also find them on Facebook.