Heat during the warm season can damage cars, especially in hotter states like Virginia. In addition to making the seats uncomfortable, the sun’s rays can take a toll on your car’s appearance and operation. From chipping paint and rusted siding to flat tires and breakdowns, here are several tips to protect your engine and auto body from the damaging impacts of the sun.

3 Tips to Avoid Engine & Auto Body Damage During the Warm Season

1. Top Off the Fluids

High temperatures take a toll on your engine, so it’s important to keep it running efficiently. Vehicles require a variety of fluids to ensure optimal operation, including oil, AC coolant, and radiator fluid. Unless you are an expert, you should get a fluid check every time you go to an auto body shop for an oil change or other routine maintenance.

2. Take Cover

Parking in the shade, particularly while you’re away from your car for a long time, will protect your auto body from the sun’s rays. If a parking garage isn’t available, find a spot that’s shaded by trees or other landscaping features. When no natural shade is accessible, cover the inside of your windshield. While your vehicle’s exterior won’t be protected, sun shades can keep your interior from aging prematurely.

3. Maintain the Tire Pressure

The pressure can fluctuate more in the heat. Unless you own a newer vehicle with a built-in tire pressure monitoring system, invest in a pressure gauge to check the tires every few weeks. Unscrew the cap and hold the device down on the valve of each tire. If the pressure reads lower or higher than the PSI noted on the manufacturer's sticker inside the driver’s side door, add or remove air until all the wheels are the same.

If your car gets damaged by the sun, the auto body repair experts at Whitesell Collision can help. Based in Augusta County, VA, this trusted collision repair shop has been serving customers for over 70 years. Generations of families continue to come back to this automotive repair shop because of their quality customer service and fair prices. Call (540) 943-3361 or complete an online form to speak with a member of their team.