As you head to work or take off on a road trip this summer, you might not feel the hot sun inside your air-conditioned vehicle. However, that doesn’t mean it’s sparing the car. To learn more about how this season might damage your ride, and what you can do to prevent the need for auto service, consult the guide below.

How Rising Temperatures Impact Cars

Interior

When the hot sun shines through the windows, it reaches the seats, doors, console, and dashboard. In addition to making them hot to the touch, the sunlight will also fade certain materials, leading to patches of discoloration that decrease your car’s value. If you have leather seats, the sun may dry out the natural oils, causing the material to crack. Luckily, you can prevent this by parking indoors and placing deflectors in the windows when you can’t.

Exterior

If your car is painted in a bold or dark hue, expect the same damage from the sun as the interior. The harsh UV rays may soften the sealant and cause warping or discoloration, especially if the paint hasn’t fully cured. The heat can also affect the tires, increasing the air pressure inside of them. If you don’t keep an eye on the pressure, you could be at risk of a blowout. The heat can also dry out the oils in the rubber, leading to cracking and tread separation—especially if you’re due for a tire replacement.

Engine Block

The battery beneath your hood powers the engine starter, radio, headlights, and various other electrical components. Unfortunately, the summer heat can cause thermal runaway, in which there is more internal heat than the battery can put to use. It could also fail completely, preventing the engine from turning.

Sun can also thicken the oil that lubricates the moving parts of the engine block. As a result, the components grind against each other. In the worst cases, the engine could completely seize up, especially if the oil is old or the coolant supply is low. That’s why it’s crucial to schedule auto service appointments for oil changes, coolant refills, and battery inspections on a regular basis.

Want to learn more about how to protect your car from seasonal changes? Get in touch with Dirk's Auto Repair of Lincoln, NE. Since 1995, they have been providing comprehensive auto services to area drivers, and they are consistently acknowledged by the Better Business Bureau® and their many satisfied customers. To schedule auto service for your vehicle, call (402) 466-6010 today. Visit the website for more information on their offerings.