How to Keep Your Car Looking Like New in a Humid Environment
For those who live in warm, humid areas, it is vital to take measures to protect your vehicle while at the same time making it look good as new. Continuous exposure to the sun and humid conditions can take its toll not just on the exterior but also on your car's interior over time.
If you want to effectively prevent damages brought about by extreme heat and humidity, it requires effort on your part. Doing so will significantly help in extending the life of your vehicle and preserving its appearance.
Check out some useful tips to help your vehicle fight off the heat and humidity:
Protecting the Interior of Your Vehicle
If your car is under direct exposure to the sun, in as little as two hours the internal temperature can rise to 200º F. That kind of intense heat can damage your dashboard and upholstery over time, resulting in dryness and cracks. Clean the dashboard regularly using a microfiber cloth to eliminate any buildup of grime and dust. Do not forget to polish to maintain its gloss, which can turn dull from the sun exposure.
Aside from applying an interior protectant, you can also protect your vehicle from the sun by covering the interior as well. You can use steering wheel covers, extra car seat covers, and sunshade visors to minimize UV exposure. You can also use windshield sunshades as an affordable option to protect your car. If you are financially able to splurge, you can invest in rear shades that have unique designs.
If you have leather seats, use a conditioner for protection. Constant exposure to the sun and heat can cause damage. The best way to avoid tears or cracks is to keep the seats clean and regularly apply a leather conditioner.
Inspect the Tires
During warm months, the tires of your vehicle are at a higher risk for abrupt blowouts. If your car is not equipped with TPMS sensors, you should manually check tire pressures regularly. Make sure that they are within the proper PSI benchmark as specified by the manufacturer.
There are instances in which you need to bring your tires to a service center for a thorough tire assessment. The technicians will analyze the tread depth of your tires and inform you when replacement is necessary. Remember that worn-out tires can be hazardous as they are more likely to burst or go flat as you’re driving. If you feel that your car needs a check-up and comprehensive maintenance, check out the services at a local shop, especially if your car need specialized maintenance.
Preventing Salt Damage
In areas close to bodies of water, the high humidity can result in damage to your car over time. Salt water in particular can corrode metal, rapid formation of rust, and erode the car paint.
One way to protect your vehicle from humidity and saltwater is to apply wax at least twice a year. Using wax or sealant is essential since it helps preserve the clear coat of your vehicle. The coating works by sealing in the natural oils in the exterior paint while also serving as a buffer to lessen sun damage and minimize scratches.
Try parking indoors as much as possible or look for a fitted cover to place around your vehicle when it is outside—this will help lessen the damage brought about by the humid environment.
Replace Wiper Blades
Plastic and rubber can degrade if under constant exposure to high temperatures. Since the windshield wiper blades are plastic and rubber, they are prone to damage once it is too hot. It would be best to replace them at least 2–3 times in a year or once they start to leave behind streaks on the windshield.
Look for a Shaded Area
If you are going to park your vehicle outdoors, always remember to look for shade. Park your vehicle under the shade whenever possible as a way to lessen the damage to your car paint.
Dehumidify
Even if you park your vehicle in the shade, humidity is still an issue of concern. Eliminating humid air from the storage area is essential. You can use a dehumidifier, which works effectively in areas with small spaces. Ensure that your garage is well-constructed and that the exterior walls have proper insulation to reduce the level of indoor humidity.
Washing the Car
When you wash your car regularly, it helps block radiant heat and bounces off the UV rays easier than dirty vehicles. Ensure that you clean your vehicle, ideally by hand, as often as possible during the hot, humid months of the year. Do not forget to apply a car paint protectant after washing to ensure your vehicle's best protection.
Conclusion
If you are staying in areas with humid and warm conditions all year round, it can take a toll on your vehicle over time. Aside from keeping your vehicle indoors to protect the paint, do not forget to pay close attention to the maintenance tips above so that your car will look good as new in a humid environment. With proper care during hot, humid months, your vehicle will look good and keep you safe during your daily drives.