As the owner of a vehicle, you need to realize the role that weather conditions can play in the wear and tear of your car. Each season has with it its different risks that pose a threat to your car’s performance, life span, and general condition.
Having an understanding of these different risks allows you to take preventive measures and safeguard your vehicle, minimizing damage and extending its lifespan. Here, we’ll show you the effects different weather conditions have on your car and give you actionable steps you can take to keep your car in top shape all year round.
Extreme Heat Weather Conditions
Some of us welcome heat waves, especially after a long winter, but your car might not be as much of a fan of them as you are.
Scorching temperatures can directly impact your car’s engine and raise the odds of it overheating. This risk of overheating only increases if your coolant level is low or your radiator is worn out.
High temperatures can also degrade essential fluids in your car, such as engine oil, transmission fluid and brake fluid. Heat can deteriorate these fluids, making them less effective at lubricating and protecting vital components. This can lead to an increased risk of mechanical failure.
If you leave your car in the sun a lot, the paint on your car will peel and crack over time. The inside of your car will not be safe either, and heat can warp dashboards, destroy upholstery, and make plastic components brittle.
How to Safeguard Your Car in Severe Heat
- Park in the shade or purchase a sunshade to protect your interior.
- Regular monitoring of coolant level and proper cooling system functioning.
- Regular oil and fluid changes should be done to prevent overheating.
- Apply a ceramic finish or wax to protect your car’s paint from sun damage.
Rain and Humidity
Rain and humidity can cause a range of problems with your car. These issues can include things like rusting and electrical problems. Your car’s undercarriage, wheel wells and exhaust are particularly vulnerable to rusting. Rust alone can destroy structural components on your car, and this will lead to very costly repairs.
Driving in the rain also increases the chances of brake problems. Water will speed up wear on brake parts, and stopping power can be reduced if water does find its way into brake lines.
Heavy rain can also damage road surfaces, leading to the formation of potholes. Driving over potholes can wear down VW Golf shock absorbers. You can get more general information about shock absorbers on the site onlinecarparts.co.uk.
How to Shield Your Vehicle from Rain and Humidity
- Park in a covered or ventilated space whenever possible.
- Wax and wash your vehicle frequently to shield it against rust.
Cold Weather
Cold or freezing temperatures are as hard on your car as hot weather. When it’s very cold, chemical reactions inside your car battery slow down, reducing its ability to hold a charge.
Engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid can also thicken when the temperature drops, making it harder for these fluids to circulate. Poor fluid circulation can lead to sluggish gear shifts and reduced braking efficiency.
How to Keep Your Car Safe in Freezing Weather
- Test your battery before winter and replace it if needed.
- Use winter-grade oil and check fluid levels regularly.
Shielding Your Vehicle from Weather-Induced Wear
By understanding how different weather conditions affect your car, you can take proactive steps to minimize wear and tear. With the right precautions, you can extend the lifespan of your car and keep it running smoothly, no matter what the weather brings.
