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Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and harsh UV rays can wreak havoc on your vehicle's cabin, causing fading, cracking, and general deterioration. But with some proactive measures, you can keep your car's interior cool, comfortable, and protected throughout the summer.
When it comes to the summer heat and sun damage, the interior of your car is just as much at risk as the exterior.
“Clear summer skies allow more UV rays from the sun to beat on your vehicle’s finishes,” says Jim Dvorak of Mothers Automotive Cleaners and Polishes. “When coupled with heat, materials are attacked at all levels.”
Some of the most common issues Dvorak sees with the interior upholstery include, “common wear and tear can do a lot of damage to a vehicle’s upholstery, whether it’s fabric, vinyl or leather. Physical abrasions, food mishaps and other accidents are common occurrences while enjoying the fun of summer.”
Cleaning your vehicle interior
So what are a few protective measures you can enact to help protect your car's interior this summer?
One of the best protective measures Dvorak suggests is simply being mindful of the dirt and grime you bring into your car.
“Keeping yourself and your clothes and shoes as clean as possible when entering your vehicle can help reduce physical damage,” says Dvorak. “Avoid dragging in sand, dirt, and gravel that not only creates extra work to clean up but can also physically abrade interior materials or cause a slip hazard on floor mats and pedals.”
Dvorak goes on to say that if left on upholstery, fine grains can get in the nooks and crannies of upholstery and wear away at the material and stitching. He also warns that some sunscreens often cause damage or stains on interior finishes–and to be careful when eating those burgers and fries at the drive-in.
“Once crumbs fall into places you can’t reach, it will take a lot of work to clean up.”
Be conscious of clothing with protruding buckles, rivets and other objects that can physically damage upholstery finishes.
Maintaining interior look, feel
Beyond the in-the-moment precautions you can take to protect your car’s interior, there are several things you can install for continual protection.
“Taking a passive role, having modern window tint film installed that has UV filters is a great way to protect your vehicle’s interior, yourself, and reduce heat transmission,” says Dvorak. “Be sure to follow guidelines for your state, as regulations vary.
Drivers need to check state regulations on window tints, Dvorak emphasizes.
For instance, Michigan allows window tint of any darkness only in the uppermost four inches of the front windshield. California also tint in the uppermost portion of the windshield but requires no less than 70% visible light transmission for front side windows. Both states allow any tint level in rear or back side windows.
Cleaning and protecting interior surfaces
Another way to help protect your car’s interior is to clean the inside routinely, starting with a thorough vacuuming of the carpet and upholstery. Also, use an interior detailer meant for vehicles on hard and soft surfaces to remove embedded grime.
Where applicable, Dvorak also recommends drivers apply a protectant on the vinyl, rubber and plastic surfaces–especially those that see a lot of sun. Be sure to clean and condition them so they maintain their nourishing oils and stay pliable in the heat of summer.
“Condition, condition, condition,” Dvorak says. “On many interior surfaces, once they are physically damaged from abrasion or neglect, the damage is often permanent.”
Tips for a healthy, attractive interior
The following suggestions help prevent sun and heat damage to your vehicle’s vinyl, rubber and leather surfaces. They also help you maintain an attractive vehicle interior for the life of your vehicle:
- Sunshades: Investing in a quality sunshade for your windshield is perhaps the simplest yet most effective way to protect your car's interior. These reflective shields block out a significant amount of sunlight and heat, keeping your car's cabin cooler and shielding your dashboard from direct UV exposure.
- Dash Covers: A dash cover shields your dashboard from sun damage. These covers come in various materials and colors, allowing you to customize your car's look while providing crucial protection against cracking and fading.
- Seat Covers: Seat covers aren't just for hiding stains or updating your car's look. They also provide an extra layer of protection against the sun's damaging rays. Opt for light-colored covers to reflect heat and prevent your seats from becoming unbearably hot.
- Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in shaded areas or garages. If shade isn't available, try to park with your car's rear facing the sun.
- Steering Wheel Cover: A steering wheel cover not only provides a comfortable grip but also protects the wheel from direct sunlight. This can prevent the steering wheel from becoming too hot to touch and extend its lifespan by preventing cracking and peeling.
- Vacuuming: Embedded contaminants not only detract from the beauty of your vehicle but they also can contribute to long term material damage.
- Cleaning: Remove grime, spills, sticky substances, dirt, sap, drool and other contaminants promptly. Use an automobile interior cleaner since they’re gentle on interior surfaces. Avoid using harsh household cleaners.
- Conditioning: Apply interior protectant routinely to help protect from ultraviolet damage to vinyl, rubber and leather materials. Use products designed for automobile interiors.
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