Extreme heat can have several negative effects on your car, impacting performance, safety, and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of how it can affect different components:
Battery
- Heat accelerates battery fluid evaporation, which can lead to internal corrosion.
- High temperatures shorten battery life, especially in older batteries.
Fluids (Oil, Coolant, Transmission Fluid)
- Coolant becomes especially important to prevent engine overheating.
- Heat can thin engine oil, reducing its ability to lubricate properly.
- Transmission fluid can degrade faster, impacting gear performance.
Engine
- Heat causes tire pressure to rise, increasing the risk of a blowout.
- Underinflated or overinflated tires are more vulnerable in hot conditions.
Interior
- UV rays and heat can crack dashboards, fade upholstery, and damage electronics.
- Cabin temperatures can climb dangerously high, posing health risks.
Paint and Exterior
- Prolonged sun exposure can fade paint and degrade rubber trims and seals.
- Waxing your car and using a car cover or shaded parking can help.
Other Effects
- Belts and hoses are more likely to crack or burst in heat.
- Electronics like infotainment systems and sensors may become glitchy.
Tips to Protect Your Car in Extreme Heat
- Check fluid levels regularly.
- Park in the shade or use sunshades
- Monitor tire pressure weekly.
- Get your cooling system serviced.
- Clean and wax your car to protect the paint.
- Use a windshield sunshade and crack windows slightly when parked.