The strong Middle Tennessee summer sun is hard on more than just your engine. Day after day of heat and ultraviolet light take a real toll on your vehicle’s paint, interior, and trim, and a little protection goes a long way toward keeping your car looking good and holding its value. Franklin drivers who park outside see this wear the fastest.
Sunlight fades and dulls paint over time, and heat can accelerate the breakdown of a clear coat that is not cared for. Inside, dashboards and seats bake in the sun, causing plastics to fade or crack and upholstery to wear prematurely. The greenhouse effect of a closed car in a hot parking lot can push interior temperatures to extremes, which is hard on electronics and materials alike, not to mention uncomfortable when you climb in.
There are simple steps that help. Parking in the shade or using a windshield sun shade reduces interior heat and protects the dash. Regular washing removes contaminants that damage paint, and periodic waxing adds a protective layer against the sun. Cracking the windows slightly, where it is safe to do so, can reduce heat buildup. Keeping your interior clean and conditioned helps surfaces last.
While the mechanical side is our specialty, at Home Town Auto Care in Franklin we care about the whole vehicle and are glad to share advice on keeping yours in great shape through the summer. Stop by our Franklin shop with any questions about protecting your investment from the Tennessee heat.
