How UV Exposure Can Harm Your Car

June 03, 2025

sun shining inside carUV light might not seem harmful at first glance, but over time, it can cause significant damage to your car's interior and exterior. While we don’t usually feel the immediate effects like a sunburn, UV rays paired with high temperatures can slowly degrade various parts of your vehicle.

When parked directly under the sun, the temperature inside your car can easily reach between 145 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. Over time, you’ll begin to notice cracks and fading in areas like the dashboard, upholstery, paint, and even hidden components.

Dashboard

One of the first places you’ll likely notice the effects of UV exposure is the dashboard. Since it sits right beneath the windshield, it’s highly susceptible to sunlight. Fading and cracking not only affect its appearance but can also compromise its structural integrity over time.

Upholstery

The extent of the damage varies depending on the type of material used. Leather seats, for instance, can become dry and brittle if left unprotected from the sun. This loss of moisture makes the leather feel rough and uncomfortable. To prevent this, it’s essential to condition leather regularly and invest in seat covers to shield it from UV rays. Even fabrics aren’t immune to UV damage, though they tend to show wear in the form of faded colors rather than cracks.

Paint

Your car’s paint job is another area that takes a hit from prolonged UV exposure. Dark-colored vehicles are especially vulnerable to fading and losing their shine due to oxidation. Additionally, plastic components such as bumpers, headlights, and mirrors can deteriorate visibly, developing cracks and discoloration as time goes on. These changes can make your car look older than it actually is, even with routine cleaning and waxing.

Interior Components

Excessive heat and UV rays can also impact your car’s functionality and safety:

  • Belts and hoses may weaken, crack, and eventually break loose, posing risks to your car’s performance.
  • Fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, and antifreeze can evaporate, leading to thicker consistency and poor flow. This could cause overheating issues or premature wear on critical components.
  • High temperatures can affect tire pressure, potentially inflating them beyond safe levels and increasing the likelihood of blowouts.

Minimizing UV Damage

To reduce UV-related harm, try parking your car in a shaded area, like a garage or under a portable canopy. Keeping your vehicle out of direct sunlight will help maintain its appearance and keep it cooler when you’re ready to drive again.

In addition to these basic steps:

  • Routinely clean your car to remove dirt and debris, preventing substances like bird droppings or tar from becoming permanently embedded in the surface.
  • Dry your car thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any mineral deposits that could harm your paint.
  • Apply wax to protect your exterior from dirt, fading, and rust.
  • Use windshield shades to block UV rays from reaching sensitive areas inside your car, and consider leaving your windows cracked slightly to let trapped heat escape.
  • For leather interiors, seat covers offer excellent protection against UV damage.

Spotting signs of UV damage on your car? DaSilva’s Auto Body offers comprehensive solutions for both interior and exterior detailing, repainting, and part replacement or repair. Contact our Naugatuck location to schedule an appointment and keep your ride looking and functioning its best.

Remember, protecting your car isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about ensuring longevity and safety on the road!

SHAOXING KEQIAO FANEVER IMPORT AND EXPORT CO., LTD , https://www.sxfanever.com