Few things exemplify freedom as much as a car is. It is the ultimate in removing your limitations and setting you free. With a proper car, every destination is suddenly within your grasp, and no distance is too great to reach. Instead of being bound by the whims of public transportation when commuting, you can use your vehicle for the same purpose, but with more safety and time efficiency.
Because of that, taking care of your car should be a priority. After all, there’s not much use of it if it’s run down or close to breaking. While it’s certainly not easy to keep it in a pristine condition, there are numerous ways to reduce the environmental strain it experiences during its lifetime. They include purchasing a car cover, parking it in the garage, washing and waxing it often, investing in sunshades, or even using a portable carport. Follow the specified tips and help yourself enjoy your car for years to come.
Wash and Wax It Regularly
One of the best ways to protect your car from environmental stressors is washing and waxing it regularly. Wash it to remove dirt and dust, which may harm its surface. Besides, washing also allows you to see if there are any damages, which you need to repair immediately. Waxing your car makes it easier to remove dirt and dust by creating a very smooth surface. It’s also very affordable, so you don’t have to worry about breaking your bank just to stick to a regular washing and waxing schedule.
The frequency of washing and waxing can vary depending on the condition of your car’s surface. If it is still new, you may only need to do it once or twice a month. On the other hand, if your car is used regularly, you may need to wash and wax it every week.
Park at Your Garage
Aside from regular washing and waxing, the best way to protect your car from environmental stressors is parking at your garage whenever possible. This puts it out of harm’s way, especially when you’re not using it.
A garage provides shelter for your car, which means it won’t be exposed to UV rays and harsh weather conditions like rain and snow. It also keeps out debris like leaves and trash, which can damage your car if driven with them on its surface.
However, you need to ensure that your garage meets the car manufacturer’s recommendations for storing it and creating a favorable environment. Make sure to weatherstrip and seal the garage door to keep your car safe from the elements, and inspect the garage door to timely defect any possible malfunctions.
Use a Cover
A car cover is one of the best accessories to have if you want to keep your vehicle safe from the elements. It prevents dirt and dust from settling on its surface by blocking the sunlight. It also helps avoid scratches, dents, and chips during parking, especially when you’re not around.
They are usually bought in convenient sizes, so they should fit snugly. If you can’t find a cover suitable for your vehicle, it might mean that it’s too big. In this case, it’s better to get a tarpaulin instead – they are cheaper and easier to install. They are also easily replaceable, so you don’t have to worry about the cost.
Use Sunshades
Another way to protect your car from the elements and avoid restoring sun-damaged car paint is using sunshades. You can buy them in auto parts stores, shops that sell accessories for vehicles or order them online. Most of them come with suction cups that allow you to mount them on the dashboard, so they don’t fall off easily.
They usually come in different colors and shapes so you can choose what suits your style and taste best. Make sure to purchase one of good quality, so it doesn’t fade or lose its stickiness easily.
Invest in Portable Carports
Another great way to protect your car from the elements is using portable carports, which are basically covers that protect your vehicle from rain and snow. These shelters come in different sizes and styles, so you can choose the one that suits your preferences best. Not only do car covers protect the car from the elements, but they overall offer outstanding protection. You can choose both indoor and outdoor car covers like those from Coverland to provide ultimate protection to your car.
It is effortless to install and even easier to store when not in use. As long as you put them in a safe place, they will certainly last for years to come, even with constant exposure to the elements. However, portable carports are more suitable for bigger cars, as they take some space in the vehicle when not in use. Nonetheless, they are still helpful in keeping small sedans safe from inclement weather conditions when parked outside.
Conclusion
Cars have become a necessity in today’s world, with most people using them frequently to get from one place to another. If yours is not adequately protected from mother nature, it will not only look ugly but also run down faster than you expect.
While you may want to keep it looking new, you also need to invest in adequate protection for it. With the right accessories, you can keep it safe from the elements and be good to go whenever you need it.