While we aren’t experiencing harsh winter weather (yet), that doesn’t mean that protective measures should be skipped for your car. Here’s how fall elements affect your car’s exterior and how to protect it as temperatures drop.
Fall Elements That Affect Your Cars Exterior
Falling Leaves Can Damage Paint
Have you ever seen prints of big leaves on a car that’s been parked for awhile? This is a perfect example of what falling leaves can do to your car’s paint.
Leaves contain sap and acid and can damage your vehicle’s finish when left on your car for an extended period of time. Rain and moisture just exacerbates the issue as it helps leaves stick to your vehicle and leave a harmful residue behind.
Debris Can Scratch or Dent Your Car’s Exterior
It’s not just leaves that drop either. Falling branches can scratch your vehicle’s paint. Colder temperatures also bring more potholes. Those potholes can kick up rocks and debris, potentially denting your car’s exterior.
Lower Temps Means Lower Tire Pressure
Lower temperatures can lead to lower tire pressure, putting drivers at risk of a tire blowout or damaging their rims. It’s estimated that for every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by one to two PSI.
Cold Weather and Debris Can Cause and Spread Windshield Cracks
Falling branches and debris can hurt more than your vehicle’s finish. They can create chips and cracks in your windshield.
What’s more, colder temps are not kind to any auto glass damage that’s developing. What might have been a small chip on your windshield during the summer can quickly turn into a more pressing issue as the temperature falls.
How to Protect Your Vehicle in the Fall
Keep Your Car Covered
Park in a covered structure whenever possible to prevent leaves from accumulating on your vehicle. If you don’t have a garage, utilize a car cover. Wash and wax your car regularly to ensure no residue lingers on your vehicle’s exterior.
Be Aware of Debris and Potholes
Fallen tree limbs and fresh potholes are nothing unusual in Michigan, so keep an eye out for any roadway surprises. Avoiding potholes is often easier said than done, but simply being mindful can help you avoid larger potholes and mitigate risk of damage.
Don’t Ignore Low Tire Pressure
It can be tempting to put off filling your tires, but it’s not worth the risk of a tire blowout. Most modern vehicles have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). So take action after any TPMS warning light and always follow the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle’s make and model.
Take Your Car to a Professional When Damage Occurs
If damage does occur to your vehicle’s exterior, whether it’s the paint, tires, or windshield, make sure to take your car to a professional for help. Timely repair can prevent the issue from worsening and can revitalize your car’s exterior.
Staying proactive about protecting your car from fall elements can prevent unsightly and potentially dangerous damage from occurring to your car this fall.
About Michigan Auto Body Shop, Pole Position Auto Body
Pole Position Auto Body is an I-CAR Gold Class Certified facility that’s been repairing Metro Detroiters’ vehicles for over 3 decades. We follow all OEM procedures and utilize the current technology and repair techniques to return your car to its pristine condition. We understand your time is valuable and provide safe, high-quality repairs in the fastest turnaround time possible, typically 3 days sooner than the average repair facility!
