In good summer weather, there is a risk of dirt and damage occurring to vehicles from sun exposure, tree sap and bug splats.
For those without a garage to protect their car from the elements, there are a few ways to preserve a car when parking on a driveway or the street.
Car leasing experts from the UK (LeaseCar.uk ) has provided drivers with some top tips to keep their car in showroom condition without the protection of a garage.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk says whether it is using a windscreen cover or simply washing regularly, there are many ways to ensure the lack of a garage is not a hindrance.
Seven best tips
1 )Use a windscreen cover - A windscreen cover can not only stop the car from overheating, but it can also prevent the dashboard from fading too.
2 ) Regular washing - It sounds painfully obvious, but ensuring your car stays clean is essential, excess dust, pollen and sap can build up over time. This can cause the exterior of the car to deteriorate quickly.
3 ) Wax - To protect the car’s paint job from external forces such as UV damage, regular wax application can help to coat the bodywork and provide protection.
4 ) Oil - Even if the car is stored in a place that is unlikely to rust too badly or seize up, application of WD-40 is important to keep things moving as they should.
5 ) Be wary of hazards - Just check that the driveway or parking spot is not shadowed by a tree, and if it is, make sure this tree is secure and not in danger of dropping anything damaging onto your car. If the car is against a hedge or similar, ensure there are no thorns or outward branches that could rub against the paintwork.
6 ) React quickly to any damage - with the vehicle out in the elements to an extent, any damage might be exacerbated further by weather conditions, so any scratches or dents should ideally be dealt with as soon as possible.
7 ) Invest in a car shelter - While not the cheapest, and providing some issues when it comes to home owner codes, etc, a car shelter, which takes the shape of more or less a gazebo to put over your car, could keep the worst of the elements away. Plenty of room is needed, but such products are worth a look at.
