How to Make your car summer proof

The summer sun can wreck havoc on your automobile. Use this tutorial to keep your paint job shiny and your interior bright in the scorching summer sun.

You Will Need

• Car washes and waxes

• Exterior trim protectant

• Interior trim and seat protectant

• Replacement fluids

• A tire pressure gauge

• A sun shade

• A car cover

• Seat covers

• Steering wheel cover

• Polishing compound (optional)

Step 1: Wash and wax

Wash your car on a regular basis to get rid of harmful grit and to protect your paint job from the elements. Wax at least once before summer begins.

For your car wax to be most effective, use a polishing compound to remove old wax and grime before rubbing on a new layer of wax.

Step 2: Apply exterior trim protectant

Apply exterior trim protectant to all rubber trim to keep the sun from drying and cracking your trim and window seals.

Step 3: Apply interior trim and seat protectant

Apply interior trim and seat protectant.

Read labels before using protectants. Some chemicals may not be compatible with your car's interior.

Step 4: Replace and replenish fluids

Replace and replenish fluids. Pay close attention to the coolant and oil.

Step 5: Check tire pressure

Check the tire pressure using a pressure gauge.

Continue to check pressure as temperatures rise. For every 10 degree Fahrenheit increase, tire pressure increases 1 pound per square inch.

Step 6: Use a sun shade

Place a sun shade behind the windshield when you get out of the car, particularly when leaving it outside during your workday.

Step 7: Use covers

Use car, car seat, and steering wheel covers; follow maintenance tips; and your car should keep you safe all summer.