You might love California’s sunny skies. But now you may notice cracks on your car’s dashboard. The dry climate plays a big role. This weather strips natural moisture from plastics. So the dashboard becomes brittle over time. You may not expect damage so soon. Yet UV rays and low humidity combine.
They weaken interior materials year after year. That is why even newer cars show damage. The dashboard is especially vulnerable. It faces constant sunlight and heat. So the material cannot stay flexible. But car owners can take steps to reduce damage. Prevention starts with understanding the cause.
The Role of Sunlight and Heat
California has over 260 sunny days per year. That is great for outdoor activities. But now those rays attack car interiors. Sunlight brings ultraviolet radiation. This radiation breaks down plastic polymers. The dashboard absorbs most of this energy. It sits directly behind the windshield. So it heats up faster than other parts. Temperatures inside a parked car can soar. They often exceed 150 degrees in summer.
This heat accelerates chemical breakdown in plastics. The material loses elasticity and starts to fade. Cracks begin as tiny lines you barely see. They spread slowly across seams and edges. Eventually, the damage becomes visible and permanent. Once cracking starts, it cannot reverse. Protective films or parking in shade helps. Still, many drivers overlook these simple steps. The team at Moore’s Garage sees this often.
Chemical Exposure Speeds Up Damage
Many car owners use cleaning products daily. These sprays and wipes often contain harsh chemicals. Some contain alcohol or solvents. These ingredients strip protective layers from plastic. They may leave a shiny finish at first. But over time, they degrade the surface. The dashboard loses its UV defense coating. Now sunlight penetrates more deeply. Damage happens faster than in untreated cars. Regular care prevents early breakdown. Moore’s Garage recommends trusted brands.
Prevention and Professional Help
Protecting your dashboard starts with simple habits. Use sunshades when parked. Apply UV-protective conditioners monthly. Park in shade or covered areas when possible. Clean with gentle, approved products only. These steps slow aging significantly. But if cracks appear, act fast. Delaying repair worsens the damage. Small cracks can be sealed by experts. Larger damage may need panel replacement. That is where professional service matters.
For reliable solutions, try Auto Repair in Orangevale, CA. Skilled technicians assess and restore interiors. They use quality materials and proper methods. Your car stays safe and looks great. The experts at Moore’s Garage deliver trusted results. Protect your investment with regular care and support.
