Have you ever wondered what happens if you leave your car parked under the sun for hours without protection? Today, we’re running an experiment to show you why a sun shade is more than just an accessory—it’s a necessity.
1. Your Car Becomes a Heat Trap
When your car is parked under direct sunlight, the interior temperature rises quickly due to the greenhouse effect. Sunlight passes through the windshield and gets trapped inside, causing the heat to build up.
Within just 10 minutes, the temperature inside a car can rise by 20°F or more.
After an hour, it can exceed 120°F, even if it’s only 85°F outside.
2. Dashboard and Interior Damage
Constant exposure to UV rays and high heat takes a toll on your car’s interior:
Dashboard cracking and fading: UV rays dry out the dashboard material, causing cracks and dullness over time.
Faded upholstery: Fabric and leather seats lose color and start to look worn.
Weakened adhesives: Heat can cause materials like plastic trim or dashboard panels to loosen or warp.
3. Damage to Car Electronics
Modern cars have screens, infotainment systems, and sensors on the dashboard. Prolonged exposure to heat and UV rays can:
Cause screen discoloration or pixel burn.
Damage plastic components like buttons or vents.
Reduce the lifespan of electronic circuits due to constant heat stress.
4. Harmful Air Quality Inside the Car
High interior temperatures can cause toxic fumes to be released from heated plastic and upholstery, especially in new cars. This is known as “off-gassing” and can result in harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) filling the air inside your car.
With a sun shade, the interior stays cooler, reducing the severity of these fumes.
