No garage? Here’s how to help protect your car

Tree sap and bird droppings can do some serious damage to your car’s paint job. So, how do you stay on top of it? Well, being strategic about where you park – whenever you can – can help! Instead of taking that spot under the gum tree, opt for a spot that’s not directly under the branches. That way, you’ll be less likely to find tree sap and bird droppings on the roof of your vehicle.

Keeping an eye on the weather is especially important when you need to park your car outside, because hailstorms and swirling debris can leave your car vulnerable to dents and scratches. Thankfully, there are ways you can protect your vehicle even in the absence of a garage or carport. 

Whether you’ve got a sedan, SUV or ute, you can invest in a hail car cover specifically designed to help protect vehicles in stormy weather. Standard options are designed to fit snugly over your vehicle, like a large polyester glove. These options usually have a padded, 6mm-thick layer to ensure paintwork is protected from sizeable hailstones. 

Then, there are inflatable car covers. These giant car bubbles or ‘carcoons’ not only help protect your car from the elements but also help ensure your car is well ventilated to manage condensation that can lead to corrosion.

Car covers that fit perfectly to your model can be purchased from local car dealerships and auto shops, and are well worth the cost.

It’s not just stormy weather that you need to watch out for. Too much sun isn’t good for your car, either. Prolonged sun exposure can cause paint and plastic to fade, crack and flake. The interior isn’t risk free either – upholstery and plastics in direct sunlight can bleach and fracture over time, too. Thankfully, there are a few options available to help. 

First up, sunshades for the interior. Usually made from light mesh fabrics or a reflective laminate construction, these protective covers are placed inside your vehicle (usually with little suction caps) to provide shade and protection against damaging UV rays and light. By blocking the sun's rays, these shields also help reduce the interior temperature of your vehicle for a more comfortable journey.

Next, consider physical shade for the exterior. Portable car shelters and tents are a great option for the summertime. Typically constructed from a hardy polyethylene fabric on a sturdy frame, these lightweight canopies can be temporarily erected to provide shade from Australia’s notoriously intense sun.

Washing your car as often as you can is your first line of defence against a build-up of dust, grime and salt water (if you’re by the sea). This is also true for car owners in places with a lot of pollution from exhaust fumes and smog. 

Use a gentle soap and give it a good lather and thorough rinse. Then, apply some car wax to help protect your car’s paint from harmful elements, like UV rays and oxidation. 

Feeling extra cautious? Professionals can help you out with ceramic coatings, vinyl wraps, and professional detailing that can last up to five years to help your car maintain its shine and vibrancy.

Once you know what you should be looking out for, it’s easier to be proactive. We hope you found our tips for protecting your car helpful.