Keep your car cool during Long-Term Parking at Australian airports

If you’re heading on a long trip and leaving your car in an airport parking lot, particularly in the Australian summer, protecting your car from heat damage is essential. Long-term exposure to the harsh sun can harm both the interior and exterior of your car. Here are some rearranged tips to ensure your vehicle stays in great shape while you’re away.

Find some shade or opt for covered parking

One of the simplest ways to protect your car is to park it in a shaded area. If natural shade isn’t available, covered parking at airports like Melbourne, Brisbane, or Sydney is an excellent option. Covered parking shields your car from direct sunlight, reducing the chances of tyre damage, faded paint, or overheated interiors. If covered parking is unavailable, consider using a high-quality car cover to provide UV protection for the entire vehicle.

Prep your tyres

High temperatures can wreak havoc on your tyres. The air inside them expands in the heat, increasing pressure by 1–2 PSI for every 10°C rise in temperature. Before parking your car for an extended period, slightly reduce the tyre pressure to prevent overinflation. Just ensure you top them up to the correct pressure before driving again. Proper pressure also prevents flat spots from forming while the car is stationary.

Open the windows slightly for ventilation

Leaving your windows slightly cracked open improves airflow and prevents excessive heat build-up inside the car. However, this should only be done if you’re parking in a secure lot, such as those with surveillance cameras or patrols at Australian airports. While this tip can help, the risk of theft should be weighed carefully.

Use a windshield sun shade

If covered parking isn’t an option, a reflective windshield sun shade can help. These shades deflect sunlight and reduce the amount of UV radiation that enters your car. This keeps the interior cooler and protects elements like the dashboard and steering wheel from heat damage. While not a complete solution, it’s a simple and cost-effective way to protect your car.

Keep your car clean

Before leaving your car, clean it thoroughly, both inside and out. Wash and wax the exterior to add a protective layer against UV rays. Inside, remove all food and drink items to prevent bad odours and potential pest issues. A clean car is less likely to develop lasting stains or damage caused by extreme heat.

Cover the interior

Protect your car’s interior surfaces, especially if you have leather or dark upholstery. Heat can cause these materials to crack or fade over time. Cover your seats and dashboard with light-coloured blankets or specialised covers to reflect the sun’s rays and keep the interior cooler.

Consider window Tinting

While tinting your windows isn’t something you’d do just for a single trip, it’s an excellent long-term investment if you regularly park in sunny areas. Tinted windows can block UV rays and help keep the interior cooler. However, Australian regulations limit how much tinting is allowed, so check the rules in your state before making this modification.

Choose a secure parking lot

If you plan to leave your car for an extended period, ensure you select a parking lot with good security measures. Many Australian airports offer long-term parking options with security cameras, patrols, and covered spaces. Knowing your car is safe will provide peace of mind while you’re away.