British motorists are being urged to think twice before leaving their cars beneath the shady canopy of trees, as experts reveal a catalogue of potential hazards that could lead to expensive repair bills.
While it might seem like a smart way to keep your vehicle cool or avoid the rain, this common parking habit is a fast track to a host of automotive ailments.
The Sticky Menace: Tree Sap
One of the most insidious threats comes from tree sap. This sticky substance doesn't just create a messy, tacky film on your paintwork; it's highly corrosive. If left untreated, sap can etch itself into the clear coat and underlying paint, necessitating a professional polish or even a full respray to rectify the damage.
Aerial Assault: Bird Droppings and Berries
The combination of bird droppings and fallen berries creates a potent, acidic mixture on your car's exterior. Bird excrement is particularly damaging due to its high acidity, which can burn through lacquer and paint in a surprisingly short time, especially in warm weather.
Physical Damage: Scratches and Dents
It’s not just chemical damage you have to worry about. Falling branches, twigs, and even large nuts can cause unsightly scratches, dings, and dents on your bodywork, windscreen, and roof.
Protecting Your Pride and Joy
So, what can you do to protect your vehicle? The simplest solution is to avoid parking under trees altogether. If you have no other option, consider these preventative measures:
- Invest in a high-quality car cover for long-term parking.
- Remove any sap, droppings, or berries as soon as possible with specialist cleaning products.
- Regularly wax your car to provide a protective barrier against contaminants.
Heeding this advice could save you hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds in avoidable bodywork repairs, keeping your car in pristine condition for longer.
