Parking spot you don't want to put car in during hot weather – it's ‘the worst thing you can do' & could cost you £1800
With temperatures set to ramp up to 30C again towards the end of the week, drivers may be tempted to park cars under shady trees, to stop them from overheating.
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And although this may seem like a smart idea, Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko revealed that this could actually be the worst place to park your vehicle.
Tree sap damage
The car expert explained that if you park your motor under a tree it could get covered in tree sap or bird droppings.
And although this may not seem like the worst problem, it could lead to thousands of pounds worth of damage.
Kazmieras revealed that the sap and droppings will not only make your car look dirty, it will also likely damage the bodywork of your vehicle.
He added that this could also affect the value of your motor, meaning that it will be worth less when you want to sell it on.
The expert explained: "Most people don't realise that parking under trees can actually be one of the worst things you can do for your car's paintwork.
'What seems like a convenient, shaded spot can lead to damage that affects both the appearance and value of your vehicle.'
More of a problem during summer
Tree sap poses a greater risk in the summer months, as trees produce more of the substance during this time, and the hot weather bakes the sap on to cars.
It is a good idea to regularly inspect your car during the summer months, to check for any damage from tree sap.
Removing the sap as soon as you notice it will help to reduce the possibility of long term damage.
Kazmieras added: 'Tree sap doesn't just sit on the surface.
"It actually penetrates the clear coat and can cause permanent staining.
"In hot weather, the sap becomes more corrosive and can eat through the protective layers of your paintwork.'
How to remove tree sap
If the damage to your car isn't particularly severe, you can remove if yourself using household products such as rubbing alcohol, WD-40, or cooking oil.
To use these products, simply apply them to a micro-fibre cloth, and then gently rub the affected area.
Make sure to wash the product off with water, and then reapply wax or sealant to protect the paint.
However, if the damage is more severe, you may have to pay a professional to get the paint corrected, which could set you back as much as £1800.
The expert added that bird droppings can also cause serious damage to vehicles.
He said: "'The acidic nature of bird waste can cause immediate damage, especially when left in direct sunlight.
"What starts as an unsightly mess can quickly become a permanent mark that requires expensive paint correction.'
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