Yes, keeping a car in the garage does make a difference in terms of protecting it from varying weather conditions. For example, if a car is left exposed to heat and humidity, paint can fade and rust can form more quickly.
So by garaging a car, it has protection from direct exposure to sunlight, rain, or bad weather spells which can all contribute to the deterioration of interior components and exterior surfaces.
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Will a Car Rust in a Garage?
Yes, a car can rust if it’s left in a garage, but this isn’t instantaneous. The rust can occur more quickly if the car is exposed to moisture and oxygen for long periods, which causes oxidation. These conditions cause the metal to corrode and reddish-brown flakes of rust appear on the car’s surface.
However, keeping a car in the garage doesn’t guarantee rust. So certain precautions should be taken into consideration. For example, if the air outside is cooler than it is inside the garage, the car will corrode a lot quicker. This is due to there being less airflow and a higher humidity level inside.
So I suggest car owners who tend to keep their garage warmer should try to keep the moisture levels down. This will help reduce the amount of rust that forms on the vehicle, whether this room is connected to the home or it’s a detached garage.
Keep the Temperature Consistent
To avoid rusting, I think it’s best to monitor the temperature in the garage and keep track of fluctuations. In addition to ensuring the vehicle is at optimal performance, any other items in the garage will have protection from temperature-related damage.
This preserves items and materials that require specific temperatures. It also helps to prevent unwanted pests or insects from entering the garage and the car due to extreme heat or cold.
Is It Bad To Put A Wet Car In The Garage?
It’s not the best idea to put a wet car in the garage. This can lead to the car not drying completely and moisture forming, especially in warmer climates. This moisture causes mold or mildew to grow and can create a musty odor.
The condensation from the wet car combined with the humidity of a closed garage in hot or cold climates will create a wet environment. This can also encourage the growth of rust on metal parts of the car’s surface.
Additionally, putting a wet car in the garage can be bad for further reasons. Because there is a potential growth of mold, this can lead to damage to the interior parts of the car. It can also lead to significant health issues if breathed in by the car owner.
And in cold climates, condensation from the wet car may freeze on the walls and floor of the garage, which creates an icy mess that can also be a hazard if not removed properly.
Is It Safe to Leave Car Running in Garage? How Long
Is It Bad To Keep Your Car In A Hot Garage?
It’s not ideal to keep a car in a hot garage, although the damage isn’t significant. However, extreme heat can cause a buildup of moisture, leading to rust and corrosion, similar to if owners leave their wet cars in garages.
Having damages either internally or externally isn’t good for the life expectancy of the car. Even if there is cold weather outside, and you want to keep the vehicle warm, a garage that is too hot can also cause the tires to wear out quicker and the battery can lose power more easily.
Moreover, hot temperatures inside a garage can cause the car’s paint to degrade more quickly. This heat has the capability to warp plastic and metal components, including brake lines and engine parts, which can result in costly repairs. Especially if this car is not used regularly, it’s more prone to issues.
And while a car can live in a hot garage, I advise against it. The extreme heat may make it difficult for the car’s air conditioner to run to cool the car when it’s ready to drive. This is due to the heat you will find in the cabin after its exposure to the high-temperature environment.
Consider Insulating Your Garage
To save on energy bills and avoid extremely hot and cold weather states, insulating a garage will help keep the temperature inside at a consistent and comfortable level. It can also help to prevent water vapor in the air from condensing on the walls or ceiling.
Techniques to heat proof the room can include garage door insulation, which involves a foam panel or aluminum ThermaWrap panel that you put on the inside of the door.
Insulated garage doors can provide several benefits, including helping reduce energy costs by keeping warm air in during the winter and cool air in during the summer, and maximizing a more comfortable atmosphere in the space.
In addition, this insulation will help block out noise, making it more peaceful if the garage has more uses, like a workspace or home gym. It’s a great way to save money and add value to the home.
How to Make a Car Last Longer Without a Garage?
For those who don’t have access to a garage, I highlighted a few ways to improve the longevity of a vehicle’s life whatever the elements.
Use a Carport Tent
If space is available, like a parking spot or outside of a home, carport tents are useful in turning that space into a portable garage.
They cover the vehicle and provide heavy-duty shelter against changing weather conditions. Because they are portable they are easy to store and take on the road to different locations. They also can last a long time if properly looked after for around ten to twenty years.
Interior Window Shields
These not only keep the temperature in the vehicle controlled, but they also protect the inside of the car from UV rays. These shields are an excellent choice in the summer.
Especially for older cars that don’t have the best internal air conditioning system, and are extremely hot when they’ve been sitting out in the sun. The window shields are there to protect against heat from individuals entering the car.
Paint Protection Film
Paint protection film (PPF) also goes by ‘car scratch protection film’ is a see-through layer of tape that goes over areas of the car that are more susceptible to chips, getting hit by debris and rocks. The film protects cars’ paint jobs and potential dents from flying materials. These can be more likely on fast drives on freeways.
Generally, precut paint protection film is put on by professionals. They’ll discuss with the vehicle owner specific areas that may need to have coverage. For example, if the car is front or back wheel drive, and which side is more prone to debris.
Use a Drop Cloth
Drop cloth comes in various materials, like paper, rubber, and plastic. These cover furniture or work spaces especially if the walls around it needs painting. I would look into fabric drop cloths that have rot-resistant fabric in the warmer months.
There are also more vehicle-specific versions called polypropylene car covers. However, these are disposable and are temporary because they’re so lightweight and may not last more extreme weather conditions.
Do Cars Last Longer In A Garage?
Yes, storing cars in a garage can last longer than those left outside. This is because garages are there to protect vehicles from several environmental factors. So whether there are extreme temperature conditions, fluctuations in weather changes, or exposure to dust and other airborne particles.
These can degrade a car’s parts over time. Additionally, keeping a car in the garage reduces the risks associated with parking cars on the street. These include an increased chance of damage from cars passing causing bumps. Or by individuals who can leave scratches.
Garages give cars a better sense of security not only from the elements but from the potential of being broken into or stolen. It reduces the theft risk, as passers-by and burglars won’t have access to the vehicle.
