Parking next to the beach: an unnecessary risk that can be avoided

When the time comes to go on holiday, many people opt for the private car to enjoy a well-deserved few days, for example, at the beach. But the beach has drawbacks for the car that not everyone takes into account and that can cause problems. It is not that they are going to cause serious breakdowns in just a few days, of course, but parking the car in a beach area can lead to several problems if several things are not taken into account.

Parking the car near the beach can expose it to elements that can cause problems for the bodywork and even the engine and mechanics. The fact is that parking near the sea and the beach can bring the car into contact with sea salt and sand, two elements that cause very high wear and that over time can lead to breakdowns of varying severity.

When parking, you should park at a certain distance from the beach. This will not be a problem after a certain time, because many cars will already be parked and it will be difficult to find a place to leave yours. Joking aside, a greater distance from the beach sand can avoid risks, since the sea breeze can carry salt spray and even grains of sand.

This builds up on the bodywork and begins to wear down the paint. And, if the effect lasts a long time, it can end up affecting the bodywork itself once the outer paint has corroded. If the car has to stay parked for several days near the sea, it is advisable to cover it with a car cover. This will protect the bodywork and prevent the sea salt from acting on it.

In addition, it is advisable to park it with its back to the beach. Why? Because that salt and sand can seep under the bonnet and cause damage to the engine and other mechanical parts of the car. It is not something that will happen in a day, or in a week, but the accumulation of salt and small grains of sand can be very dangerous for the integrity of the car.

How to act after a day at the beach

Just as with skin, the bodywork must be looked after after exposure to sand and salt. After a day at the beach, or at least a couple of times during the holiday week, you should wash the car to remove the sand and salt from the bodywork. However, do not do it by rubbing with a cloth, as this can damage the bodywork. Washing the car with a pressure lance can be a very good idea.

As for the interior, it is important to place a sunshade on the windscreen to prevent the sun from affecting the plastics and fabrics inside. In addition, blocking the sun’s rays keeps the temperature in the cabin from rising and makes it more comfortable to drive from the start. It is also advisable to place another one on the rear window, which increases the effect of these sunshades.

We have already mentioned that sea salt and sand will not cause breakdowns or problems for a few days at the beach, but it is better not to take risks and to prevent them from acting on the bodywork and even the engine, by taking these precautions during the holidays.