Living in a warm coastal area is great for various reasons. Although these regions are popular locations for tourists to enjoy a relaxing vacation, residents get to enjoy the warm sun, sandy beaches, and gorgeous coastline every day. Coastal living presents a few challenges. The salty air and high humidity in Gulfport, Mississippi, can cause premature damage to your vehicle. Continue reading to discover how the coastal climate can affect your vehicle and what you can do about it.
Understanding Gulfport’s Unique Coastal Climate
Gulfport has a unique local climate that includes the following:
- Subtropical climate: Gulfport’s subtropical coastal location results in extremely hot and humid summers, with the high humidity intensifying the heat. While temperatures drop in the winter, they typically remain well above freezing.
- Significant annual rainfall: Another characteristic of subtropical areas is substantial rainfall. Besides getting more precipitation than most other U.S. areas, Gulfport also experiences frequent thunderstorms, flooding, and even hurricanes.
- Proximity to the Gulf: The nearby Gulf of America generates regular onshore winds. While these can make the heat more bearable in the summer months, they also make the air saltier.
The Impact of Coastal Roads on Vehicles
Coastal areas present specific challenges for vehicles, especially subtropical regions such as Gulfport, Mississippi. Regularly driving on coastal roads can impact your car in various ways.
The Vehicle Is More Prone To Rust
One of the biggest issues in coastal areas is that the humidity and salt particles can cause your vehicle’s exterior, undercarriage, and even essential components, such as the brake lines and exhaust system, to rust prematurely. Once the paint and coating are penetrated, the rust spreads quickly and can be challenging and expensive to remove. This means that even a tiny scratch or dent can lead to rust eating away at the affected component.
Humidity Affects Your Vehicle’s Electrical System and Interior
Gulfport’s climate can affect more than your vehicle’s metal components. High humidity means that there’s excess moisture in the air, which can significantly increase the chance of electrical system malfunctions, affecting essential functions or even preventing it from starting.
High humidity also provides an ideal environment for mold to thrive. Trapped moisture in your vehicle’s interior can lead to quick mold growth in areas such as air vents, seats, and carpets. This creates a bad smell and unpleasant environment, and can also cause serious health issues if left unchecked.
Impact on Your Brakes and Suspension
Driving on sandy and salty coastal roads can take a toll on your braking system. Besides an increased risk of rust, the sand and moisture can cause premature wear of braking system components such as discs, calipers, and pads, while placing extra pressure on your suspension system. Humidity and saltwater damage to your car can eventually lead to handling issues and an uncomfortable ride.
Sun Exposure Affects Your Paint and Interior
Gulfport gets plenty of sun throughout the year, which can affect your vehicle’s exterior and interior. The color of your paint can fade prematurely, while the plastic or leather on your dashboard, seats, and steering wheel may start to crack if you regularly leave your vehicle in the sun.
Protective Measures for Your Vehicle
If you live near Gulfport, Mississippi, the following tips will help you mitigate the impact of the coastal roads and high humidity on your car to prevent premature deterioration of its components:
- Wash your car regularly to prevent exterior deterioration: Since your vehicle’s exterior is constantly exposed to sun, sand, and salt, it’s essential to wash it regularly and apply wax or paint sealant to add an extra layer of protection. Since even a small chip or scratch can promote rust, you should check your vehicle frequently and repair any damage as soon as possible.
- Don’t neglect your undercarriage: Your vehicle’s undercarriage is particularly prone to rust, and its location can make early signs difficult to spot. Use special undercoating protection and inspect it occasionally.
- Test your battery regularly: Your battery can die when you need your vehicle the most, so it’s important to check it frequently.
- Avoid leaving your car in the sun for too long: Leaving your vehicle in the sun can affect its paint and interior. While keeping it in a garage is ideal, it also helps to park it in the shade whenever possible.
Engaging Local Expertise: Finding the Right Service Providers
Another important thing you can do to keep your vehicle looking and running great despite Gulfport’s coastal climate is to find a team of technicians with specific local expertise. At Turan Foley Chevrolet Buick, our certified technicians are not only trained in the specifics of your Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV, but can also help you protect it from the local elements. This can help you save money in the long run, as we can help you address issues early and prevent others from occurring.
Visit Us Today
Although living in Gulfport, Mississippi, has many advantages, you should keep in mind that your vehicle will need extra care to maintain its appearance and performance over time. From routine maintenance to more complex repairs, you can trust our technicians at Turan Foley Chevrolet Buick to do a great job every time. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you and your vehicle.
Connect with us
