Although Georgia may seem like the most humid state in the U.S., it actually ranks 17th with its 71.1- percent average relative humidity. While not the highest humidity, this is still pretty high. Here are a few tips to help you keep Georgia’s moisture from damaging your vehicle.
Know the Signs of a Moisture Problem
A car with excess moisture inside the cabin will most likely have foggy windows. Windows that are inside excessively humid cars can cloud up when the heat is turned on during cold seasons. Interior moisture can also freeze on the inside of windows during deep winter freezes.
Other signs that your car has a moisture problem include:
- Damp-feeling seats and carpet
- Sharp or musty smell
- Mildew or mold forming on carpets and/or seats
- Electronic issues
- Rust and corrosion of metal components
At 60 percent relative humidity, rust and corrosion are in their ideal breeding ranges. Your vehicle’s chrome, paint, and vital engine components may show signs of rust and corrosion when high humidity penetrates the metal.
Remove Any and All Wet Objects
Any moisture inside the car becomes condensed when exterior heat and the sun’s rays increase the temperature inside the vehicle. However, cars left sitting on both cold and warm days trap the humidity inside vehicles.
Routinely remove the following damp or wet items from your car in all seasons to lower the moisture levels inside:
- Damp swimsuits, towels, and clothes
- Wet umbrellas
- Damp outerwear and footwear
- Food and drink
Remember that an open can of soda or rotting apple is enough to cause moisture to condensate inside your car, so it’s important to remove excess items that can cause moisture buildup.
Air Out Your Car
Crack or roll down your vehicle windows on sunny, mild days. Air circulation helps remove moisture from the interior air. However, always ensure you close your windows completely when rain is in the forecast.
Roll down the windows when you drive to allow air to flow into your car or truck. Run the heater at the same time (if tolerable) to further dry out the vehicle. On cold days, run the AC for a bit after you have the vehicle toasty and warm. Your AC system can dehumidify air during both the winter and the summer.
You should also turn your climate control recirculating button or knob to the off position in humid environments. The recirculating feature keeps the same damp air recycling in your vehicle. When you turn the recirculating button off, you let fresh air enter the vents.
Clean and Inspect Vehicle Surfaces
If your car seats or carpets are damp from spills or rainwater, dry the fabric with a hairdryer. Keep the vehicle windows open as you dry the seats and carpet so moisture escapes the interior.
Gaskets on your trunk lid and windows should keep moisture out of the interior of your vehicle. If you’re having issues with moisture getting into your car, check your trunk and window gaskets for tears or missing places. Repair any openings in the rubber to prevent rainwater and moisture from entering your car.
You should clean any gunk and debris off the windows, window gaskets, and other interior components of your vehicle. Routinely wash dirt from the exterior of your car, too. Dirt attracts and holds moisture, so a cleaner car is a drier car.
Seek Help from an Auto Professional
If you believe humidity is affecting your vehicle’s wiring or corroding your vehicle’s components, seek help from a qualified auto mechanic. Serious issues with electronics or corrosion can be caught by the pros before significant damage occurs to your vehicle.
Your mechanic will likely check your air filter, heater, and other components to ensure there are no leaks coming into the car from bad or worn parts. They may also recommend products including dehumidifiers and auxiliary defrosters to help keep windows clear and the interior dry.
Get help with your vehicle’s humidity issues by contacting White’s Automotive Center today. Our full-service facility and ASE-certified mechanics can help you sort out humidity issues for a safer, more comfortable driving experience.
