Rubber may be great for bouncing balls, but it can’t handle the heat like we can. Here’s what can happen when the temperature rises:
- Belts and Hoses – The heat can turn your car’s belts and hoses into limp noodles. They can get so soft, they feel like they’re made of spaghetti.
- Gaskets – The heat can cause gaskets to shrink faster than a cheap t-shirt. It’s like they’re trying to hide from the heat, but it always finds them.
- Seals – Seals can become as dry as the Mojave desert, causing leaks that can be a real pain in the you-know-what.
Rubber is a popular material for many parts of a car, including tires, hoses, belts, seals, and gaskets, because of its durability and flexibility. However, prolonged exposure too high temperatures can cause the rubber to degrade and eventually fail.
One of the primary ways that heat affects rubber is by accelerating the process of oxidation. When exposed to heat, the oxygen in the air reacts with the rubber molecules, causing them to break down and lose their elasticity. This can result in the rubber becoming less flexible and more prone to cracking and splitting.
In addition, heat can cause rubber to dry out and become brittle. When exposed to high temperatures, the moisture in the rubber evaporates, leaving it without the necessary lubrication and elasticity. This can cause the rubber to become stiff and more susceptible to damage from friction, impact, or stress.
Another way that heat affects rubber is by causing it to expand. This can be a particular issue in high-temperature environments, such as the engine compartment, where rubber components can come into contact with hot metal surfaces. The heat can cause the rubber to expand and distort, which can lead to leaks, tears, and other types of damage.
To avoid heat-related damage to your car’s rubber components, it’s essential to keep an eye on their condition and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.
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