Motorists have been told that parking their cars in one location could dramatically backfire, likely causing serious damage to vehicles. Parking underneath shady trees may seem like an excellent idea amid the hot weather, but it comes with its own problems. 

Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, stressed there was a risk that tree sap and bird droppings could fall onto bodywork, leading to damage. He warned that this would not only affect the appearance of motorists' vehicles with bodywork likely to be damaged. However, valuations could also take a serious hit with road users likely to lose out on how much they can sell their car for later down the line.

Urbonas said: “Most people don't realise that parking under trees can actually be one of the worst things you can do for your car's paintwork. 

“What seems like a convenient, shaded spot can lead to damage that affects both the appearance and value of your vehicle.”

Tree sap can be a bigger issue during warmer months, with the substance likely to stick to bodywork more firmly. 

Regularly inspecting vehicle bodywork is crucial to detect any sap spots as soon as they hit the vehicle. 

Removing sap as soon as you notice it can reduce the long-term effects and help maintain the pristine condition of a car’s bodywork. 

Urbonas added: “Tree sap doesn't just sit on the surface. It actually penetrates the clear coat and can cause permanent staining. In hot weather, the sap becomes more corrosive and can eat through the protective layers of your paintwork.”

Experts at Auto Glanz stressed that water and soap should be sufficient to remove fresh sap from bodywork. 

The specialists recommend that road users should apply Spar-Tar if the stain is stubborn and won’t come out. 

However, Urbonas warns that it wasn't just tree sap that can cause carnage to bodywork this summer with bird droppings another major concern. 

Stopping underneath trees such as in a wooded area or near a park is likely to increase the risk of bird droppings finding their way onto vehicles. 

As well as ruining the appearance of beautiful vehicles, the leading expert stresses the waste can cause "immediate damage” in a serious blow.

Urbonas explained: “The acidic nature of bird waste can cause immediate damage, especially when left in direct sunlight. What starts as an unsightly mess can quickly become a permanent mark that requires expensive paint correction.”