How to Keep Your Car Cool in the Heat
Summer’s here and the time is right for parked-car overheating. You know what we mean. You can’t find a shady spot, so you leave your pride and joy at the mercy of the blazing sun while you take a break to eat. When you get back, the inside of your car is like a furnace, hotter than a volcano, a shimmering haze of hot plastic, baking metal and skin-burning surfaces. No way can you go in there. So, what do you do?
Find Shade or Park Smart
Yes, finding a shady spot may seem obvious, but in today’s packed cities, really? It probably isn’t possible. If so, then park with the rear of your car to the sun, so direct heat is not on the dash, steering wheel and front seats.
Use Sun Shield
Forget that cardboard thing you got for free. Invest in a real sun shield for your windscreen. This means one with reflective coatings on both sides to reduce heat and UV rays. This will keep temps down and stop your dashboard plastics cracking like parched earth.
Gap Those Windows
Make it Rain
20 Seconds Rule
Air Conditioning
The Highlights:
- Interiors of parked cars can reach very high temps in the sun.
- Cool your car down without using A/C.
- Park in shade or with the car’s rear to the sun.
- Buy a good quality sun shield for your windscreen.
- Lower the front windows 3cm before you leave.
- Use a wet towel to wipe down the steering wheel and other surfaces.
- Leave the doors open 20 seconds when you get back.
- Keep A/C on recirculation when you drive off.
Sources & links:
Cool tips: https://wheels.ae/lists/article/3308/6-tips-to-keep-your-parked-car-cool-and-to-deal-with-a-hot-one
