How to Keep Your Car Cool in the Summer
Updated on Jul 24, 2024
No one likes the idea of getting into a sweltering car on a hot summer day. At 70 degrees F on a sunny day, after about a half-hour, the temperature inside the car will reach 104 degrees F. For many people, especially those who are sensitive to extreme temperatures, this is simply unacceptable.
From truck sun shades to vehicle maintenance, there are several things you can do to keep your car cool in the summer. Keep these steps in mind to avoid stepping into a furnace after leaving your car outside.
Park in the Shade
This may sound obvious, but keeping your car out of the sun will help you avoid the dreaded heat. All that direct sunlight will start heating up your car in a matter of minutes, so look for a shaded parking spot whenever possible–even if you’re just running out for a quick errand. Excess sunlight can also damage the paint job, leading to cracks and fades that will ruin the appearance of your ride.
You may have to go a little out of your way to find the perfect parking spot, whether it’s outside, under an awning or inside a local garage. It may take you an extra five or 10 minutes to get to work, but your car will thank you in the long run.
Use a Sun Shade
Of course, parking in the shade is a luxury many of us can’t afford. If parking is tight, especially at work, it’s best to go with a car sun shade. They often come with laminate surfaces that reflect the sun so the interior of your car doesn’t feel like a portal to hell. Sun shades also insulate the cab, enabling you to cut down on fuel needed for heating or cooling the interior.
For more protection from the sun, use a custom-made windshield sun shade. Manufacturers will change the specifications of the divider based on the make and model of your vehicle and they easily cover every inch of the interior.
Hanging up a sun shade only takes a few seconds. Just keep it under the seat or near the glove box. This is often much easier and faster than scouting out a shaded parking spot–and, you won’t be late to work.
Crack Open the Windows
Closing up your car like a tomb is never a good idea in the summer. Some say that leaving the windows open makes it harder to cool off the car once you get behind the wheel, but that’s not usually the case.
Leaving the windows open a crack will help air circulate through your car–even on a hot day. This will also help you improve the overall air quality in the cab. Air conditioning tends to recirculate the same airborne particles through the air, so you should let in some fresh air once in a while. Be sure to swap out the air filter in your car as well.
For even more ventilation on a hot summer day, use a small windshield-mounted solar fan. It draws power from the sun instead of draining your car battery. The fan will help bring in new air to help cool off your car.
Keep Your Car Empty
If you have no choice but to leave your car out in the sun, it’s best to travel light whenever possible. If the backseat is full of equipment and gear, it will take that much longer for the car to cool off. All that excess equipment will absorb the heat from the sun.
Put your possessions in the trunk instead to free up some room in the backseat. You can also cover metal objects and other surfaces that tend to heat up in the sun with a soft blanket or piece of fabric. This will limit how much heat these items absorb when you leave your car outside for hours on end.
A small change can make a big difference behind the wheel. Limiting your dependence on the air conditioner will improve fuel efficiency. Staying out of the sun will also improve the overall appearance of your vehicle. Use these tips to keep the interior of your car the perfect temperature all summer long.
Shop Now
Husky Liners is your source for automotive protection parts and accessories to enhance your personal or fleet vehicle for all of life's adventures.
Consoles and Organizers | Bug Shields | Rocker Panels | Wheel Well Liners | Vent Visors