The RAC has provided guidance on how to cool down your vehicle more quickly during a heatwave, with three measures that can make it feel less like entering a sauna. The tips are especially welcome as temperatures in some areas could soar to 40 degrees this week.
Tip 1: Fan the Interior
The RAC explains: "Open both windows on one side of the car and then swing a door on the opposite side back and forth a few times. This will help push the hot air out of the car." This method is designed to rapidly expel the stagnant hot air trapped inside the vehicle.
Tip 2: Start Your Engine and Use Air Conditioning
Starting the engine may seem counterintuitive, but the RAC notes it's necessary to "turn on the air conditioning." Switch it to the coldest setting and "make sure it's set to draw air in from the outside, not recirculate, as the external air will be cooler at this point." Once the air feels cool, "close all windows and switch to recirculated air," which helps to "keep the cold air inside" the vehicle. This approach is also "more efficient."
Additional Advice from the RAC
The RAC advises parking in the shade wherever possible to prevent direct sunlight from heating the interior. Where shade isn't an option, position the vehicle so the windscreen faces away from the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, fitting a reflective windscreen sunshade can help block solar radiation and reduce temperatures on the dashboard and steering wheel.
Reactions from Motorists
In the comments, one user wrote: "The worst part isn't the drive... it's touching the steering wheel after it's been sat in the sun." One woman joked: "I tried that door swingy thing in my driveway this morning, my neighbour looked at me and rolled his eyes! Another neighbour did the curtain twitchy thing. I looked like a complete madwoman! Right now they feel sorry for my husband!!" Some motorists expressed frustration at not having air conditioning, remarking it "must be nice" to benefit from it.
Have you tried these tips? Did they work for you? Let us know in the comments.
