The sun is blazing, the pavement is sizzling, and your car feels like an oven before you even step inside. Sound familiar? When the temperatures climb during spring and summer, keeping your car cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s also essential for protecting your vehicle’s interior and mechanical components. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through unbearable heat every time you drive. With a few simple tricks, you can keep your car from turning into a sauna on those scorching days.
Use a Sunshade or Windshield Cover
One of the easiest ways to prevent heat buildup inside your car is by using a sunshade. A reflective windshield cover blocks out direct sunlight, keeping the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel from absorbing excessive heat. If you park outside often, investing in a high-quality sunshade is one of the best things you can do to maintain a cooler cabin.
For extra protection, consider using window visors or tinted film. These help reduce heat penetration while still allowing some visibility. And if you’re parked for an extended period, crack the windows slightly to promote air circulation—just be sure to keep them small enough to avoid security concerns.
Park in the Shade Whenever Possible
It may seem obvious, but finding a shady spot can make a huge difference in how hot your car gets. Parking under a tree, in a garage, or in a covered lot shields your vehicle from the sun’s direct rays, significantly lowering the interior temperature. Even if you have to walk a little farther, your future self will thank you when you step into a car that isn’t blistering hot.
If shade isn’t available, try angling your car so that the sun hits the rear window instead of the front. Since the windshield is larger, less direct sunlight entering the front of the car means slightly cooler conditions inside.
Use Your Air Conditioning Strategically
Blasting the A/C as soon as you start the car might seem like the quickest way to cool down, but there’s a better approach. First, roll down the windows for a few seconds to let the trapped hot air escape. Then, turn the air conditioning on full blast with the recirculation mode activated. This helps the system cool the existing air inside the car rather than pulling in new, hot air from outside.
If your A/C isn’t keeping up with the heat, it may be time for a checkup. Low refrigerant levels, clogged cabin air filters, or weak airflow can all reduce the effectiveness of your cooling system. If you’re driving in Reading, PA, and notice that your A/C isn’t performing as it should, it’s best to get it inspected before the real summer heat kicks in.
Protect Your Interior from Heat Damage
Extreme temperatures don’t just make your car uncomfortable—they can also cause serious wear and tear on your interior. Leather and vinyl seats can crack or fade, and plastic components may become brittle over time. To prevent this, use seat covers or a light-colored towel over your seats when your car is parked.
A dashboard cover can also help protect against fading and reduce heat buildup inside the cabin. If you have a leather steering wheel, consider using a cover or draping a cloth over it while parked to prevent it from becoming painfully hot to the touch.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Car Running Cool
High temperatures can put added stress on your engine, so keeping up with maintenance is crucial. Make sure your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating. Your radiator, thermostat, and hoses should also be in good condition to ensure your cooling system is functioning properly.
Tire pressure is another factor to consider. Heat causes air to expand, which can lead to overinflated tires and an increased risk of blowouts. Check your tire pressure regularly to keep it at the recommended level for safer driving during warmer months.
Is your car struggling to beat the heat? Visit Auto Pro in Reading, PA, for expert A/C inspections, cooling system maintenance, and more. Stay comfortable and keep your car in top shape this summer—schedule your service today!
