How To Keep Your Car Cool in the Summer 

It is becoming more important to know how to keep your car cool in summer as we enter the season’s peak months. There is a specific set of protocols in place to ensure your car remains safe as temperatures rise.  At Ontario Auto Center, we emphasize the importance of keeping both yourself and your car cool in the scorching heat. Whether you’re a current car owner or looking for a new or used car, we’ll share nine practical tips to help you keep your car cool during summer and ensure that you can have continuously pleasant driving experiences.

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1. Use a Sunshade or Window Visor

A very simple yet effective method of keeping your car cool in summer is by using a sunshade or window visor. A window visor works to block direct sunlight and significantly reduces the temperature inside your vehicle. By placing a sunshade on your windshield when you park your car, you can prevent the sun’s rays from turning your car into a sauna. For added protection, consider using a rear window sunshade as well. This is one of the cheap, easy, and efficient gadgets to keep your car cool during summer.

2. Tint Your Windows

Window tinting is another excellent way to keep your car cool in summer. Tinted windows reduce the amount of heat that enters your car by reflecting a portion of the sun’s rays. This not only helps in keeping the car cooler but also protects the interior from UV damage, which can cause fading and cracking over time. Be sure to be wary of your state’s window tinting laws. For states with stricter laws, consider lighter but equally as effective UV blocking tints for protection. 

3. Park Smart

Where you choose to park can have a significant impact on your car’s temperature. Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. Parking under trees, in covered parking lots, or in garages can help keep your car cooler. If shade is not available, try to park with the rear of your car facing the sun. This will prevent the dashboard and steering wheel from absorbing too much heat, making the interior slightly cooler when you return. 

Additionally, leaving your windows slightly cracked can help ventilate your car and prevent heat buildup. It is important, however, to be cautious when doing this because of security concerns. Ensure that the gap is small enough to prevent anyone from gaining access to your vehicle.

4. Use a Dashboard Cover

A dashboard cover is another practical gadget to keep your car cool in summer. By covering your dashboard, you can protect it from the intense heat and UV rays that can cause it to crack and fade. A dashboard cover also reduces the amount of heat radiating from the dashboard, keeping the interior of your car cooler. Choose a light-colored cover for the best results, as darker colors tend to absorb more heat.

5. Cover Your Seats

Leather and vinyl seats can become uncomfortably hot when exposed to direct sunlight. To keep your seats cool, use seat covers or place towels over them when parking your car. Light-colored seat covers reflect heat better than darker ones, so they are a good choice for keeping your car cool. If you have leather seats, consider using a leather conditioner regularly to prevent cracking and fading caused by the heat.

6. Keep Your Car Ventilated

Proper ventilation is a great strategy on how to keep your car cool in summer. Before starting your drive, open your doors as a method to let the hot air escape. Once you’re on the road, use your air conditioning efficiently by starting with the windows down and the A/C on full blast. After a minute or two, roll up the windows to trap the cool air inside. For cars equipped with a sunroof, you can also open it slightly to allow hot air to escape while the car is parked. 

Many modern vehicles come with a feature known as “auto start” or “remote start,” which allows you to start your car and A/C before you get inside. This is a great way to cool down your car before you even open the door. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider exploring models with this feature at Ontario Auto Center.

7. Invest in Cooling Seat Covers

Cooling seat covers can be a game changer for those living in extremely hot areas. These covers are designed with built-in fans or cooling elements that help regulate the temperature of your seats. They plug into your car’s power outlet and can provide immediate relief from the heat. This is especially useful if your car takes a while to cool down or if you frequently drive long distances in the summer heat. 

8. Keep Your Car’s Interior Organized

Believe it or not, clutter inside your car can contribute to heat buildup. Items left on the dashboard or seats, especially those made of metal or plastic, can absorb heat and make the interior hotter. Keep your car’s interior organized and free of unnecessary items to reduce the amount of heat it absorbs. This will not only make your car cooler but also enhance your driving experience. 

9. Plan Your Trips Wisely

Finally, planning your trips during cooler parts of the day can help you avoid the worst of the summer heat. Early mornings and late evenings are generally cooler, so try to schedule your drives during these times when possible. If you must drive during the heat of the day, use the tips mentioned above to keep your car as cool as possible. 

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Conclusion 

The summer heat can oftentimes be unforgiving, but with the right strategies, you can keep your car cool in summer regardless of the higher temperatures. Whether you’re looking for a new car or used car, Ontario Auto Center has a wide range of vehicles equipped with features that can help beat the heat. From sunshades and window tinting to cooling seat covers and remote start systems, there are many ways to protect your car from the summer sun. For more information on keeping your car cool during summer or to explore our extensive inventory, contact us today. Whether you need to schedule service or have any questions, we’re here to help. Keep cool and drive safely!