How to keep cool in the car this summer

Motorists are being warned to keep their cars cool at all times during the hot weather else risk breaking the Highway Code.

Insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk have named six tips for drivers to keep their vehicles fully ventilated throughout summer.

Under rule 237 in the Highway Code, drivers should keep their vehicles fully ventilated at all times to avoid drowsiness and danger behind the wheel.

If caught and charged with dangerous driving, motorists could face two years in prison, unlimited fines and have their licence revoked.

Anyone getting behind the wheel this summer needs to ensure they have a fully ventilated vehicle for the whole journey but with the ever-increasing cost-of-living crisis, running the AC for the entire journey is not an option for many motorists.

Fuel usage can be increased by 10% by switching on the air con even for short journeys.

Internal temperatures of cars can reach dangerous levels – studies have measured vehicles reaching over 50°C, even on a cooler summer day.

Yet with the rise of petrol prices in the UK, many drivers are reluctant to turn on their air con, opting to save fuel and money.

However, there are several other ways drivers can keep cool this summer without having to switch on the air con.

Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said:  “It’s important to make sure the car is fully ventilated throughout hot journeys or risk going against guidance from the Highway Code – putting drivers in danger of drowsiness behind the wheel and risking big penalties.

“For those with cars that do not have air con, or if they want to save fuel by not switching the cold air on, there are several cost-effective ways to ventilate the vehicle and stay cool in the car as temperatures continue to soar.

“Drivers can buy relatively inexpensive solar-powered fans to attach to the inside of vehicles or reflective screens to line the windscreen, keeping the heat out and reducing the temperature in the car before they set off.

“Drivers can also freeze water bottles to use as ice packs and to help them stay hydrated with the ice-cold water when they melt, or hang damp cloths over the vents to cool down the air.

“If motorists are hiring a car or in the process of buying a new one, the colour of the car itself can actually make a difference too, white cars reflect the heat and also tend to cool down quicker than cars of a darker colour, so worth bearing in mind.”

Here are Quotezone.co.uk’s tips on keeping cool and making savings this summer:

1. Choose your spot wisely

Watching where you park will help to stop the interior of the car getting too hot throughout the day. Leave your car underneath trees and overhanging bushes or find a large van or lorry to park beside.

2. White is right for keeping cool

If you’re buying a new car or hiring one on holiday, the colour can actually play a part in helping to keep the car cool.  White cars reflect the heat and can actually cool down quicker.  Lighter coloured seat covers can also help.

3. Invest in some cooling accessories

Drivers can purchase relatively inexpensive items such as pocket-sized fans to attach to their dashboard to stay cool and help ward off drowsiness. Sunshades can be bought to reflect the sun rays to reduce the vehicles interior temperature. It’ll also reduce the dashboard temperature and steering wheel by blocking out the hot sun – both accessories can normally be found for under £10.

4. Keep yourself cool and hydrated

Pop a water bottle in the freezer overnight, and in the morning wrap it up in a towel to stop any drips – it will help you keep cool and once melted, drivers will have ice-cold water to drink. Staying hydrated is vital on long hot journeys, dehydration can cause drowsiness – which is dangerous behind the wheel.

5. Plan ahead and take a break

Plan ahead and avoid the hottest parts of the day if possible, normally between 1-3pm. If the trip can be made early or late in the day it’s best to do so and play it safe. Also don’t drive for more than 2 hours without taking a 15 minute break to recharge, as recommended by rule 91 of the Highway Code.

6. Utilise what you have

Draping a damp cloth over the vent will make the air blowing through much cooler. Remember to take the rags out of your car afterwards to prevent mildew building up.  Leave the windows open if you’ve parked up for a summer picnic or doing some jobs in your front garden where you can keep an eye on your car.

For breakdown cover or to compare car insurance prices, Quotezone.co.uk can help.