Long, sun-baked journeys and baking heat can turn your car into an oven. But with a few simple steps, you can keep the cabin temperature manageable and enjoy a more comfortable ride during the warmer months. Here are some tried-and-tested hints and tips for UK drivers eager to beat the heat.

1. Choose your parking spot wisely

Seek shade where possible. Even a few hours under a tree or beside a building can make a noticeable difference to cabin temperatures.

Face east or west. If you park facing east in the evening, your windscreen won’t be under direct sunlight at dawn, and vice versa in the morning.

Avoid tarmac hotspots. Dark surfaces absorb more heat. Gravel car parks or grass verges can keep things cooler underfoot (and undercarriage).

2. Use sun-shields and window visors

Windshield sun-shields. A reflective windscreen protector is a low-cost way to block incoming rays and is easily stowed in the glovebox.

Side-window visors. These handy attachments clip onto your door frames, shading side windows without blocking airflow when the windows are cracked.

Rear blinds for hatchbacks. If you have a hatchback or estate, a removable blind can keep the boot area cooler, especially if you carry pets or groceries.

3. Ventilate before you set off

‘Dash-out’ technique. Open all doors or windows for 30–60 seconds before starting the engine. This pushes out the hottest air and replaces it with cooler outside air.

Fan-start trick. Switch on your fan to full blast before turning on the air-con. Once air-con kicks in, it’ll cool the cabin faster by re-circulating air rather than continually churning hot air.

4. Master your air conditioning

Use ‘recirculate’ judiciously. Recirculation mode cools more efficiently by re-using already-chilled air, but remember to switch back to fresh-air intake occasionally to avoid stale air.

Don’t blast on full all the time. A slightly gentler setting can maintain a comfortable temperature without placing unnecessary strain on the compressor (and thus your fuel economy).

Service your system. Annual air-con servicing keeps refrigerant levels topped up and prevents sluggish cooling on hot days.

5. Keep interior surfaces cool

Light-coloured upholstery. Dark leather or vinyl absorbs heat; consider seat covers in pale fabrics to reflect sunlight.

Steering-wheel cover. Leather steering wheels can be scorchers in high heat—an absorbent fabric cover can soften the blow.

Dashboard protection. A dash mat not only reduces glare but also shields plastic and vinyl from baking under the sun.

6. Stay safe with water and ice

Frozen bottles. Fill empty plastic bottles with water and freeze them the night before. Pop them in cool boxes to keep drinks chilled and serve double duty as makeshift ice packs for the glovebox.

Portable coolers. Small, 12V-powered coolers plug into your cigarette lighter and keep sandwiches, snacks and beverages pleasantly cool on longer trips.

7. Plan your journey timing

Avoid peak heat. Whenever possible, drive early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.

Use weather apps. UK summers can be unpredictable—plan around heatwaves to minimise discomfort and reduce the load on your car’s cooling systems.

8. Simple maintenance for summer

Check coolant and oil. A well-maintained engine runs cooler. Top up coolant levels and ensure oil is changed on schedule.

Inspect fans and belts. Radiator fans should engage promptly, and drive belts must be in good condition to keep the water pump working efficiently.

Tyre pressure matters. Hot weather can raise tyre pressure; check and adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure optimal performance and safety.

9. De-humidify the cabin

Silica-gel pouches. Small desiccant packs under seats can reduce moisture and prevent the ‘swampy’ smell when you next turn on the air-con.

Ventilate after rain. If moisture builds up inside during wet weather, crack a window slightly to let humidity escape.

10. Little extras for extra comfort

UV-blocking film. Professionally fitted window film can cut UV rays by up to 99%, protect your skin and keep interior surfaces cooler.

Cooling seat cushions. Gel-filled or ventilated cushions can reduce heat transfer and provide extra comfort on long drives.

Sun hats and sunglasses. Not strictly car-centric, but keeping yourself cool and glare-free adds to overall driving comfort.

With these straightforward measures, you’re well on your way to a cooler, more comfortable summer driving experience. A little preparation goes a long way—so next time the mercury climbs, you and your car will be ready to beat the heat. Safe travels!