It’s hot, really hot. And it just keeps getting hotter. Even thinking about getting into a car that’s been parked in the sun makes your blood pressure drop. More and more drivers are now looking for alternative ways to deal with this brutal heat without relying solely on the air conditioning. In fact, according to some traffic authorities, driving in temperatures above 35°C is comparable to driving under the influence of alcohol.
Well, a Japanese trick might just help us survive this heat, lowering the temperature by up to 10°C in a matter of seconds, and completely free! (And without having to turn on the A/C!)
The trick
We love home remedies, and this one is especially easy to do, all in the name of a more comfortable (and cooler) driving experience.
What’s the Japanese trick about?
It’s surprisingly simple. It consists of opening and closing the driver’s window repeatedly in a specific motion. With just five repetitions, part of the hot air trapped inside the cabin is pushed out. That’s it, that easy.
Why does it work?
The movement creates an outward air current, working like a natural pump to expel heat. In a matter of seconds, the interior temperature can drop by up to 10 degrees Celsius, which also means the air conditioning (if turned on afterward) will need to do much less work to cool the vehicle.
The danger of driving in excessive heat
The ideal temperature inside a car should be between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius. Once it goes above 30 or 35°C, the effects are alarming: drowsiness increases, fatigue sets in, reflexes slow down, and aggression behind the wheel goes up. Even the ability to read traffic signs can drop by 10 to 20%. So if you can avoid driving in those temperatures, do it.
A heatwave with consequences on the road
Aside from physical effects, heat also causes stress, irritability, and distractions. That’s why more and more experts recommend preparing your car before setting off, especially in June, July, and August, when parking in the shade becomes either impossible or a task for the brave fresh out of hell.
Tips to beat the heat
While the Japanese trick can make a big difference, it’s not the only thing you can do. Experts also suggest parking in the shade whenever possible, using sunshades in the front and back, and covering heat-absorbing elements with thermal protectors, such as the steering wheel or child seats. Of course, bring cold water for your trip and make sure your air conditioner is working properly.
Summer temperatures can reach extreme levels, so it’s best to have your car fully prepared before traveling during these months. Beyond comfort, it’s about road safety, and if driving in the heat increases accident risks, better not to take chances.
This trick helps cool down your car as quickly as possible, but the real key is to keep a cool head (even if it’s tough in this heat) every time you get behind the wheel!
Tricks you can use to beat the heat!
- Use a windshield sunshide
- Park with the rear facing the sun
- Place frozen watter bottles in a tray
- use a clip-on 12V Fan
- Keep your dashboard clean
- Cover your seats with a light blanket or towels
- Open all doors before entering.
- Use a portable cooling cushion
- Spray a light mist of water inside