These are all of the essential tips and car accessories you need for a cooler ride
South African summers are no joke.
With temperatures soaring well above 30°C in many regions, stepping into a parked car can feel like opening an oven door. Keeping your car cool in the relentless heat isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about protecting your vehicle’s interior from sun damage.
If you are looking for ways to make your summer road trips more comfortable, this is what you need to do:
1. Block the Sun with Sunshades and Window Tints
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your car’s interior cool is by using windshield sunshades. These reflective shields bounce back sunlight, preventing the greenhouse effect that turns your car into a sauna.
For a more permanent solution, window tinting is a game-changer. Not only does it reduce heat buildup, but it also blocks harmful UV rays that can fade your upholstery and crack your dashboard. Just make sure your tint complies with South Africa’s legal limits as authorities won’t hesitate to fine you for overly dark windows!
2. Upgrade Your Seats with Cooling Seat Covers
Black leather seats might look sleek, but in the scorching heat, they become hot enough to fry an egg, which is why cooling seat covers are actually a great idea. These ventilated cushions promote airflow, and some even come with built-in fans or gel inserts that absorb heat. If you prefer a low-tech option, bamboo bead seat covers can also help by allowing better air circulation.
3. Crack the Windows (Slightly!)
It might seem obvious, but leaving your windows slightly open when parked allows hot air to escape, reducing the overall temperature inside. Just don’t roll them down too much; you don’t want to invite unwanted guests (human or otherwise) into your ride.
4. Park Smart
Whenever possible, park under a tree, in a garage, or in covered parking. If shade is scarce, angle your car so the front windshield faces away from the sun. Since dashboards tend to absorb the most heat, this can make a noticeable difference.
5. Use a Solar-Powered Fan
For those looking for a more tech-savvy solution, solar-powered car fans help circulate air while your car is parked. These nifty devices fit onto your window and use solar energy to push hot air out, keeping the inside temperature more bearable.
6. Cool Down Quickly with these Air Conditioning Hacks
Once you hop into your car, don’t just blast the A/C on full power immediately. Instead, roll down the windows and drive for a minute or two to push the hot air out first. Then, switch on the air conditioning and set it to recirculate mode to cool the interior faster.
South African heat is unforgiving, but with the right accessories and a few smart habits, you can keep your car significantly cooler. From sunshades and window tints to cooling seat covers and smart parking choices, these simple tricks will save you from feeling like you’re stepping into a furnace every time you drive.
Looking for more car accessories? Visit Protect a Car today!
