We’ve all been there — you’re walking into a car that’s been sitting on the gas stove in the scorching summer heat like you’re going into a furnace. You open the car door, and heat spreads like a wave. The wheel is scalding, the seat literally tears your skin, the air inside is stifling. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it’s a threat to the interior of your vehicle and to your health. 

When living in a place such as India where temperatures can easily rise over 40°C during summers, air-conditioning your car is a necessity, not an option. Whether you are in traffic on the city streets or taking a long road trip, we all hate a hot car. But how do you manage the heat? Luckily, there are numerous ways you can shield yourself and your vehicle from the sun’s brutal heat. 

Imagine driving into your car from the outdoors for hours and not only experiencing the typical heat, but a cool, comfy interior. This can be achieved through a combination of sun shades, car covers and other smart strategies. These solutions will not only cool down your vehicle but also prolong the life of your vehicle interior and make driving far more enjoyable. 

We’ll be exploring easy-to-implement, easy-to-follow ways to cool your car during Indian summer. Whether you want sun shades or window tints, we have you covered. So, let’s get started and see how to stay cool on the road! 

So Why Should You Keep Your Car Cool? 

But before getting into the solutions, let’s have a quick overview on why it is essential to maintain the cooling in your car when we are in India – 

• Comfort and Safety – Overheating in the car can cause dehydration, heat stroke, and general grogginess if you’ve got children or elderly people riding along. 
• Interior Damage – Over time the fabric, leather and plastic in your car would wear out, crack, and fade from being exposed to sunlight. 
• Fuel Efficiency – The hotter your car, the more work your air conditioner needs to do which can affect your car’s fuel economy. 
• Security – A warm steering wheel or seat can throw you off-guard while driving, which can lead to accidents. 

1.  Shades from the Sun – Your Ultimate Protection Plan

Sun Shades are the easiest and most efficient way to keep your car cool. These keep the sun’s rays from coming into your vehicle, cooling your car significantly. 

Types of Sun Shades  

Sun shades are available in a plethora of styles, each with different advantages – 

• Windshield Sun Shades – These cover the inside of your car’s windshield and provide the best method to block direct sunlight. They come in various materials, from reflective to fabric. 
• Side Window Shades – They attach to your side windows and keep passengers cool. They also give you privacy and block harmful UV rays. 
• Rear Window Shades – If your vehicle has a large back window, you can use rear sun shades to keep the sun from frying the back seats. 

What Is The Best Sun Shade? 

When you buy sun shades, consider the following features – 

• UV Blocking – Make sure that the sun shade will protect both your skin and your car’s interior from the sun’s harmful rays. 
• Fit and Size – Get sun shades that match your car’s make and model for optimal coverage. 
• Comfortable to Use – Some sun shades are retractable or foldable, making them easier to use throughout the day. 
• Pro Tip – Reflective Shades  

Choose reflective windshield sun shades that reflect sunlight off of your car, dramatically reducing interior temperatures. They are particularly helpful when you live in areas where the sun is intense. 

2.  Car Covers – When You Park, You Stay Protected

Covered car covers are another way to keep your car cool, especially if you do not have a covered parking space. They offer another layer of protection and can be used overnight or during extended parking periods. 

Why You Need a Car Cover Benefits of Using a Car Cover 

• Heat Insulation – A good car cover helps to keep your vehicle at a reasonable temperature by shielding it from direct sunlight. 
• Dust and Debris Reduction – Aside from keeping your car warm, a car cover keeps dust, bird droppings, and tree sap out of your car, which is a common issue in India. 
• UV Protection – Most car covers offer UV protection to prevent sun damage to the paint and interior of your vehicle. 
• Shade is The Key – Try parking your car in the shade wherever possible, whether under a tree, building or car parking structure. Even partial shade can help.  
• Turn away from the Sun – Park with your windshield turned away from the sun if possible. This limits the amount of heat coming in through the large front window. 
• Crack the Windows – Opening your windows a few centimeters (or less) lets hot air escape, reducing the temperature inside your car. But do so at your own risk. 

What to Expect From a Car Cover 

• Fabric – Choose breathable, UV-resistant fabrics such as polyester or microfiber. Don’t wear thick, non-breathable fabrics that keep heat and moisture in. 
• Custom Fit – You can find universal covers, but a car cover designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model will protect and fit you better. 
• Waterproof vs Water-Resistant – If you live in an area that is exposed to the monsoons, opt for a waterproof cover to safeguard you from rain and heat. 

3.  Window Tints – Permanent Heat Protection  

Window tints are a permanent way to keep your vehicle cool. Because tinted windows prevent heat from entering your vehicle, they can keep your interior temperature down and give you more privacy. 

Benefits of Window Tints  

• Temperature Control – Tints will absorb up to 60% of the sunlight, which reduces the temperature of your vehicle. 
• UV Blocking – Window tints typically eliminate the harmful UV rays, which can cause damage to your skin and your vehicle. 
• Tinted Windows  – Tinted windows block the sun glare and improve the driving experience while saving your life. 

Types of Window Tints  

• Dye Film – The cheapest product and absorbs heat. It doesn’t reduce the heat, though, as much as other brands. 
• Metallic Film – More efficient at keeping heat away but not ideal for GPS and radio communications. 
• Ceramic Film – The most advanced and efficient, ceramic tints deliver exceptional heat and UV resistance without compromising electronics. 

Legal Considerations in India  

Remember that India strictly prohibits window tints. Make sure your tint complies with state and city regulations that normally want a certain amount of visibility to protect pedestrians. 

4.  Park Smart – Where and How You Park Matters 

In some cases, the easiest cures are the best. The spot in which you leave your car is what makes it really hot. 

Tips for Parking Smart  

5.  Other Cooling Accessories to Consider  

Along with sun shades, covers, and tints, you can use other accessories and devices to keep your vehicle cool – 

• Dash Covers – They protect your dashboard from cracking and fading and prevent heat accumulation. 
• Seat Covers – Use light-colored, ventilated seat covers to keep your seats from soaking up too much heat. 
• Portable Fans – Powerful battery or USB fans can blow air throughout your vehicle and provide immediate cooling. 
• Solar-powered Ventilators – They fit through your car window and are powered by the sun to blow the hot air from your car. 
• Bottom Line – Cool Down, Drive Carefully and Smartly. 

To keep your car cool in the Indian summer is not just about comfort, it is also about safety, protecting your investment and having a nice drive. Sun shades, car covers, window tints, and other cooling accessories are easy ways to get your vehicle cooled off without much heat and strain. 

Here at Mecarnic, we have a variety of quality car accessories that will help you withstand the heat. From auto-fit car covers to UV sun shades, we have everything you need to keep your vehicle cool and safe. 

Do you want to stay cool this summer? Check out our list of Car accessories on Mecarnic today and make driving easy!