Autotrader’s experts give TikTok’s ‘door fanning’ hack the thumbs up

This month’s heatwave has prompted many drivers to search for advice on how to protect their car from sun damage and overheating. In fact, “how to keep your car cool” is one of the most searched terms in the UK over the past week according to Google Trends.

Car leasing expert Autotrader has shared some practical tips to help motorists cool their cars quickly, avoid overheating their interiors, and make the most of built-in car features many drivers mistakenly overlook.

Top Tips for Cooling Your Car Fast

Fan your car doors when safe to do so
It might look odd but opening and closing your car door a few times can physically push hot air out of the cabin before you even turn the engine on. The tip has gained some traction on TikTok and Autotrader motoring experts back it up to keep your cabin cool and make your commute more comfortable, even in a heatwave.
Use air recirculation smartly
Set your air conditioning to blow through the lower vents. Since hot air rises, this pushes warm air up and out faster. Once the car has cooled down, switch to recirculating the air inside the car. This prevents your system from pulling in new hot air from outside.
Declutter your cabin
To beat the heat behind the wheel, the inside of your car matters. Dark leather seats, heavy floor mats and plastic accessories can retain heat. When possible, use light fabric covers and remove unnecessary items to help the cabin area cool faster.
Leave windows ajar
If safe, leave your windows slightly cracked open while parked to let hot air escape naturally rather than building up pressure inside the car. Tilted sunroofs can also help vent trapped heat.
Use sunshades, reflective screens or tinted windows
Windscreen sunshades, reflective screens, and rear window tints deflect sunlight and lower internal temperatures. If you don’t have them and can’t find a parking space that’s fully shaded, try finding a spot that at least shields the dashboard, it makes a noticeable difference.
Pre-condition the car using an app
Many newer car models now allow you to cool the cabin remotely before getting in. You can usually schedule this using the car’s app so it’s chilled and ready when you are.

As heatwaves become more frequent, drivers are having to think about how to manage rising temperatures both safely and comfortably. Features like pre-conditioning, air recirculation, and smart climate control are increasingly common in newer vehicles, and can make an instant difference.

Key spokesperson

Erin Baker

Auto Trader’s Editorial Director

CONNECT

"Leasing gives drivers the flexibility to upgrade into newer models that include these heat-beating features, without the upfront cost of buying outright. It’s a practical route for those who want greater comfort and better climate tech, especially in unpredictable UK weather."

Source: Google Trends, top 5 “how to keep your _ cool” UK searches. Data correct as of May 12^th 2025.

For more information, contact Autotrader x Propellernet PR team: auto-trader-pr@propellernet.co.uk

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