How Much Warmer Is the Temperature Inside a Car at Night Compared to Outside?
2 Answers
At night, the temperature inside a car is 2-3 degrees higher than outside. Normal car temperature: The normal operating temperature of a car engine is between 85-105 degrees. Methods to cool down a car: The basic method to cool down a car is to repeatedly open and close the driver's side door to help expel hot air quickly while cooling the interior. Opening diagonal windows and the sunroof together with the door can accelerate heat dissipation. Additionally, cooling sprays can be used for rapid cooling, and the car's air conditioning can be turned on to blow cold air simultaneously.
On summer nights when parking overnight, I often notice that the temperature inside the car is significantly higher than outside, typically by about 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. For example, after driving home from work and leaving the car parked on the roadside for a few hours, the outdoor thermometer might show 25 degrees, but the interior feels closer to 35 degrees. The reason is simple: the car windows act like a greenhouse, absorbing sunlight during the day and slowly releasing heat at night. Additionally, the seats and interior materials retain heat well, especially in humid weather, which amplifies the temperature difference. This has led me to develop the habit of parking in shaded areas whenever possible and opening the windows for about half a minute to ventilate before turning on the AC. Large temperature differences can easily cause heatstroke, so it’s crucial never to leave children or pets inside—it’s far too dangerous. Using dark window tints or sunshades can help reduce heat buildup. When driving in the city, pay close attention to temperature changes, especially during seasonal transitions, and always prioritize safety.
