Should Car Windows Be Left Slightly Open in Summer?
2 Answers
It is advisable to leave a small gap in the car window when parked during summer to reduce interior temperature. During hot summer weather, if the car is exposed to direct sunlight with windows completely closed, the interior temperature can rise significantly. However, leaving a small gap allows air circulation, helping to lower the temperature inside the car. Here are the benefits of leaving windows slightly open in summer: 1. Volatilizing Harmful Substances: This is particularly useful for new cars. New cars often have strong odors, and under sunlight, many harmful substances evaporate from the leather. If windows are closed, these harmful gases cannot escape from the car. 2. Dissipating Formaldehyde: High summer temperatures cause formaldehyde in car seats, carpets, and other areas to evaporate easily. If occupants keep the windows tightly closed for more than two hours, the formaldehyde levels inside the car can exceed safety standards.
In summer, I usually leave the car windows slightly open by a few centimeters when parking. This helps with air circulation and prevents the car from turning into an oven. Especially during midday when the sun is scorching, the interior temperature can soar above 50°C. Leaving a gap allows hot air to slowly escape, making it less unbearable when returning to the car. From my own experience, keeping windows fully closed accelerates the aging of plastic parts and seats. However, when leaving a gap, choose a safe location—such as a monitored area or a crowded spot—to prevent potential theft. Additionally, for long-term parking, slightly open windows can prevent stuffy air or unpleasant odors. Of course, always check the weather forecast—getting caught in rain would be a hassle. Combining this with a sunshade works even better. Overall, I do this daily, and it feels much more comfortable.
