Should New Cars Be Parked with Windows Closed or Open?
4 Answers
Open the windows. Ventilating a new car is highly beneficial for removing odors, not only eliminating the peculiar smells of a new vehicle but also allowing fresh air to circulate inside, which greatly aids the overall air circulation within the car. Here are some relevant details: 1. Benefits of opening windows for ventilation: Exposing a new car to sunlight is intended to accelerate the mobility of formaldehyde molecules, thereby helping to dissipate the formaldehyde gas retained inside the car. However, this doesn't mean the car should be left in continuous direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can accelerate the aging of interior upholstery and even release more harmful gases, which would be counterproductive. 2. Precautions when opening car windows: While driving, avoid opening all windows simultaneously as this can cause chaotic airflow inside the car. Small items placed inside the car can easily be blown over by the strong airflow, potentially causing damage or injury. It is also advisable not to open windows when driving on highways, as doing so is undesirable from various perspectives including fuel consumption, noise, and safety. Additionally, when using the air conditioning, it's important to balance the use of internal and external air circulation to ensure adequate air exchange inside the vehicle.
I've always believed that leaving the windows open to sun a new car is better. Within just a few months of driving a new car, that pungent chemical smell can be quite strong. Closing the windows and leaving it under the scorching sun turns the interior into a steamer—getting in makes you sweat and feel chest tightness. Opening the windows for ventilation helps quickly dissipate the odors, allowing air to circulate and reducing the buildup of harmful gases like formaldehyde. Keeping the windows closed for long periods under high heat accelerates interior aging, such as leather cracking or dashboard yellowing, leading to unnecessary repair costs. I’ve tested it myself: after sunning with closed windows, the steering wheel becomes scalding hot and uncomfortable to drive; with open windows, the temperature stays moderate, making it much more pleasant to enter. Safety is also a concern—a sealed space under high heat may increase the risk of spontaneous combustion, and ventilation helps prevent this. I recommend cracking the windows slightly when parked—it’s simple, hassle-free, and protects your new car.
As someone who cherishes their car, I emphasize the benefits of opening windows for ventilation. When a new car is parked under the sun with windows closed, the interior temperature can soar above 50 degrees Celsius, accelerating the brittleness or fading of interior materials like plastics and rubber. Opening windows allows heat to dissipate quickly, preventing high-temperature damage to component structures. Production residues in new cars, such as volatile organic compounds, tend to accumulate in stuffy environments, and ventilation helps naturally release them, reducing harmful odors. Keeping windows closed for extended periods may also lead to dampness, causing moldy smells or electronic malfunctions. In practice, I often use a car sunshade with windows partially open to aid heat dissipation, balancing protection and convenience. Doing this frequently during the first few weeks of owning a new car can extend its lifespan.
Opening windows is the best way to sun a new car. With windows closed, direct sunlight makes the interior unbearably hot and smelly; opening windows allows for quick ventilation, cooling, and odor dissipation. High temperatures can damage interior components like seats or door panels, leading to premature aging and costly repairs. Simply opening windows is an efficient way to protect your new car's condition. Maintaining airflow during daily use also reduces health risks.
