Should You Leave a Small Gap in the Car Window When Parking for a Long Time?
2 Answers
When parking for a long time, it is best not to leave a gap in the car window, as it may attract thieves and lead to theft of items inside the vehicle. Here are the reasons for leaving a gap in the window: 1. Lowering the interior temperature: Studies show that if the window is left open while the car is parked outdoors under direct sunlight, the temperature inside can be reduced by up to 20-30 degrees Celsius compared to a completely sealed interior. Leaving a small gap in the window can effectively lower the temperature inside the car. 2. Reducing interior odors: Many cars have strong interior odors, especially when exposed to sunlight. Under high temperatures, the leather and interior joints release large amounts of harmful gases, including formaldehyde and benzene. If the windows are closed, entering the car will expose you to these odors immediately. However, leaving a gap in the window to maintain air circulation can effectively alleviate this issue.
As someone who has been driving for over a decade, I often encounter situations where I need to park for extended periods. If parked in a garage or a secure location, leaving a small window gap can indeed be convenient because the lack of air circulation inside the car can make it stuffy, especially in summer when high temperatures can lead to unpleasant odors or even mold growth. Additionally, if there are pets or children inside, ventilation ensures their comfort. However, it's crucial to be mindful of safety risks, such as theft if parked on the roadside or damage to the interior from wind and rain. I believe it's best to leave only a very small gap, about one or two centimeters, and only on clear weather days, while ensuring no valuables are left inside. For longer parking durations, using sunshades or car ventilation devices as an alternative is a safer option.
