On sunny days, your vehicle can feel like an oven after sitting in the sun for a certain length of time — sometimes, even after just a few minutes. The reason for this is due to what’s called the "greenhouse effect." As sunlight easily passes through window glass, the dashboard, seats, and other contents in the vehicle absorb the heat, which thereafter has no escape. Temperatures can skyrocket to 150 or even 200 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in discomfort and even interior damage that could require help from a body shop. To counteract this, here’s a list of tips to help keep your car more comfortable on sunny days.

How to Keep Your Car Cool on Hot Days

1. Park in the Shade

This may seem obvious, but shade is the most effective solution to an overheated car. Before parking, look for a tree, building, or awning that's casting shade and park beneath it. Account for the sun's movement through the day if you'll be parked there for a while, as shade tends to migrate.

2. Crack Your Windows

Crack each of your windows an inch to allow the hot air to escape. The car will still warm up, but it won't feel like a furnace when you return. However, check the forecast for rain before leaving the windows open.

3. Have Your Windows Tinted

In Nebraska, nonreflective or partially reflective tint is permitted on the rear and side windows and above the AS-1 line on the windshield. Window tint blocks UV rays and keeps the car from heating as much. It also prevents upholstery from fading.

4. Use a Sun Shade

A sun shade blocks the sun from entering through the windshield. Choose one made of reflective material so it reflects the heat instead of absorbing it. Used regularly over time, a sun shade also prevents your dashboard from fading and cracking due to long-term exposure to UV rays. Thus, a five-dollar investment could circumvent the need for expensive body shop repairs.

5. Cover Your Dash

If you don't have a sun shade, you can protect your dashboard with a white cloth or T-shirt. White colors reflect light, while dark colors absorb it and turn it into heat. To limit the amount of absorption, place a white towel or T-shirt across your dash. This helps keep the car cool and protects the material from sun damage. Lay a towel across the steering wheel as well to make it more comfortable to operate.

Use these tips to keep your car cooler and more comfortable on hot, sunny days. However, if the vehicle needs body work or painting, you'll need expert assistance from an experienced auto body shop. For this, contact Tracy's Collision Center, based in Lincoln, NE. They've been serving customers throughout Lancaster County for more than 50 years and offer prompt, dependable work. Visit their website to view a map and business hours, or call (402) 441-4820 to schedule a body shop appointment. You can also find the company on Facebook.