Good timing reduces stress

Jul 21, 2026Mobility Stories / Safety on the road

Without air conditioning, it is torture to drive during the hot weeks of the year. To ensure that the air conditioner works perfectly and does not smell, a climate check is recommended at the start of the summer. Even in burning heat, the air conditioning should not be set too cold. An inside temperature of no more than six to eight degrees below the outdoor temperature has proven to be ideal. This ensures there is no excessive shock to the body when the driver exits the vehicle. It is best not to aim the cooled air directly toward the body as this could easily cause the user to catch a cold.

When it comes to clothing, it is best to wear light, airy, and comfortable garments. Sun protection mats and screens protect against direct sunlight. However, they may not be used on the windshield and the front side windows. “The quickest way to expel heat from an overheated car is to open the doors and tailgate wide for a few minutes,” says Thomas Gut, a DEKRA expert. “Keep the windows open for the first few minutes of driving, then close them and switch the air conditioner to recirculation mode, turning up the fan and reducing the temperature. Once the desired temperature has been reached, adjust the settings and switch back to fresh air mode.”

“Good timing can also help to reduce the impact of heat. Taking a long break at the hottest time of the day – by stopping at a cool service area, for example – ensures variety. Light physical exercise can restore the body’s balance and revitalize the driver,” says the expert. Excessive fluid loss causes tiredness so the motto on any journey in the heat is to drink plenty, preferably mineral water, fruit juices, and herb teas. Driver should eat lightly: fruit, salads, vegetables, and light snacks.

The expert warns strongly against leaving children or animals unattended in a vehicle on a hot day – even when stopping quickly at the store. “This could endanger life. Direct sunlight can turn a vehicle into a furnace in a short space of time, and this can be life-threatening for a child,” emphasizes Gut.