5 essential car gadgets to beat the summer heat

It is officially summertime here in the Philippines and driving can be an unpleasant experience even if your car is equipped with air-conditioning and climate control features. Aside from that extreme heat or humidity can damage our car interior that is why it is essential for car owners to invest some of our hard earned money in some car accessories that are indeed useful this summer season.

We at Philkotse.com are very much willing to share with some essential car gadgets to keep you and your car cool this summer.

1. DIY car tint kit

Tinting your car windows and windshield can help lower down the temperature that is inside your car. There are circumstances wherein you have no choice but to leave your vehicle parked directly under the sun, and this is where car tints come into the picture.

You can expect the inside of your car to be more relaxed as compared to having an untinted vehicle. If you are on a budget, you may opt for DIY kits or have it done by a professional. Make sure to choose high-quality tints just to make sure that it serves its actual purpose.

Steer clear from super dark tints because you might get pulled over by traffic enforcers

2. A pair of solar powered fans

This particular car accessory is starting to gain popularity here in the Philippines for the past few years. The primary purpose of this equipment is to get rid of hot air that is inside your vehicle by allowing cool air to circulate while you are out running errands or doing something significant.

You can position your solar fans by the front and back part of the vehicle and leave the windows slightly open. Solar fans are very much affordable, and you can purchase them online or at any car accessories shops.

Solar fans can also help reduce the use of gasoline, therefore, promoting fuel efficiency

3. Thick blankets

Keeping a few thick blankets can significantly reduce the temperature inside your car. Blankets are essential especially if your car seats are made of leather or synthetic materials that can be very hot to sit on.

If you are about to park your vehicle in a non-shaded area all you have to do is spread the blankets all over the car seats and uncover them once you get back.

I personally would like to recommend using thick fleece blankets for better heat absorption. Just keep these blankets in your car as they can also be useful during the cold season. Fleece blankets are sold at a very affordable price, and it is very lightweight.

One single sized fleece blanket can cost you only ₱200

4. Steering wheel cover

A couple of years ago I used to think that buying a cover for my car's steering wheel is just a waste of money because I personally do not find any significant use of the product. I mean why do I need a cover when my steering wheel is clad with soft leather right?

What made me change my mind about getting a cover is when I started seeing tiny cracks on my car's steering wheel just after two years of driving it and what caused the damage is excessive sun exposure.

Sadly the dealership told me that this type of damage is not covered by the warranty so I ended up spending a few thousands of pesos to have the steering wheel covers replaced.

>>> View more: Easy cleaning tips for 5 different types of steering wheel

I should have listened to what others are saying and saved money in the long run. Steering wheel covers are available in different sizes and material type. Its average price ranges from ₱350 to ₱5,000 depending on the quality and brand.

Steering wheel covers are available in different sizes and material type

5. Insulators or sun visors

These are one of the most essential accessories that every car owner should have inside their vehicle.  If you live in a tropical country like the Philippines, the summer season can really get the temperature rising.

Leaving your car in an open parking lot can cause your car to heat up even for just a short period of time. Placing insulations on your windows and windshield can significantly help in cooling down the temperature inside your car.

Sun visor helps shade the eyes of drivers and passengers from the glare of sunlight

Staying in a hot car can be detrimental to your health. Aside from the discomfort, it can cause your body temperature to rise to dangerous levels that may lead to a heat stroke.

People suffering from hypertension high blood pressure should also avoid heated cars as much as possible. It is better to take the necessary precautions and give your vehicle enough time to cool down before driving.

>>> Click to learn more useful tips for car maintenance