When temperatures soar and car interiors feel like ovens, it is tempting to start the engine with the air conditioning already running. Mechanic Juan José Ebenezer, a popular voice on social media, warns that the habit can put unnecessary strain on a vehicle over time.
Ebenezer recommends switching off the climate control before turning off the car, then leaving it off when starting the engine. He advises waiting a few seconds before turning the air conditioning back on, reducing the load as the engine starts and the vehicle’s systems settle. This may matter more in older cars or vehicles with a weak battery; the precise effect depends on the car’s design and condition.
Understanding the Mechanic’s Advice
Many modern cars use electronic climate controls and compressor systems that manage when the air-conditioning compressor engages. A brief increase in electrical and mechanical demand can occur when it switches on, but that does not mean starting with the AC on will necessarily cause damage. Ebenezer’s approach is a precaution, particularly for vehicles that may be more sensitive to the extra startup load. Drivers should follow the instructions in their vehicle’s handbook.
Another practical tip is to turn off the air conditioning a few minutes before reaching your destination. This lets the ventilation system keep moving air while condensation remains on the evaporator and nearby components after cooling. Residual moisture can contribute to musty odors, though how quickly the system dries depends on the vehicle and conditions such as humidity or airflow.
Heat and Tire Pressure: A Hidden Risk
Summer heat affects more than comfort; it also changes tire pressure. The air inside a tire warms as temperatures rise and while the vehicle is being driven, so a pressure reading taken immediately after a journey may be higher than one taken when the tire is cold. Do not release air from a hot tire based on that reading. Check pressures when the tires are cold and use the figures specified by the vehicle manufacturer, found on the driver’s door placard or in the handbook. Some models also list them near the fuel filler. Incorrect pressure can affect grip and braking, while contributing to uneven tread wear.
Keeping Cool Without Compromising Safety
Inside a parked car under the Spanish sun, cabin temperatures can easily exceed 60°C. The DGT, Spain’s traffic authority, warns that heat can increase fatigue and slow reaction times, making it harder to concentrate. Before setting off, open the windows to air out the cabin; a target temperature of 22°C to 24°C can help keep it comfortable. At the start of a journey, running the AC briefly with the windows open helps expel trapped hot air.
On longer trips, take regular breaks and stay hydrated, choosing a shaded spot when you park. Never leave children, elderly passengers or animals inside a stationary vehicle, even for a short time.
Some drivers seeking alternative ways to stay cool during heatwaves have found relief in traditional methods such as the so-called Egyptian Method, which focuses on cooling the body at night without relying on air conditioning. More practical tips can be found in this guide to beating the summer heat without AC.
As Spain’s summers grow hotter, small changes in driving habits, such as managing air conditioning and checking tire pressure when the tires are cold, can help protect comfort and support vehicle maintenance.
