How to Keep Cool in a Car with No Air Con

There’s nothing worse than climbing into your car on a sweltering summer’s day, only to discover your air con’s not working. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or setting off on a long motorway journey, driving without air conditioning can quickly become uncomfortable, and even dangerous in extreme heat (though we’re lucky not to have many deserts in the UK).

While the best long-term solution is to get your car’s air con fixed, there are still plenty of ways to stay relatively cool in the meantime. Here’s what you need to know.

Why your air con might not be working

Before we dive into tips and tricks, let’s touch on the common reasons your air con might not be blowing cold air. It could be due to:

• Low refrigerant levels – a common issue solved with an air con regas.
• Compressor or fan failure - which can stop the cooling process entirely.
• Electrical issues or leaks in the system.

If your A/C is blowing warm air or making strange noises, don’t ignore it. For a much deeper look at potential issues, check out our blog on why your air con isn't cold.

Quick fixes stay cool without air con

When your car’s air con gives out and you still need to drive, try these simple solutions to stay as comfortable as possible.

1. Use window positioning to your advantage

Cracking your windows open can help create airflow, but the key is to position them strategically. Open diagonally opposite windows slightly (for example, front left and rear right) to encourage cross-ventilation and reduce heat buildup. 

Crucially, you should avoid driving with all the windows down at high speeds because this can create drag and increase fuel consumption.

2. Invest in reflective sunshades

When parked, your car can turn into an oven in a matter of minutes. So, using a reflective sunshade on your windscreen can significantly lower the interior temperature. 

Sunshades are the silver things that block direct sunlight and help protect your dashboard and upholstery from UV damage. You can find them relatively affordably in many auto retail shops, as well as on online marketplaces like Amazon.

3. Drive during cooler hours

If possible, plan your journeys during the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or late evening. Avoid peak afternoon sun (typically between 12pm–3pm in the UK), when inside temperatures can soar and when getting stuck in traffic can be hugely uncomfortable.

4. Wear breathable clothing

Your choice of clothing makes a surprising difference. Light-coloured, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can help regulate body temperature and keep sweat at bay. Avoid dark colours, which absorb more heat.

5. Use a cooling seat cover or fan

Portable cooling seat covers with built-in fans or gel layers can provide instant relief on long journeys. Likewise, a 12V car fan plugged into the cigarette lighter socket can help circulate air, especially if your radiator fan isn’t working and causing the car to overheat.

6. Stay hydrated

It might sound obvious, but drinking water regularly is vital. Keep a cool bottle in the car and sip often; dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even dizziness while driving.

For a long-term solution, service your air con system

While these hacks can offer short-term comfort, they won’t replace a properly functioning air conditioning system. If you’ve been putting off a service or recharge, now’s the time to act – especially before summer really kicks in.

Signs your air con needs a recharge

In many cases, the air con doesn’t just stop working all at once. It’ll gradually get less effective over time (unless a component has broken). Here are some telltale signs that your system needs attention:

• The air isn't as cold as it used to be
• It takes a long time to cool the cabin
• The system makes odd noises or smells musty
• Your windows fog up more easily
• The A/C light is on, but no air is blowing.

If you recognise any of these symptoms, it’s likely time for a regas.

Why regular air con maintenance matters

Much like the rest of your vehicle, your air conditioning system needs regular TLC to work efficiently and to avoid breaking down. But a well-maintained air con system doesn’t just keep you cool, it comes with some real benefits:

• Demists your windscreen in winter
• Filters out dust and allergens
• Helps maintain overall fuel efficiency.

A note on fuel usage

Many people worry about the fuel cost of running their car’s air con. It’s true that the air con can use a bit more fuel compared to not using the air con, but the difference is usually smaller than you might think. In fact, driving with windows wide open at high speeds can increase drag and impact fuel economy much more than a working air con.

Should I repair or replace my air con?

If your A/C system is blowing hot air even after a regas, it might be time for a more in-depth repair or component replacement. For example, in some cases, the compressor or condenser may need to be looked at by an expert. These parts go bad fairly infrequently, but that doesn’t mean they never go bad.

I can also help to understand the difference between air conditioning and climate control. You can find a deep dive on this page, but the short answer is that air con is the base technology, while climate control is a much more recent, modern use of air con in order to do things like keep the left side of the cabin cooler than the right.

If you’re unsure where to start with repairs, book a diagnostic check at your local Kwik Fit centre.

Book an air con regas today

With the warmer months on the way, there’s no better time to make sure your vehicle is road-ready. And, while it’s great to have a few tricks up your sleeve for those no-air con days, the absolute best way to beat the heat is with a properly functioning air con system.

Luckily, the experts at your local Kwik Fit centre are always on hand to help with affordable air con regases alongside any other auto maintenance & repair service you may need.