Car Air‑Conditioning Safety Recommendations Amid Heatwave

Experts advise keeping car interior temperatures between 22 °C and 25 °C and avoiding overly cold settings, especially when outside temperatures exceed 40 °C. The GTÜ recommends raising the AC temperature in extreme heat to prevent a temperature shock when exiting the vehicle.

Drivers should start the engine, set the AC to maximum cooling briefly, and activate the recirculation mode to chill interior air before pulling in hot outside air. Afterward, doors should be opened and the cabin ventilated. Directing vents onto the face or body should be avoided, as it can cause muscle tension, dry mucous membranes and increase the risk of circulatory problems or colds, according to the ADAC.