The tips include the approval of a viral TikTok 'hack' - which is simply to fan your car door multiple times before getting in. Autotrader's experts explain the science behind why this door fanning trick actually works at cooling down your car quickly.

@pushingpistons This #HeatWave is brutal- here’s how to expel heat from your car FAST. #NAPApartner #teamNAPA #cartok #cartips ♬ original sound - pushing pistons

Top Tips for Cooling Your Car Fast

1. Fan your car doors when safe to do so

'Fanning' your car door is a tip that has gained some traction on TikTok and Autotrader's motoring experts back it up as an effective way to keep your cabin cool and make your commute more comfortable, even in a heatwave. It might look odd but opening and closing your car door a few times can physically push the hot air out of the cabin before you even turn the engine on.

2. Use air re-circulation smartly

Set your air conditioning to blow through the lower vents. Since hot air rises, this pushes warm air up and out faster. Once the car has cooled down, switch to recirculating the air inside the car. This prevents your system from pulling in new hot air from outside.

3. Declutter your cabin

To beat the heat behind the wheel, the inside of your car matters. Dark leather seats, heavy floor mats and plastic accessories can retain heat. When possible, use light fabric covers and remove unnecessary items to help the cabin area cool faster.

4. Leave windows ajar

If safe, leave your windows slightly open while parked to let hot air escape naturally rather than building up pressure inside the car. Tilted sunroofs can also help vent trapped heat.

5. Use sunshades, reflective screens or tinted windows

Windscreen sunshades, reflective screens, and rear window tints deflect sunlight and lower internal temperatures. If you don’t have them and can’t find a parking space that’s fully shaded, try finding a spot that at least shields the dashboard, it makes a noticeable difference.

6. Pre-condition the car using an app

Many newer car models now allow you to cool the cabin remotely before getting in. You can usually schedule this using the car’s app so it’s chilled and ready when you are.

Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Autotrader, comments: "As heatwaves become more frequent, drivers are having to think about how to manage rising temperatures both safely and comfortably. Features like pre-conditioning, air recirculation, and smart climate control are increasingly common in newer vehicles, and can make an instant difference”.