On a hot summer day, the interior temperature of a car exposed to direct sunlight can rise very quickly and reach dangerously high levels.
Within just 10 minutes, the temperature inside a parked car can rise by 15–20°C (27–36°F).
After 30 minutes, the cabin temperature can easily exceed 50°C (122°F).
On extremely hot days, the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel can reach 60–80°C (140–176°F) or even higher.
The exact temperature depends on:
The outside temperature
The color of the car and interior (darker colors absorb more heat)
Whether windows are closed or slightly open
The material of the interior (leather, plastic, etc.)
Important Note:
Such extreme heat poses serious risks to pets, children, electronics, and certain materials. Even at an outside temperature of 30°C (86°F), the inside of a car can become life-threateningly hot in less than an hour. Always ventilate your car before entering and never leave people or animals inside unattended.
