Many people wonder why they shouldn't place a sunshade mat on the dashboard. The main reason is safety. The presence of a sunshade mat might interfere with the deployment of the airbag. Some might ask, "Isn't the airbag in the steering wheel? What does that have to do with the sunshade mat?" While it's true that the driver's airbag is located in the steering wheel, don't forget that there's also a passenger airbag, which is hidden behind the decorative panel of the passenger-side dashboard.
Therefore, it's highly recommended not to place a sunshade mat for the sake of aesthetics. In the event of a collision, if the airbag's deployment is hindered, the safety of the passenger could be compromised.
Is Using a Sunshade Mat Beneficial or Harmful?
Many car owners argue that while driving, a sunshade mat can reduce glare, thereby improving driving safety to some extent. In this light, a sunshade mat does have its uses. However, if the dashboard has significant glare, it's advisable not to cover the passenger side, especially where the airbag symbol is located.
Additionally, sunshade mats can affect heat dissipation. During summer, the temperature inside the car, especially around the dashboard, can get quite high. Most sunshade mats are relatively thick, which can hinder the car's heat dissipation, potentially affecting the operation of car components. Moreover, if the sunshade mat isn't specifically designed for your car, it might block the air conditioning vents, interfering with the defogging function.
