A MOTORING expert has urged drivers to think twice about rolling down the windows whilst driving.

As the UK heatwave sends temperatures soaring, many motorists are ditching the air conditioning to save fuel and opting to roll down their windows, however what seems like a simple way to stay cool could expose drivers to a number of unexpected risks, from legal penalties to health hazards.

Kazimieras Urbonas, a motoring expert from Ovoko said: “In the heat, many drivers choose to open their windows to stay cool, but it’s not always the smartest option and depending on what else you’re doing, it could lead to bigger problems than you realise.”

Urbonas said warm air streaming into a car does little to cool the cabin in extreme heat. He said it can increase fatigue, irritability, and dehydration, impairing focus and reaction times behind the wheel.

He added that while many avoid using air conditioning to save fuel, driving with windows fully open, especially at higher speeds, increases aerodynamic drag, forcing your car to work harder and burn more fuel, particularly on motorways.

Urbonas also believes that drivers may be exposed to pollen, dust, and roadside pollutants by rolling down the windows. This can cause discomfort, sneezing fits, and distraction, particularly dangerous for allergy sufferers.

Urbonas adds, "If you need to stay cool without risking fines or safety this summer, open your windows just slightly to let air in without creating excess noise or drag. Before that, try setting your cabin fans to full with recirculate mode; it’s often enough to cool the car without overworking the AC.”

He further advised that with your windows down, loud music is more likely to be heard which could lead to police action under the Public Order Act.

Further advice on driving in hot temperatures can be found online.