Will a Vape Explode In a Hot Car?

Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high energy density, providing more power and longer run times compared to other battery types. 

Therefore, they are widely used in vape devices.

However, they are also sensitive to extreme temperatures.

While modern vapes are generally built with safety features like overheat protection and short-circuit safeguards, these systems aren’t foolproof. 

Under certain conditions—such as in a hot car—rare but serious malfunctions can still occur.

In 2024, for instance, an Alabama woman suffered severe injuries when her vape exploded while driving . 

In this guide, we’ll answer the question, “Will a vape explode in a hot car?” —exploring the potential dangers and sharing practical tips to help you vape safely.

Will a Vape Explode In a Hot Car?

A lithium-ion vape battery can explode when it overheats, and leaving your vape in a hot car significantly increases that risk.

On warm days, when outdoor temperatures range between 27°C and 37°C (80°F to 98°F), the temperature inside a parked car can quickly soar to 54°C to 77°C (130°F to 170°F).

If the vape is left in direct sunlight with the windows rolled up, the internal temperature can climb even higher, creating a hazardous environment for the battery and increasing the chances of thermal runaway.

What Happens If You Leave Your Vape in a Hot Car?

Leaving a vape in a hot car can be dangerous. Prolonged heat exposure can damage internal components, degrade vape juice, and—most importantly—put the battery at risk of overheating or even exploding.

Here are key warning signs that your device may be in danger:

Battery Explosion

All vapes require a battery to function, and these batteries are highly sensitive to extreme temperature changes, particularly heat. 

If you leave your vape in the car and it is exposed to the sun for a long time, the battery can overheat. 

This is known as the 'runaway' phenomenon, which starts with a short circuit within the battery. 

The temperature can then rise rapidly to over 500°C, resulting in fire and explosion.

Leaking Vape Juice

High temperatures inside a hot car can lead to vape juice leaks for two main reasons: first, the expansion of the vape tank under heat increases internal pressure; second, plastic components and rubber seals—common in many vape tanks—can soften, warp, or melt, compromising the seal.

These leaks not only create a sticky, hard-to-clean mess but may also cause skin irritation upon contact.

Component Damage

The heating coil—made of fine, heat-sensitive filaments—is particularly vulnerable. 

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause these delicate wires to warp, burn out, or break down entirely, often requiring premature coil replacements.

The Vape Juice Will Break Down Much Faster

Exposure to heat and sunlight speeds up the aging process of the molecules inside VG and PG, the two main components of all Vape Juice.

This results in a very thin e-liquid with a fairly bland flavor.

Tips to Help Avoid Vape Explosions in Hot Cars

To better ensure your safety, the following tips will help you effectively avoid the risk of vape explosions when using your device inside a hot car.

1. Cooling Down Your Vape

Start your car and turn on the air conditioning to cool the unit down as quickly as possible. 

Adjust to the best temperature for vaping, ranging from 14 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Cover Windows

Use sunshades on windows to block solar radiation. This keeps the interior cooler. 

3. Avoid Charging Vapes in the Car

Never charge your vape inside a hot car. The combination of high ambient temperatures and the heat generated during charging can significantly increase the risk of battery failure or explosion.

4. Carry It With You

Bring your vape with you when you get out of the car, and store it in a cooler, more stable environment to help prevent overheating and protect both the device and its battery.

5. Insulate the Vape

Use heat-resistant materials like an insulated bag or a cooler. This insulation acts as a buffer against the surrounding temperature inside the car, helping to prevent the vape from overheating.

6. Store Your Vape Safely

Avoid placing your vape next to metal objects like car keys or coins, as this can increase the risk of short circuits. Instead, store it in a secure, stable spot in the car to prevent damage and overheating.

7. Choose Quality to Stay Safe

Always purchase high-quality vape devices equipped with essential safety features such as  firing button locks, vent holes, and protection against overcharging

Avoid cheap, unregulated vape products that lack proper manufacturing certifications. These low-cost alternatives often skip crucial safety testing and quality control.

To ensure a safer and more reliable experience, consider trusted brands such as the Lookah Vape series.

In summary

So, will a vape explode in a hot car? While the chances of a lithium-ion vape battery exploding are estimated to be around 1 in a million, the risk still exists and should not be taken lightly.

Lithium-ion batteries, which power most vape devices, are sensitive to high temperatures and can malfunction under extreme conditions. 

Heat exposure, especially inside a parked car on a sunny day, can lead to battery overheating, component damage, and even dangerous explosions in rare cases.

That said, there’s no need to panic. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can significantly reduce any risk and safely enjoy your vaping experience.

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