Can I Wait in My Car with the Engine On?

It is generally not recommended to wait in your car with the engine on for an extended period of time. There are several reasons for this:

Fuel consumption

Idling your car wastes fuel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, idling your car for one hour uses about a quarter of a gallon of gas. This can add up to a significant amount of money over time, especially if you idle your car frequently.

Emissions

Idling your car also produces harmful emissions. These emissions can contribute to air pollution and climate change. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, idling your car for just one hour produces as much pollution as driving for 20 miles.

Engine damage

Idling your car can also damage your engine. When your car is idling, the engine is not getting enough lubrication. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the engine components.

Safety

It is also important to note that idling your car can be a safety hazard. If you are in a closed space, such as a garage, the exhaust fumes from your car can build up and become dangerous. Additionally, if you are idling your car in a public place, you could be a target for theft.

When is it OK to idle your car?

There are a few situations where it is OK to idle your car for a short period of time. These include:

When you are waiting in line at a drive-thru
When you are warming up your car on a cold day
When you are stuck in traffic

However, it is important to limit the amount of time that you idle your car. If you can, turn off your engine and wait instead. This will save you money, reduce emissions, and protect your engine.