How Bad Is It To Let My Car Idle For A Long Time?
You've probably heard it both ways with car idling. No, it's not harmful to let your car run for a while. And yes, it's bad. Don't do it!
Our Harrisonburg auto center is here to clear up those misconceptions. The truth is that car idling isn't really harmful to your car, but it does have consequences.
First of all, idling your car is a gas waster. Letting your car run for just two minutes is the equivalent of driving one mile. Worse, letting your vehicle idle for more than an hour will burn almost a gallon of gas.
So, unless you literally have money to burn, burning gas that's not taking you anywhere is wasteful.
Car idling burns oil. The longer you leave your engine running means the more oil that has to circulate and burn. That means more frequent oil changes.
It's bad for the environment. We all need to do our part to reduce the toxic load on our planet. And, choosing to let your car idle causes your exhaust system to produce more emissions into the air, which contributes to air pollution.
Equally concerning is how car idling, over time, decreases your vehicle's performance. It causes the spark plugs, head gasket, and cylinder rings to deteriorate and eventually stop working. And it drains your battery because the battery cannot recharge, causing it to strain.
Lastly, as a safety precaution, never idle your car in a confined space. Automobile emissions create carbon monoxide poisoning, which kills! Make sure the area is well-ventilated and open.
Harrisonburg Auto Service Tips for Avoiding Car Idling
To reduce the wear and tear on the environment as well as reducing fuel consumption and emission production, our Chevy certified mechanics recommend the following:
• If you're stuck in traffic, turn off the car. Traffic accidents or bumper to bumper traffic are grueling. But you might as well make it as easy as possible for both you and your vehicle. Chill!
• Roll down the windows. Or, simply go inside if you're waiting on someone. If you can't do that, let Mother Nature do the talking. Roll down those windows and enjoy a breeze.
• Upgrade to a hybrid vehicle. Hybrids shut down the gasoline engine when it comes to a stop and the electric motor kicks in. That's a double win because it helps reduce fuel consumption as well as emission production.
Avoiding excessive car idling is just another way to extend the life of your car. Make it a practice to turn the engine off when you're not actually driving the vehicle.
You'll get many more years of service if you do!
From regular vehicle maintenance to car repairs, the highly qualified mechanics at Joe Bowman Chevrolet are there to keep your car in tiptop condition and on the road longer!
Schedule an appointment with us today! 540.908.2809