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Is it Safe to Keep Your Car Idling for A Long Time?
Oct 28, 2019
Sitting in traffic on your way to work or waiting in the carpool line at your child’s school, we spend a lot
of time in our cars not moving. When the engine runs, but the car stays still, it’s called idling, and until
we all make the switch to Hybrid cars, it remains a necessary evil. But you can’t believe everything
you’ve heard about idling. We’re tackling some car myths today, so buckle up!
Myths About Idling Your Car
A lot of people have been told restarting is harder on the engine, or that engines need to warm up, but
the truth is, frequent restarting has only a minor impact on your battery or starter motor, and modern
engines only need about 30 seconds to be ready for a drive. Another common myth people hear is that
idling burns less fuel than restarting the engine, or that the car will overheat if it idles too long. With
today’s advanced electronic ignition systems, plus more efficient batteries and modern cooling systems
that ensure your car won’t overheat, if you’re going to be idle for more than 30 seconds, most experts
recommend turning your car off and restarting it when you’re ready to go. It uses less gas, and it’s easier
on your car.
Excessive Idling Can Be Hard on Your Car, Your Wallet, and the Environment
Over time, excessive idling can decrease your car’s performance, causing premature wear and tear to
your head gasket, spark plugs, exhaust system, or other engine components. It also drains the battery,
as idling doesn’t allow it to effectively recharge, causing it to strain. But the mechanical impacts are only
part of the problem. Excessive idling is also bad for the environment. It wastes gas and increases air-
polluting emissions. It also causes motor oil to circulate more frequently, burning it up and costing more
money for more frequent oil changes. If you spend a lot of time idling in line, it’s a good idea to have a
certified mechanic
regularly inspect your engine for wear and tear.
How Long Can I Let My Car Idle?
A car can idle for as long as your tank of gas lasts. But while idling uses less fuel than driving, it still uses
fuel, and releases harmful pollutants into the air. You can reduce your idle time by turning the car off
whenever you’ll be stopped for more than 30 seconds, or by minimizing the amount of time you spend
in peak traffic (either by adjusting your schedule or using alternate routes). And even though it’s getting
cold out, don’t waste time and gas “warming up the car” before you leave in the morning. After all,
idling is by far less efficient, and driving will get the heat going much faster.
Worried about excess idling? Spend a lot of time in traffic? It’s important to schedule routine
maintenance and vehicle inspections! The professionals at Poston Motor Co. provide trustworthy,
reliable service, every time. Schedule a service today with your local Cumming auto repair shop! 678-