Can a car be locked without turning off the engine?
2 Answers
A car cannot be locked without turning off the engine. Even if some models can lock the doors without turning off the engine, they will automatically shut down after locking. Even vehicles with a one-touch start function cannot lock the doors without turning off the engine. Since the car remains stationary for a long time after parking, the accumulation of exhaust fumes can easily enter the vehicle through the air intake. Methods to prevent forgetting to turn off the engine when exiting the car include: 1. Check the tachometer and display screen—before getting out, ensure the display screen is turned off and dark; 2. Adjust the steering wheel—when setting the steering wheel position, avoid setting it too high, so that the steering wheel will rise when the car is parked and the engine is turned off.
I think many new cars support locking the car while the engine is running, especially models with smart key systems. You can lock the doors by pressing the key or using the app after getting out of the car, which is super convenient. For example, when I'm in a hurry in the morning and need to buy breakfast at a convenience store without turning off the engine, I just press the key and it's done. However, be mindful of battery consumption and theft risks—always carry the key with you to prevent thieves from taking advantage. It's advisable to check the vehicle manual to confirm this feature, as there are significant differences between brands. Some older models might not support this at all and require the engine to be turned off. In short, don't experiment carelessly; if something goes wrong, it might be too late to regret.