Can a Car Charge While Running but Not Moving?

[LeBraxton]

Can a Car Charge While Running but Not Moving? A car can charge while running but not moving, but the charging current depends on the engine speed. Within certain limits, the higher the engine speed, the greater the charging current. The method for charging a car is: 1. Connect the positive terminal of the charger to the positive terminal of the car battery, and the negative terminal of the charger to the negative terminal of the battery; 2. Press the charging button to start charging. Precautions for charging a car include: 1. If the battery voltage is 10% lower than the rated voltage, it may lead to battery depletion; 2. Avoid water entering the battery during charging; 3. Charge the battery directly without removing it to prevent data loss.

[AdelineAnn]

I've been driving for over 30 years and have experienced all sorts of battery issues. The car can charge when idling after starting because the engine operation drives the alternator to recharge the battery. I often do this in winter myself to prevent battery drain and freezing, especially with older models. But be careful not to idle the engine for too long - it wastes gasoline and emits more exhaust, which is bad for the environment. Once I did this in the garage for over 40 minutes and the exhaust pipe started smoking, nearly causing an accident. If you just need a temporary charge (like when the battery is slightly weak), idling the engine for about 10 minutes is sufficient. However, I recommend regularly driving the car for better results - this charges the battery more fully and lasts longer, while also keeping the engine healthier with less wear. Remember to check the charging indicator light on the dashboard - it's fine if it stays on normally.

[MacJoanna]

As a young car owner, I frequently use my car for commuting. Starting the engine without driving can certainly charge the battery, as the alternator supplies power once it starts running. I often charge the battery this way when parked, playing music and using the air conditioning without worrying about draining the battery. However, don't do it for too long, as idling the engine consumes more fuel, pollutes the air, and adds strain to the engine. If the battery is in poor condition, it might not charge fully or could cause malfunctions. It's recommended to do this in an open area for a short time, no more than half an hour, while monitoring the interior temperature to prevent overheating. In the long run, charging while driving is more efficient and safer.

[HavenFitz]

From a mechanical perspective, the engine operation drives the alternator rotor to generate electricity for charging the battery. Therefore, the vehicle can charge while idling without moving. I learned this when studying auto repair—the engine power is transmitted to the alternator via the belt, eliminating the need for vehicle movement. However, prolonged idling is inefficient, wasteful on fuel, and increases emissions. In practice, idling for charging up to 30 minutes is generally acceptable, but always check battery terminals to avoid poor contact that may prevent charging.

[DelAdriana]

From a safety perspective, I believe the most crucial aspect is that you can charge the car while it's running but not moving, but carbon monoxide poisoning must be prevented. I only do this in open outdoor areas where the engine can idle and exhaust fumes can dissipate, as doing it in a garage or enclosed space can be fatal. It's recommended to limit charging time to within 20 minutes to ensure the battery gets adequately charged while avoiding the use of high-power devices like air conditioning, which can reduce efficiency. If the battery is aging, this charging method may not fully charge it and could potentially harm the vehicle. In such cases, taking a short drive is a safer and more reliable alternative.