Can People Sleep in the Car After the Engine Is Turned Off?
4 Answers
People can sleep in the car after the engine is turned off. Here is some knowledge about sleeping in the car: What happens when people stay in the car for a long time without opening the windows: The car is in a closed environment with poor air circulation. The oxygen available for human breathing is limited, while the amount of carbon dioxide released increases. Hazards of sleeping overnight in the car: When the temperature is low, it is easy to catch a cold; when the temperature is high, it is easy to experience oxygen deprivation. Muscle fatigue is also likely to occur. Poor ventilation can cause symptoms of chest tightness, and in severe cases, it may lead to suffocation. Reasons why sleeping overnight in the car is harmful: When the carbon dioxide concentration in a closed vehicle reaches 3%, the body will experience difficulty breathing, which is harmful to health. Therefore, it is generally recommended to open the windows for ventilation if sleeping in the car with the engine turned off.
I've had a few experiences of taking short naps in the car after turning off the engine, but safety must be prioritized. The most terrifying risk is carbon monoxide poisoning. Even with the engine off, if the parking environment lacks air circulation or there are nearby exhaust sources, dangerous gases can accumulate in the enclosed car space, leading to breathing difficulties or even loss of consciousness. I once rested by the roadside in winter with all windows closed and felt stuffy with a headache. Later, I learned to leave a small gap for ventilation. Additionally, weather plays a big role: in summer, car temperatures can soar like an oven, while in winter, it's bitterly cold, both affecting sleep quality. Parking location is also crucial—avoid roadside stops on highways or remote areas for safety reasons. Doing this long-term isn't good for health; the air inside can become oxygen-deprived or breed bacteria. It's best reserved as an emergency measure only.
When taking children out, I've also tried taking a short nap in a turned-off car. It's important to be aware of the health impacts. After the car is turned off, the air conditioning stops working, air circulation basically ceases, carbon dioxide levels rise quickly, making breathing stuffy and particularly uncomfortable for babies or elderly people. I remember one time when my little daughter took an afternoon nap in the car, the high humidity inside caused her skin allergy. It's better to crack open a window or use the external circulation mode to improve ventilation. Additionally, the confined space limits body movement, leading to backaches and soreness after prolonged sleeping, affecting next-day energy levels. I recommend preparing a blanket or cushion for added comfort and limiting nap time to within half an hour. If conditions permit, prioritize quiet and safe parking lots or rest areas.
As a driver who frequently takes long trips, I occasionally take a nap in the car after turning off the engine. The procedure is simple: ensure the engine is completely off, park on a level surface, and crack open a window for fresh air. Bring some water or snacks in case of thirst, and adjust the seat angle for comfort. However, don’t sleep too deeply, as the car environment can easily lead to waking up with a headache. My advice is to set a phone alarm and limit the nap to 20 minutes—just enough to regain some energy. Of course, this isn’t a long-term solution but works well for a quick rest during a journey. Driving after waking up feels safer.
