Can the car doors be locked without turning off the engine?

[DiAnastasia]

It is not possible to lock the car doors without turning off the engine. Even if certain car models allow locking the doors without turning off the engine, the engine will automatically shut off after the doors are locked. The inability to lock the doors without turning off the engine is a safety consideration. When a vehicle remains stationary for an extended period after parking, the accumulation of exhaust emissions can potentially enter the car through the air intake (since the vehicle is not completely airtight, even with the internal circulation turned on, this cannot be avoided). When turning off the engine, it is advisable to delay the shutdown, which benefits the engine. Similar to how a person needs to walk slowly after a sprint to fully recover, it is recommended not to turn off the engine and remove the key immediately upon reaching the destination. Instead, take some time to organize items inside the car and close the windows. The recommended delay before turning off the engine is approximately 30 seconds.

[DeLucas]

I've noticed that many cars can lock the doors without turning off the engine, which mainly depends on the vehicle's design and key system. For example, my car comes with a smart key—as long as the engine is running, I can step out of the car and press the lock button on the key to successfully lock the doors. If it's a keyless entry system, it will automatically lock the car once it detects the key has left, but it might not work if the key is accidentally left inside. However, some car models restrict this feature for safety reasons, such as preventing theft or the buildup of harmful gases in a garage. From my practical experience, regularly checking the manual to confirm functionalities and avoiding parking in hazardous locations can ensure safe operation.

[StJulianna]

As a cautious driver, I must emphasize that locking the car without turning off the engine poses potential risks. Leaving the engine running while locking the doors, especially if the keys are left inside or nearby, makes it easy for thieves to break in. More importantly, exhaust fumes in enclosed spaces can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is dangerous for both humans and pets. Therefore, I only occasionally use this feature in secure locations like my home garage or monitored parking lots. In terms of operation, most modern vehicles can easily accomplish this via remote control. However, if you encounter issues with the doors not locking properly, it's advisable to promptly check the electrical system or replace components, as ensuring driving safety is the top priority.

[LaMargaret]

I often drive for deliveries and need quick access, such as warming up the car in winter or turning on the AC in summer. My experience is that most cars can lock the doors without turning off the engine—just press the remote key once. This is very convenient, saving the hassle of frequently starting the engine. However, be careful not to drop the key inside the car or risk theft. Choose less crowded areas to avoid unnecessary trouble.