Can You Die from Sleeping in a Car with the AC On?
2 Answers
If you spend the night in the car, it is certainly possible. Turning on the AC usually involves closing the windows, and running the AC requires the engine to be on. The engine's combustion inevitably produces carbon monoxide. When the windows are tightly closed, the concentration of carbon monoxide inside the car will gradually increase until it reaches lethal levels, leading to poisoning and death. Function of the AC: The car air conditioning system is designed to regulate and control the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and airflow inside the vehicle to optimal levels. It provides a comfortable environment for passengers, reducing travel fatigue, and creates favorable working conditions for the driver. It serves as a crucial ventilation device for ensuring safe driving. Precautions: For your own safety and that of your family, try to avoid sleeping in the car. If you must sleep in the car, park it in a well-ventilated area to allow the wind to disperse any toxic gases around the vehicle. Do not close the windows completely—leave them slightly open to ensure proper air circulation and sufficient oxygen inside the car while maintaining some privacy.
Sleeping in the car with the air conditioning on does pose fatal risks, and this is no trivial matter. When the engine is running, the exhaust pipe may leak toxic carbon monoxide gas, which is colorless and odorless but can quickly accumulate in an enclosed cabin, causing people to fall into unconsciousness or suffocate to death. I once experienced this during a long-distance trip when I parked and turned on the air conditioning to rest—soon after, I felt extremely dizzy and was fortunate to open the window in time to escape danger. Such accidents are more common in parking lots or garages because exhaust fumes struggle to disperse. To avoid tragedy, only rest in open areas like roadside parking spots, keeping the windows slightly open for ventilation. Additionally, regularly inspect the car's exhaust pipe to ensure there are no aging or leaks. If you feel tired while driving, it's advisable to pull into a service area, get out, and move around—this is much safer.
