Can You Lock the Car Without Turning Off the Engine?

[StKiara]

When the vehicle is not turned off, you cannot lock the doors. Even if some car models allow locking the doors without turning off the engine, they will automatically shut off after locking. Here are some methods to prevent forgetting to turn off the engine when exiting the car: 1. Check the tachometer and display screen: Before getting out, check if the display screen has turned off and gone black. Also, see if the tachometer reads zero. This is a conventional method and should become a habit. 2. Steering wheel rising: When setting the steering wheel position, avoid setting it at the highest position. This way, when parking and turning off the engine, the steering wheel will rise. This action is subtle and may not always be noticeable, but it serves as a mild reminder. 3. Turn on daytime running lights: In the light settings, enable the daytime running lights. This method is quite effective. After locking the car, check if the daytime running lights are off, indicating that the engine has been turned off.

[Michelle]

As a frequent driver, I've found that whether you can lock your car while it's running depends mainly on your car's key system. Modern vehicles like my keyless entry model allow you to press a button on the door handle to lock the car after getting out, with the engine still running and the air conditioning continuing to operate—which is quite comfortable in the summer. However, be aware of the risks: engine operation emits exhaust, and parking in an unventilated space can lead to carbon monoxide buildup and potential poisoning; there's also the theft risk, as thieves seeing the car running may be tempted to steal or vandalize it. I recommend using this feature only for quick stops in open areas, like in front of a convenience store, and not abusing it. It's best to turn off the engine before locking to ensure safety and energy efficiency, saving fuel and avoiding trouble. Maintaining this habit long-term can also extend the engine's lifespan.

[DePaisley]

From the perspective of a driver with 20 years of experience: Never lock the car while the engine is still running. Locking the car with the engine on can cause exhaust fumes to accumulate inside the vehicle or garage, potentially leading to carbon monoxide poisoning, which poses a serious health risk. It also creates a major security issue, as the car becomes an easy target for thieves. I've personally witnessed a friend getting into an accident because of this. Although cars with remote keys might not allow locking while the engine is running, don't rely on this feature—keyless systems sometimes permit it, but the risk is too high. I always make sure to turn off the engine before locking the car; safety comes first. Develop good habits by checking doors and windows when parking to avoid regrets later.

[OLorenzo]

My car has a smart key model that allows locking the vehicle even with the engine running. Simply get out, close the door, and press the button or touch the door handle to lock it. This is very convenient when leaving the air conditioning on, especially when carrying children to keep the cabin temperature comfortable. However, there are significant risks: dangerous exhaust gas buildup; potential failure of the anti-theft system. I've done this briefly when buying coffee, but only in well-ventilated, open areas. Don't make it a habit - turning off the engine to lock is safer and more eco-friendly.

[Cunha]

From a technical perspective, whether a car can be locked while the engine is running depends on the key type. Remote keys usually have limited locking functionality when the engine is on; keyless entry systems may allow locking, but the anti-theft mechanism often depends on the key's location: the car won't lock if the key is inside, but can be locked from outside. In practice, avoid testing this randomly: running the engine increases fuel consumption and risks, especially in older vehicles where systems are prone to malfunction. I recommend checking the user manual, as most designs prevent such unsafe behavior. Turning off the engine before locking is the best way to protect both personal safety and property.