Can You Sleep in a Car with the Engine Running and Air Conditioning On?
3 Answers
It is not advisable to sleep in a car with the engine running and air conditioning on. Reasons: While damage to the car is a minor concern, the serious risk is death from oxygen deprivation. Staying inside a car for extended periods is dangerous because humans can be poisoned by inhaling carbon dioxide and other exhaust fumes produced by the car. Once unconsciousness sets in, tragedy can occur. Carbon monoxide, being denser, forms a high-concentration zone around the car when exhaust is emitted from the tailpipe. This gas can enter the cabin through air vents and accumulate inside. Therefore, whether the air conditioning or heating is on, or the engine is idling, staying inside a stationary car for long periods is extremely hazardous. Solutions for Drowsiness While Driving: Listen to the radio instead of music: This stimulates brain activity. Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing gum can boost a driver's positive mood and alertness. Apply cooling oil to the nose: Inhaling it directly stimulates the brain. Drink energy drinks: They help refresh and awaken the mind.
I personally don't recommend sleeping in a car with the engine running and the air conditioning on. Although the AC keeps you cool or warm, the running engine emits carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless toxic gas that can easily accumulate in the confined space of the car. I've heard real-life cases where people fell unconscious or even died from carbon monoxide poisoning after resting this way in parking lots or garages. The car's ventilation system may not always expel all exhaust gases in time, especially in winter when the heating mode makes it easier for harmful gases to fill the cabin. My advice is to turn off the engine and crack the windows for ventilation when sleeping—even in hot weather, it's better than taking the risk. Safety comes first; health and life are more important than a few minutes of AC comfort. For your own sake, if you're truly tired, find a safe place to rest properly. That's the only way to feel at ease.
From my experience, this is quite scary. Last time when I went on a long trip with my buddy, he was exhausted at the service area and wanted to sleep in the car with the AC on. I immediately stopped him and warned him about the danger. When a car idles, it sucks in exhaust fumes from the tailpipe, causing carbon dioxide to accumulate and the air to thin out, which can make people dizzy or even suffocate. I’ve done some research myself—when the engine keeps running, the exhaust isn’t fully filtered, easily polluting the car’s interior. If you’re really tired in a remote area, it’s better to get out, find a shady spot, lay down a blanket, and take a short nap. It’s safer and saves money. Running the AC with the engine on not only wastes fuel but, more importantly, your body can’t handle the carbon monoxide exposure. We all need to be more careful—don’t overlook small details for convenience. Looking out for each other among friends is the right thing to do.
