Can You Sleep in the Car After Turning Off the Engine?
3 Answers
You can sleep in the car after turning off the engine. Here are some related issues to consider: 1. Note: Do not close all doors and windows; you can slightly open a portion of the window to allow air circulation and prevent carbon dioxide buildup, which could lead to poisoning or death. 2. Reason: In a sealed vehicle, when the carbon dioxide concentration reaches 1%, the body will experience mild poisoning symptoms, such as brain hypoxia and unconsciousness. If the concentration exceeds 3%, it will cause difficulty in breathing, and a concentration above 6% can be fatal, especially during deep sleep when some people may not wake up even if called. Therefore, sleeping in a car with the engine off poses certain hazards and is not conducive to good health.
That day my friend and I were stuck in traffic during our road trip, and we couldn't hold on any longer, so we turned off the engine and slept in the car. Honestly, when sleeping in a car with the engine off, you need to pay special attention to ventilation. I always crack open the sunroof or lower the windows a bit. Otherwise, the air inside and outside the car doesn't circulate, making it stuffy and prone to carbon dioxide buildup. Parking in an open outdoor area is much safer than in an underground garage, as the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is significantly lower after the engine is turned off. In winter, it gets extremely cold without heating, so it's best to have a thick blanket. In summer, the temperature rises quickly under direct sunlight, so remember to find shade or use car curtains for protection. If you frequently rest in the car, keeping a window mosquito net is quite practical.
Last time at the service area, I noticed many drivers taking naps directly in the driver's seat. Sleeping in a turned-off car is indeed convenient and hassle-free, but the seat angle needs to be adjusted properly. I tried flattening the rear seats and laying out an inflatable mattress, which significantly improved sleep quality. The key is to ensure safety by locking the doors and choosing parking areas covered by surveillance. Once, I forgot to lock the car and was startled awake by a passing vehicle's alarm in the middle of the night. Now, I've developed the habit of placing the keys under the floor mat after locking up. Also, a reminder: avoid keeping the reading light on or charging devices for extended periods when the engine is off to prevent battery drain and starting issues.
