Can You Sleep in the Car with the Engine Off?
2 Answers
You can sleep in the car with the engine off. However, it is important to keep the windows open for ventilation. Below is more information about turning off the engine: Fuel consumption: When the engine starts, the car increases fuel injection according to a preset program. The specific fuel injection amount is generally 3 to 4 times the idle speed. Therefore, restarting the engine immediately after turning it off will consume more fuel than normal idling. Regular battery: The impact on a regular battery is minimal, and replacement costs are not high. Typically, a car battery has a capacity of 60 ampere-hours. Each engine start consumes about 750 ampere-seconds. The electricity consumed per start is approximately 0.3% to 0.4% of the battery's capacity. Theoretically, this battery can support over 300 starts. Frequent starts and stops will shorten the battery's lifespan.
As someone who has embarked on multiple long-distance road trips, I find sleeping in a turned-off car entirely feasible, but safety is the top priority. The main risk is carbon monoxide poisoning, especially if you've started the engine or there's an issue with the exhaust pipe, so always crack a window slightly for ventilation to ensure fresh air circulation. Location selection is also crucial; park in open, spacious areas like service stations or secure parking lots, avoiding enclosed garages or hidden roadside spots to prevent theft or accidents. Bring a blanket, water, and some basic emergency supplies to handle temperature discomfort. Legally, some city streets prohibit overnight stays in vehicles, so it's important to check local regulations. While it can save on accommodation costs and provide convenient rest during travel, I recommend using it only for short naps. For overnight sleep, pay extra attention to monitoring your physical condition to avoid danger.
