Does a Car Consume Fuel When Idling?
2 Answers
Yes, a car consumes fuel when idling. Here are some related details about engine stalling: 1. Reasons for stalling: Automatic transmission models: Vehicles with automatic transmission rarely experience stalling, whereas manual transmission models may stall frequently due to inexperienced driving. However, automatic transmission cars can also stall, mainly due to the use of low-quality fuel causing engine carbon buildup and stalling. 2. Precautions: For automatic transmission cars, stalling is primarily caused by using substandard fuel. The solution is to refuel at reputable, large-scale gas stations with higher-grade fuel, such as 97-octane gasoline. Although more expensive, it ensures longer vehicle lifespan and better driving performance.
I usually like to keep the engine running while waiting for friends by the roadside, thinking it's more convenient with the air conditioning on. However, keeping the car idling does consume fuel because the engine is still running and burning gasoline. Although it uses less fuel than when driving, it adds up over time and can be quite wasteful. I've calculated that idling for about one minute consumes approximately 0.1 liters of fuel, so waiting for half an hour wastes the equivalent of a meal's worth of fuel money. This is especially common in congested city roads, where the fuel gauge noticeably drops. Now, I try to develop the habit of turning off the engine during long red lights or stops exceeding one minute. Some newer cars even have auto start-stop features to help save fuel. Overall, avoiding prolonged idling is better for both your wallet and the engine.
