Does idling the car consume more fuel?

[BryceLynn]

Idling the car does consume more fuel. The main reasons for increased fuel consumption are: 1. Spark plugs: Spark plugs are the key component for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. Poor performance or aging of spark plugs will inevitably lead to engine fatigue and increased fuel consumption. 2. Rapid acceleration: Quick acceleration while driving causes strong friction between the tires and the ground, accelerating tire wear and increasing fuel consumption. 3. Prolonged idling without turning off the engine: Compared to normal driving, the engine ECU controls a higher fuel injection volume when the car is idling or just started. If the engine is not turned off or frequently idles for long periods, fuel consumption will increase.

[MiaLee]

Having driven for many years, I find that idling the car without driving indeed consumes a lot of fuel. After the engine starts, it burns gasoline while idling, consuming 1 to 3 liters per hour, and the fuel consumption may be even higher depending on the car model. I remember once being stuck in traffic for half an hour in the summer, and the fuel gauge dropped noticeably, wasting several dollars. Even worse, idling like this increases engine wear and shortens its lifespan, while also draining the battery faster. I recommend turning off the engine if you're waiting for someone or at a red light for more than 30 seconds. Developing this habit can save fuel costs and protect your beloved car. Green driving not only saves money but is also environmentally friendly, reducing exhaust emissions and benefiting urban air quality.

[RyderRose]

From a cost-saving perspective, idling the engine without driving definitely wastes fuel. Even when the car is stationary after ignition, it still burns gasoline, with idling consuming about 1 liter per hour. At the current fuel price of 8 yuan per liter, that's 8 yuan wasted every hour. Even stopping for ten minutes can burn through a couple of yuan worth of fuel. I always pay attention to this when driving—for example, turning off the engine when picking up friends by the roadside or during temporary stops to avoid unnecessary idling. Over a year, this can easily save hundreds of yuan in fuel costs, making it a good habit for those who are budget-conscious.

[StCaden]

When the car is idling without moving, the engine is indeed consuming fuel. The principle is that after ignition, the engine continues to operate and burn gasoline, just like a fan consuming electricity when it's on but not in use. The fuel consumption during idling is slightly lower than during normal driving, but each car consumes approximately 0.5 to 1 liter of fuel per hour. It's worse during cold starts when the warm-up time is longer. I have a habit of turning off the engine while waiting at short red lights, which is both fuel-efficient and practical. Note that prolonged idling can also accelerate battery aging.