Does idling the car with the air conditioning on damage the vehicle?
2 Answers
Idling the car with the air conditioning on can indeed damage the vehicle. It is not recommended to keep the engine idling for extended periods with the AC running, as this not only causes wear on the engine but also leads to progressively deteriorating air quality inside the cabin when the AC is set to recirculate mode, potentially producing harmful gases. The power consumed by the air conditioning accounts for only a small portion of the engine's idle energy output. However, when idling with the AC on, the engine not only drives the AC compressor but also maintains the operation of power steering and brake booster pumps—functions that are entirely unnecessary when the vehicle is stationary, resulting in significant energy wastage. Keeping the engine idling solely to power the AC compressor is highly inefficient.
As an experienced car enthusiast who frequently tinkers with vehicles, I believe idling with the AC on can indeed harm the car. The main issue is that when the engine is idling, the RPM is low and power output is minimal. However, once the AC is turned on, the compressor and fans start running, increasing the load and causing incomplete fuel combustion. Over time, this can lead to carbon buildup in the cylinders and valves, resulting in reduced power and a spike in fuel consumption. I once drove a car that idled with the AC on daily, and it eventually developed engine problems that cost a hefty sum to repair. Short-term use, like waiting at a traffic light for a minute or two, is generally fine. However, prolonged idling with the AC on during hot weather or in underground parking lots is definitely not advisable. For daily use, it's recommended to turn off the AC for a few minutes while waiting to let the car ventilate, or to schedule regular carbon cleaning maintenance to keep the engine healthy and extend its lifespan. Also, be mindful of battery wear—the AC electrical system consumes power, and idling doesn’t charge the battery efficiently, which could potentially damage it.
