Does Idling the Engine in Place Damage the Car?
2 Answers
Idling the engine in place can damage the car. When the engine is in P (Park) or D (Drive) gear, it is in an idling state without any output from the transmission, which severely affects the engine's performance. Generally, after ignition, the upper half of the engine lacks lubrication as there is no oil circulation. It takes approximately 30 seconds after starting for the oil pump to circulate oil to critical engine components requiring lubrication, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. The car engine is the power-generating device of the vehicle, acting as the heart of the car, determining its power, fuel efficiency, stability, and environmental friendliness. Depending on the power source, car engines can be categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric motors for electric vehicles, and hybrid systems, among others.
As a car enthusiast, I must say that idling the engine in place is indeed harmful to the vehicle, and this issue should not be taken lightly. During idling, the engine speed is low, and the oil flow is not smooth enough, significantly reducing lubrication effectiveness, which can easily increase wear on internal components such as piston rings and cylinder walls. Over time, incomplete fuel combustion can lead to carbon deposits accumulating on the valves and fuel injectors, affecting engine performance, making the car feel sluggish during acceleration and increasing fuel consumption. Temperature is also a concern—idling warms up the engine slowly, and using the air conditioning for heating in underground parking during winter can cause uneven thermal expansion of the engine, increasing the risk of deformation. Modern car designs are smarter, and short idling periods like waiting at traffic lights are fine. However, prolonged idling, such as waiting in parking lots or charging, can cause more harm. It’s recommended to turn off the engine or drive the car to protect its lifespan.
