Does idling with the AC on damage the car?

[MacAndrew]

Idling with the AC on is a normal operating condition during vehicle use. Automobiles are designed and manufactured to account for various usage scenarios, so this practice does not cause significant harm but rather constitutes normal wear. However, there are several potential hazards of idling with the AC on: 1. Idling with the AC on produces more harmful exhaust emissions compared to driving with the AC on, as idling represents the most challenging engine operating condition where gasoline combustion is relatively incomplete, resulting in higher emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful gases. 2. If not properly managed, idling with the AC on can cause harm or even fatalities to vehicle occupants. There are two main risks: oxygen deprivation/asphyxiation and carbon monoxide poisoning. When idling with the AC on, always park in an open area and never remain in the vehicle for extended periods in enclosed spaces, as exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide can enter the cabin and easily lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

[VanJameson]

Having worked in the car industry for over a decade, I've seen many cases where people leave their cars idling with the AC on while waiting for their wives to pick up kids. Actually, occasionally idling with the AC on for a short while isn't a big problem—the engine is still running, and the compressor works normally, so it won't noticeably harm the car in the short term. However, if the car idles for too long, say over half an hour, fuel consumption will spike, the engine's low RPM leads to insufficient lubrication, potentially causing carbon buildup, and the compressor is more prone to wear. The battery also bears a heavier load, especially in the summer heat when cooling efficiency drops, affecting engine longevity. It's best not to exceed 10 minutes; if the wait is long, it's better to turn off the engine or use the ventilation fan instead—saving fuel while protecting the car. The same logic applies to winter heating—don't idle too long, as a cold engine bay might make starting difficult.

[AustinLee]

As a young person driving an electric car, I'm quite concerned about battery health when idling with the air conditioning on. Running the AC while the car is idling does increase engine load, resulting in significantly higher fuel consumption which means increased emissions and is less environmentally friendly. The compressor is driven by the engine, and under idle conditions, there might be insufficient heat dissipation leading to minor wear. If the battery is aging and discharges quickly, the car might not start next time. Short-term operations like 5-8 minutes have negligible effects and aren't worth worrying about. However, doing this repeatedly over the long term can shorten the lifespan of components such as the condenser or fan. When waiting in parking lots, I usually just turn on the internal circulation for convenience and peace of mind. While the AC system itself is designed to be durable, habits determine the car's condition. Regular maintenance of the battery and fuel system is sufficient.

[DeMelanie]

Taking kids out often involves waiting in the car with the AC on, which makes me worry about potential harm to the vehicle. Briefly running the cold or warm air for a few minutes during short stops is safe and manageable for the car. However, prolonged operation exceeding 15 minutes increases engine load, causes oil temperature fluctuations, accelerates compressor wear, wastes fuel, and degrades cabin air quality (risk of stuffiness/overheating) – recommend avoiding extended idling. Occasional use is acceptable, but avoid making it a habit for sustained vehicle health.