Does idling with the air conditioning on harm a diesel vehicle?
1 Answers
Idling with the air conditioning on can indeed harm a diesel vehicle. The following are the hazards of idling with the AC on: Reduced battery lifespan: In principle, the air conditioning compressor is driven by the engine, while the blower fan is powered by the battery. During idling, the vehicle may not necessarily charge the battery. Excessive power consumption by the blower fan can lead to battery depletion, thereby affecting the battery's lifespan. Carbon buildup: Keeping the AC on while idling requires continuous engine operation. Prolonged idling can also impact the engine. When idling for extended periods, the gasoline entering the combustion chamber may not burn completely. Incomplete combustion produces large amounts of carbon monoxide, and some carbon deposits may accumulate. Since the airflow into the engine during idling is low, the flushing effect on carbon deposits is minimal. This increases the risk of carbon buildup in the engine.