Does idling with the air conditioning on harm the car?

[McAdeline]

Idling with the air conditioning on can harm the car. It is not recommended to keep the engine idling with the air conditioning on for extended periods. Not only does it wear out the engine, but prolonged use of the air conditioning in recirculation mode will gradually pollute and degrade the air quality inside the vehicle, potentially producing harmful gases. The power consumption of the air conditioning only accounts for a small portion of the engine's idle energy. However, when idling with the air conditioning on, the engine not only drives the air conditioning compressor but also needs to maintain the normal operation of the power steering and brake booster pumps. The latter two functions are completely unnecessary when the car is parked, and keeping them running is a significant waste of power.

[Adeline]

I've been driving for over 20 years and often idle with the AC on while waiting by the roadside. This habit actually harms the car because at idle, the engine runs slower, leading to incomplete combustion which can cause carbon buildup in the cylinders. Over time, the engine loses power and fuel consumption increases. My old Honda shook badly because of this, and I ended up spending a lot to clean the throttle body. The battery also suffers since the AC compressor is driven by the engine, and at idle, charging is insufficient. Old batteries are prone to draining—I’ve had two instances where the car wouldn’t start, and calling for help was a hassle. Short periods like 10-15 minutes aren’t a big issue, but avoid prolonged idling. Also, in summer, don’t be lazy—try opening the windows for ventilation or parking in the shade to save on fuel. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and carbon cleaning, can also reduce damage.

[MacEvangeline]

As a young car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles, I often ponder the pros and cons of idling with the AC on. Experiments show: short-term use poses minor issues, but prolonged operation carries hidden risks. At low engine RPMs, the AC compressor draws excessive electricity, and if the battery ages quickly, it may fail to cope—my used Toyota once had its battery die from this. It also leads to poor emissions, worsening exhaust pollution. Idling wastes fuel too, burning nearly a liter per hour, which hurts the wallet. Recommendation: avoid exceeding 30 minutes, especially for older cars that are more prone to breakdowns. A handy tip: on hot days, use solar panels to power fans for auxiliary cooling, reducing AC reliance. Regularly check engine conditions and battery health to avoid major issues.

[IanMarie]

As an eco-conscious car owner, I recognize that idling with the AC on is indeed environmentally unfriendly. It wastes fuel unnecessarily, as the engine barely moves yet must power the air conditioning, doubling emissions that pollute the air. Statistics show that one hour of idling emits pollutants equivalent to driving several kilometers. This not only causes engine carbon buildup but also accelerates climate change. In the city, I often turn off the engine and open windows when parked, saving money while protecting the environment. Occasional short-term use may be acceptable, but remember to shut off the engine during prolonged waits. Maintaining your vehicle in good condition can help mitigate these issues.