Does Keeping the Engine Running Damage the Car?
2 Answers
Keeping the engine running for extended periods while it remains in a high-temperature state will increase fuel consumption, causing the engine to operate under high load continuously. This can lead to gasoline leakage from the engine and even oil stains on the car chassis. If exposed to open flames, it may easily result in spontaneous combustion. Below are some key points regarding car engine maintenance: 1. Use qualified lubricating oil: For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional equipment of the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions. For diesel engines, choose CB--CD grade diesel engine oil according to mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's specified requirements. 2. Regularly change the oil and filter: To avoid malfunctions, change the oil periodically based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level (generally up to the upper limit of the oil dipstick). Additionally, if the filter is clogged and oil cannot pass through the filter element, it may rupture the filter or open the safety valve, allowing oil to bypass through the bypass valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication areas, accelerating engine wear and worsening internal pollution.
As an environmentally conscious individual, I've realized that keeping the engine running for extended periods is truly uneconomical. In idle state, the engine burns fuel without moving, wasting an average of 0.5-1 liter of gasoline per hour - fuel costs keep climbing. More importantly, this significantly increases exhaust emissions, polluting the environment and worsening urban air quality. Internal components tend to accumulate carbon deposits, potentially clogging fuel injectors and affecting power performance. Prolonged idling accelerates engine aging and leads to costly repairs. My Hyundai's start-stop system automatically shuts off and restarts the engine during brief stops, protecting the engine while saving fuel. I recommend developing the habit of turning off your engine when parked - it saves money, protects your vehicle, and benefits our planet. The overall advantages far outweigh any disadvantages.
