Does Prolonged Car Idling Affect the Vehicle?

[HarperAnn]

Prolonged car idling does have an impact on the vehicle, including the following effects: 1. The engine oil pressure is relatively low, worsening the lubrication condition of moving parts; 2. Unburned fuel washes the cylinder walls; 3. Weak intake vortex leads to incomplete fuel combustion, easily forming carbon deposits; 4. It reduces the vehicle's power performance and causes engine wear; 5. Poor lubrication of engine idle oil leads to engine wear; 6. Increases the emission of pollutants; 7. Incomplete fuel combustion releases gases containing large amounts of toxic substances like carbon monoxide, which are harmful to human health; 8. Higher residual exhaust gases in the cylinder, requiring the vehicle to automatically enrich the air-fuel mixture to ensure stable combustion.

[Malachi]

I've been driving for over 20 years, and prolonged idling is really bad for the car. When the car is parked but the engine keeps running idle, the most direct consequence is wasted gasoline – it can burn one or two liters of fuel per hour, throwing money away. More importantly, it leads to carbon buildup inside the engine. Carbon deposits clogging the valves and fuel injectors can cause weak acceleration, sluggish speed increase, and a sharp rise in fuel consumption. For example, waiting in a parking lot during summer with the engine hot but stationary worsens carbon buildup; in winter, idling for a few minutes to warm up the engine after a cold start is acceptable, but don't exceed three minutes. If you frequently idle, it's advisable to get an engine cleaning every six months, using foam to remove carbon deposits and checking the spark plugs while you're at it. This keeps the car running smoother and extends its lifespan. Remember, less idling means saving money and hassle.

[DiDeclan]

As an environmental enthusiast, I believe prolonged idling is extremely harmful. Engine idling emits more carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, polluting the air and affecting our breathing. Every hour of idling emits approximately half a kilogram more of carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming. Economically, it also wastes fuel—idling at traffic lights or in city traffic jams could cost hundreds more in fuel annually. I make it a habit to turn off the engine when parked, such as when waiting roadside for more than 30 seconds. It's best to activate the auto start-stop feature if your car has one. Reducing idling isn't difficult—it saves money and eases the burden on our planet. Cultivating good habits benefits everyone.

[DeLyla]

Technically speaking, prolonged idling does harm the vehicle. At low RPMs, insufficient lubrication leads to accelerated component wear, especially in older cars. Carbon buildup increases on pistons and intake valves, potentially causing engine knocking or increased fuel consumption. Idling also drains the battery significantly - an aged battery may fail to start the engine. Limit idling to a few minutes (e.g., no more than 2 minutes for winter warm-up). During routine maintenance, have technicians use carbon cleaners or check battery condition to mitigate these issues. Simply put, shorter engine idling equals better longevity.