Does Remote Start with Air Conditioning Damage the Car?
3 Answers
Remote start with air conditioning damages the car. 1. Reasons: Turning off the engine before turning off the air conditioning is harmful to the engine. This is because when the vehicle is started again, the engine will start with the load of the air conditioning, and such a high load can damage the engine. 2. Best Practices: Turn off the air conditioning a few minutes before reaching the destination. This allows the natural air to circulate, helping the temperature inside the air conditioning ducts to rise and eliminate the temperature difference with the outside, thereby maintaining relative dryness in the air conditioning system and preventing mold growth. Additionally, it is advisable to wait two to three minutes after starting the vehicle, allowing the engine to be properly lubricated, before turning on the air conditioning.
Remotely starting the vehicle and turning on the air conditioning immediately ignites the engine to power the AC compressor, with the fan activating to regulate cabin temperature. In this state, the engine idles at slightly lower combustion efficiency, potentially causing minor carbon buildup, but modern cars feature smart idle systems to optimize combustion and minimize impact. While AC startup consumes high energy, it causes minimal wear to the compressor and engine—posing no issue with a healthy battery. I recommend avoiding prolonged idling (e.g., over 15 minutes) to prevent fuel waste and unnecessary wear. Normal driving helps clear carbon deposits, making moderate operation harmless overall, but regular checks of engine oil and AC components are advised.
As a frequent driver, I often use the remote start feature to turn on the air conditioning. Whether it's hot or cold outside, starting the car in advance makes the interior much more comfortable. The vehicle operates without any issues—the engine starts normally and the battery remains stable. From experience, controlling the duration is important. For example, running it for just 5 to 10 minutes is sufficient. Keeping it on too long wastes fuel but doesn't harm the core components of the car. Modern vehicles are quite durable. I remember one time I forgot to turn off the engine after parking, and it ran for half an hour. Fuel consumption was a bit higher, but a later inspection showed no problems. Personally, I think it's fine to use it reasonably—just avoid relying on it for extended periods every day.
