Does starting the car with the air conditioning on have any impact on the vehicle?
2 Answers
Yes, it has an impact. When the engine starts, the air conditioning compressor also operates, placing a significant load on the battery and affecting its lifespan. Here are some precautions for using the car air conditioning: 1. Avoid using the air conditioning for too long in a single session: If the interior temperature has reached a comfortable level, you can turn off the air conditioning or turn it on again after a while. Prolonged use of the air conditioning can increase the pressure on the condenser, causing wear and tear to the cooling system. Therefore, it is advisable not to use the air conditioning for extended periods each time. 2. Ventilate by opening windows: When you first enter the car, you should open the windows for ventilation and turn on the external circulation to expel the hot air. 3. Do not use the internal circulation of the air conditioning for too long: Since internal circulation involves the air circulating within the enclosed space of the car, the oxygen level inside the car will continuously decrease. Additionally, if the gasoline in the cylinders does not burn completely, unburned carbon monoxide from the engine may leak into the cabin. As a result, the air quality inside the car will deteriorate and may even pose a health hazard.
After driving for many years, I've found that not turning off the AC before starting the engine isn't a big deal in most modern cars. When the engine starts, the AC compressor activates along with it, increasing the load on the battery. The starter motor has to handle a greater load, which could lead to wear over time, and older batteries might struggle. Modern cars are well-designed, typically stabilizing the engine speed before engaging the compressor to protect the system. However, older cars might have difficulty starting or even fail to start. I make it a habit to turn off the AC and all electrical devices before shutting down the engine to reduce stress. Don't panic if you forget occasionally—the car won't break down immediately, but developing good habits can extend battery life, saving you both hassle and money. During routine car checks, pay attention to any unusual starting sounds to prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs.
