Does Turning on the AC While Igniting Harm the Engine?
4 Answers
It falls under idling with the AC on and will not harm the engine. This is because the engine, alternator, and compressor are all operating normally, causing minimal damage to the vehicle. Below are relevant explanations: 1. Turn on the external circulation after rainy days: This prevents water vapor caused by temperature differences, which can lead to mold growth in the AC evaporator and pipes. After rainy days, turn on the AC on sunny days to keep it dry. Prolonged rainy weather significantly affects the AC, so after sunny days, activate the external circulation and turn on the blower to dry it out, keeping the AC dry and preventing mold. Occasionally run the AC at high fan speed. 2. Maintain the cleanliness of the AC system: If the AC is unused for a long time, dirt or dust can accumulate in the AC ducts, leading to mold over time. This not only causes odors in the vehicle but also releases harmful air. Therefore, frequently running the AC helps maintain the cleanliness of the system.
I've driven quite a few cars, and it's quite common to turn on the AC immediately after ignition. From my experience, this doesn't seriously damage the engine, but it depends on the car's condition. During a cold start, the engine RPM is still rising, and the lubrication system is just getting started. When you turn on the AC, the compressor kicks in, adding some extra load. Older models might feel a slight RPM drop or sound a bit louder, but modern cars have management software that automatically adjusts, so there won't be major issues. I recommend developing a good habit: wait 20-30 seconds after starting to let the oil circulate fully before turning on the AC. This benefits the car's lifespan and reduces engine strain in summer. Long-term neglect can accelerate wear under high-load conditions, so being mindful is enough—engines aren't that fragile, and proper maintenance is key. Remember to regularly check the AC system to ensure proper pressure.
I always bring up this topic when chatting with friends – turning on the AC right after ignition is really no big deal. I often do this with my new car. When the AC starts, the engine might dip slightly in speed or vibrate a bit, but the computer adjusts it back to normal immediately. The compressor does draw some power, but the impact is negligible; cars are designed with these scenarios in mind. On long drives in hot weather, I turn on the cold air right after ignition, and after years of doing this, the engine still runs like new. The key is not to blindly believe those warnings from old-school drivers – modern technology is robust enough that it won’t harm the engine. Just avoid frequently switching the AC on and off when the engine is cold, as this habit is also better for the battery. The real secret to extending your car’s life is using high-quality oil during maintenance. Drive with ease and don’t stress over small things.
As a family car user, I prioritize practicality and peace of mind. Turning on the AC at ignition might slightly increase engine load because lubrication is insufficient right after startup, and the sudden load from the compressor can mildly affect power. But the actual impact is minimal. My family car has been used for five years with the habit of turning on the AC immediately at ignition, and the engine remains in good condition. My routine is to wait about ten seconds after starting the engine before turning on the AC, which is more prudent, cost-effective, and safer. In hot summers, I first open the windows to ventilate before cooling, which helps reduce pressure. In the long run, the engine's durability is ensured as long as you avoid frequently turning on the AC during cold starts to prevent wear. Regular maintenance, such as timely oil changes and periodic AC checks, is sufficient.
