How much can a car charge by idling for 10 minutes?
2 Answers
Idling for ten minutes can charge the car battery by approximately five percent. Charging by stepping on the accelerator while idling: Theoretically, as long as the car engine is started, the vehicle begins charging, since the car relies on the alternator for charging, and the power source of the alternator comes from the engine. Therefore, idling alone can charge the battery, but to improve charging efficiency, you can appropriately step on the accelerator while idling, which speeds up the charging process. Battery maintenance tips: It is important to note that after the car is turned off, all electrical devices in the car must be turned off to prevent the car battery from draining.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've gained deep insights into idling charging. At idle, the engine typically runs at around 700-800 RPM, with limited alternator output providing only a small charging current of about 5-10 amps. Idling for 10 minutes might add just 0.5-1.0 amp-hours to the battery - merely 1%-2% of a 60Ah battery's capacity, which is completely inadequate. This method is highly inefficient, wasting fuel while increasing carbon buildup risks. For long-term solutions, charging while driving at higher RPMs is far superior, as the alternator can deliver dozens of amps. While occasional emergency use is acceptable, never rely on idling to recharge a dead battery. Regular battery inspections are the most cost-effective approach, helping identify issues early to save both fuel and headaches.
