Is it okay to only turn off the engine but not the power when refueling?

[LawsonAnn]

When refueling, it is not advisable to only turn off the engine without cutting the power. You should park the car, turn off the engine, and shut down the power. During refueling, the concentration of gasoline vapor in the air at the gas station is relatively high, and the fuel tank is in an open state, which increases the oxygen content inside. If an electrical device short-circuits and generates sparks, it can easily ignite the gasoline, leading to serious consequences. Below are some precautions for car refueling: Avoid overfilling the tank: If the tank is overfilled with gasoline, the high temperatures in summer combined with the heat generated by the car itself can cause the gasoline to expand. Overfilling may lead to gasoline overflowing through the vent hole, which, upon contact with an open flame, can result in spontaneous combustion with unimaginable consequences. Additionally, spilled gasoline can corrode the car body. Avoid waiting until the fuel gauge light comes on to refuel: While driving, always monitor the fuel gauge. When the indicator shows only a quarter of the tank remaining, it’s time to refuel. It’s best not to wait until the fuel light comes on. Frequently refueling only when the light is on can prevent the fuel pump from receiving proper lubrication and cooling, ultimately shortening its lifespan. If the tank remains empty for too long, the temperature difference between the inside and outside can cause moisture to form inside the tank, leading to corrosion, degraded fuel quality, and increased engine burden.

[LaCayden]

As a safety-conscious driver, I often share vehicle maintenance tips with my friends. Keeping the ignition on while refueling may seem harmless, but it actually poses significant hidden dangers. Although the engine is off, if the key remains in the ON position, the vehicle's electrical systems may still be active—such as the fan running or the dashboard lights staying on. These devices can generate small sparks or accumulate static electricity during operation, while fuel vapors are highly concentrated during refueling, creating a fire hazard. I once witnessed a minor fire at a service station caused by this very issue—luckily, it was extinguished in time. That's why I strongly recommend always removing the key or turning off the ignition switch when refueling, following the prominent warning signs at gas stations. This habit might seem tedious, but it’s lifesaving. Once formed, it becomes second nature—why not adopt it? Safety comes first; don’t risk major consequences for minor convenience.

[MacBrooklyn]

Having driven for nearly a decade, I've accumulated quite a bit of practical experience. When refueling, if you only turn off the engine without cutting the power, I tried it a few times when I was younger, thinking that leaving the radio on was no big deal. But later, a mechanic warned me that electrical devices in the car still draw current when in the ON position, which can easily produce sparks; when gasoline vapors encounter them, they can ignite explosively, which is extremely dangerous. My brother once had his clothes singed because of this, giving him quite a scare. Now, I always turn off the engine and remove the key before refueling—a simple action that avoids the risk. The gas station rules clearly state 'turn off the engine,' and we should follow them. Safe driving isn't just about handling the steering wheel; the refueling process is also crucial. Spending an extra ten seconds ensures safety.

[HectorMarie]

From a professional automotive perspective, refueling with the engine off but electrical system on is technically feasible but unsafe. With the key in the ON position, active electrical systems may generate arcs due to friction or aging components; meanwhile, gasoline vapors are highly flammable and a single spark could trigger a fire. It's recommended to turn off the engine and remove the key. This simple habit could save lives.

[IsabelaLynn]

As a mom who has been using a family car for years, refueling has become a daily routine. I always turn off the engine and cut the power, whereas my husband used to make the mistake of only turning off the engine without cutting the power, claiming it was more convenient. But I know that fuel vapors can spread, and electrical sparks can ignite them, especially in summer when accidents are more likely. Once, he almost caused trouble by leaving the air conditioning and fan on. Now I teach my kids to do this: turn off the engine and remove the key before refueling, and listen to the gas station instructions. Safety is the real peace of mind. Don’t rush; taking it slow brings more comfort.

[VanLayla]

Having been in the car enthusiast circle for a long time, I've heard many fueling accidents. Keeping the ignition off but not cutting power seems convenient, like listening to music while waiting, but it's risky: electrical devices can generate static electricity or sparks while operating; gasoline vapors accumulate and can ignite instantly. I remember a case on the forum where this burned the bumper. My suggestion is to develop a habit: turn off the ignition and remove the key—safety first. No matter how advanced modern car technology is, we can't be careless. Follow the rules to avoid tragedies.