Is It Safe to Sleep in the Car After Turning Off the Engine at Night?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to sleep in the car, especially for extended periods, due to the risk of oxygen deprivation and suffocation. Here are the specific reasons: 1. Generally, sleeping in the car after turning off the engine is not a problem, provided it is in an open and well-ventilated area. It is best to leave a window slightly open to ensure adequate ventilation. 2. If you sleep in the car with the air conditioning on while the engine is idling and without opening the windows for ventilation, it can be extremely dangerous. 3. If the engine remains idling for a long time, it can lead to incomplete fuel combustion, producing carbon monoxide gas. Inhaling excessive amounts of carbon monoxide can result in poisoning.
Sleeping in the car sounds tempting, but the safety risks are significant. After the engine is turned off, the car becomes completely dark. If the doors and windows are tightly closed, poor air circulation can lead to carbon dioxide buildup, causing dizziness or worse. I've experienced neck pain after napping in the car, and the cramped space affects sleep quality. Location matters—parking on a remote roadside or in a parking lot can invite trouble, such as thieves testing the car or security guards shooing you away. Ventilation is key; it's best to leave a small gap in the window to avoid suffocation. The temperature inside the car fluctuates at night, and without air conditioning, it can become stuffy or cold. I recommend only using the car for short breaks during emergencies, like on a long trip, and never in an enclosed garage. Be prepared with essentials like a blanket, water bottle, and a fully charged phone for emergencies. Short naps are manageable, but long-term use is bad for your health. Safety should always come first—don’t sacrifice your well-being to save on hotel costs.