Should You Turn Off the Engine When Stuck in Traffic for One or Two Minutes?
2 Answers
You do not need to turn off the engine when stuck in traffic for one or two minutes. Here are the specific details: Exhaust fumes are produced in traffic jams: During traffic jams, some drivers habitually roll down the window on the driver's side. When the side window is open, exhaust fumes enter the car along with fresh air. If this persists for too long, the driver and passengers will be surrounded by "exhaust fumes," leading to dizziness, chest tightness, and other health hazards. Correct actions during traffic jams: Drivers should learn to follow vehicles skillfully. For example, during a traffic jam, drivers should maintain an appropriate distance of about two meters from the car in front and try to slightly offset to the left. This not only effectively prevents other vehicles from cutting in but also helps the driver observe the traffic conditions ahead, allowing timely responses.
When encountering short traffic jams lasting one or two minutes while driving, choosing to turn off the engine has become second nature to me. This is not just to save a bit on fuel costs, but also because idling unnecessarily burns fuel and produces exhaust emissions that pollute the environment. Pollution in modern cities is severe, and every small habit adds up to make a difference. After turning off the engine, it becomes quiet, and the car interior feels more peaceful. Restarting is quick and doesn’t affect getting back on the move, unless the traffic is particularly heavy. I’ve done the math: idling for a minute consumes more fuel compared to restarting, and turning off the AC for a short while is manageable. After adopting this habit, my monthly fuel consumption dropped by about 5%, benefiting both my wallet and the environment. In the long run, the wear on the vehicle’s battery is minimal, especially with newer cars designed for durability. In short, energy-saving and environmental protection start with the details, and it’s worth sticking to.
