What are the causes of carbon monoxide poisoning in cars?
3 Answers
Carbon monoxide poisoning in cars is relatively common. Since carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, it is easily overlooked. Therefore, it is important to avoid staying in a sealed car for too long, especially when the engine is running. When the engine is idling, incomplete combustion can produce a large amount of carbon monoxide, which can easily lead to poisoning. Below are the specific causes of poisoning: 1. Incomplete Combustion: When a car is operating at high speeds, the exhaust contains a low level of carbon monoxide. However, when the engine is idling, incomplete combustion produces a large amount of carbon monoxide, leading to high concentrations in the air. Prolonged exposure in such conditions can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. 2. Poor Air Circulation: On hot summer days, many drivers tend to leave the engine running with the air conditioning on while parked. In this scenario, the idling engine generates a high concentration of carbon monoxide. If the windows are not opened, the air inside the car can only circulate through the air conditioning system. Over time, the carbon monoxide produced by the engine accumulates inside the car, increasing the risk of poisoning. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
I've seen quite a few cases of car poisoning at the auto shop before, mainly caused by carbon monoxide. For example, leaving the engine running while resting in a garage with windows and doors tightly closed, combined with exhaust pipe leaks, allows the gas to silently seep into the vehicle. Inhaling too much can cause dizziness and nausea, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Car poisoning can also occur due to dirty air conditioning systems harboring bacteria, new car plastics releasing pungent chemicals like formaldehyde, or accidentally spilling battery fluid inside. The key is to stay vigilant—don't idle in enclosed spaces when parked, and consider installing a small detector to monitor air quality. Regularly check the exhaust system and air conditioning filters, and ventilate by opening windows for a few minutes to disperse odors.
I once almost got poisoned in a car. A friend and I were chatting in the garage with the engine running, and within ten minutes, I felt dizzy and disoriented. It was terrifying. Later, I found out it was due to exhaust gas flowing back into the car. There are several reasons for this: the car was old with cracks in the exhaust pipe, low tire pressure causing air leakage under the chassis, or mold growing in the air conditioning system becoming a toxic source. The pungent smell in new cars when first purchased is actually toxic gases released from plastics. Always open the windows to ventilate before taking kids into the car, and don’t leave pets in the car for too long. Safety first. Simple habits can save lives, such as turning off the engine when parked and ensuring proper ventilation outdoors.
