What are the effects of refueling without turning off the engine?
2 Answers
Forgetting to turn off the engine while refueling generally does not cause adverse consequences for the vehicle, but it does pose certain safety hazards. During refueling, sediments may be stirred up, and fine particles could enter the fuel lines. If the engine is left running, the vehicle's electrical circuits and equipment remain active, and the engine operates at high temperatures. If there is any electrical leakage, it could potentially spark and cause a fire. Refueling precautions: Do not refuel before turning off the engine: Never refuel the car before turning off the engine. Avoid refueling during thunderstorms: It is best not to refuel during thunderstorm weather. This is also a safety consideration to prevent lightning strikes and fires. Since automotive fuel is a flammable gas, during refueling, flammable fuel vapors can disperse into the surrounding air. If struck by lightning, the consequences could be disastrous.
Not turning off the engine while refueling does pose safety hazards. The exhaust pipe is extremely hot when the engine is running, and combined with gasoline vapors, it can easily catch fire—just a single spark could lead to a serious blaze. A friend of mine once witnessed a similar accident that nearly burned down the entire car. Additionally, with the engine still running, vibrations could make the fuel nozzle unstable, increasing the risk of leaks. That’s why I always turn off my engine at the gas station—it’s a basic safety rule that protects not only myself but also others. Once it becomes a habit, it feels natural, and there’s no need to risk saving a little time. Safety first—better safe than sorry.
