What are the issues if the car is not turned off while refueling?

[OKimberly]

Forgetting to turn off the engine while refueling generally does not cause adverse consequences to the vehicle, but it does pose certain potential hazards. The following are the risks of refueling without turning off the engine: 1. Electrical leakage leading to explosion: Not turning off the engine while refueling does not damage the vehicle's components. However, with the engine running at high temperatures and the vehicle's electrical systems still active, any electrical leakage that produces a spark could lead to an explosion at the gas station. 2. High exhaust pipe temperature: During vehicle operation, the exhaust pipe continues to emit exhaust gases. On one hand, the exhaust pipe remains very hot, and on the other hand, the exhaust gases may carry sparks, creating a safety hazard. Of course, gas stations strictly prohibit staff from pointing the fuel nozzle towards the exhaust pipe.

[McVera]

Refueling without turning off the engine is really dangerous. My neighbor almost had a serious accident doing this last time. Gasoline vapor can explode or catch fire when exposed to high engine temperatures or sparks from the exhaust pipe—I've seen several such accidents in the news. Moreover, gas stations clearly require engines to be turned off during refueling, and staff will definitely intervene if they notice the engine running. Doing this long-term also harms the car, increasing carbon buildup and wasting fuel due to idling. For safety, don’t cut corners—turning off the engine, switching off the AC, and opening windows for ventilation is the safest approach. Thirty seconds of refueling time is worth enduring. Remember, life is only once—don’t take such risks just to save a little effort.

[VonBella]

I've repaired many cars and noticed that many people are unaware of the dangers of refueling without turning off the engine. When the engine is running, the exhaust pipe temperature can reach several hundred degrees, and any gasoline vapor escaping from the fuel tank opening may ignite upon contact. This is especially dangerous in summer when gas stations are hot, as the concentration of fuel vapor is higher. Additionally, the vehicle's electrical system, which remains active, could potentially produce sparks, and explosion-proof devices are not 100% reliable. I recommend developing the habit of turning off the engine, engaging the handbrake, and shutting off the power while waiting to ensure the fuel nozzle is securely attached. Safety is no trivial matter—don't wait for an accident to regret neglecting these details.

[DelDelaney]

I remember when taking the driving test, the instructor emphasized that the engine must be turned off when refueling. Static electricity generated by a running engine could ignite gasoline, and gas stations are high-risk areas where carelessness is unacceptable. Moreover, national regulations clearly state that vehicles must be turned off when entering the station for refueling. If someone fails to turn off the engine, the staff will immediately intervene or even call the police. Don’t risk a few minutes of air-conditioned comfort—safety comes first, and rules must be followed. Nowadays, I don’t even dare to use my phone while refueling; I turn off the engine and wait outside the car. Safety awareness must always be kept in mind.

[MacPhoebe]

From an environmental perspective, idling the engine while refueling is also inadvisable. Continuous exhaust emissions from running engines in enclosed gas station spaces lead to sharply increased pollution concentrations. Previous monitoring showed that 80% of air quality exceedances at gas stations were caused by vehicles not turning off their engines. Moreover, fuel wastage becomes evident - idling for ten minutes can consume an extra half-liter of gasoline. I always turn off my engine and get out of the car during refueling, taking the opportunity to check tire pressure and light conditions, which is both safer and more eco-friendly. After making this a habit, I've noticed some reduction in fuel consumption - an unexpected bonus.

[StSerenity]

As a seasoned driver, here are some practical tips: For cars with auto start-stop function, manually turn off the engine before refueling, as some models may restart when detecting the P gear. Ensure the air conditioning is off during refueling, as the ventilation fan could also pose a risk. In summer, it's best to park in the shade before turning off the engine to refuel, minimizing fuel vaporization. I usually take the opportunity to wipe the windshield during refueling, making use of those three to five minutes for minor maintenance. The key is to develop muscle memory—making turning off the engine and removing the keys a conditioned reflex. Remember, no matter how hot it is outside, it's still cooler than a fire truck.