What Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Cars?
3 Answers
Prolonged sealing of the car or high engine idling during startup can lead to incomplete gasoline combustion, generating excessive carbon monoxide that causes poisoning. High Engine Idling: When the car engine operates at high speeds with elevated idling, incomplete gasoline combustion occurs, producing excessive carbon monoxide. At this point, the carbon monoxide concentration inside the vehicle becomes dangerously high. Passengers remaining in this sealed environment may suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning. Tightly Closed Windows: During cold weather, car windows are typically kept tightly closed. With multiple occupants, exhaust fumes accumulate without proper ventilation. Combined with prolonged air conditioning use, oxygen levels inside the vehicle drop significantly, leading to passenger poisoning.
Years ago, I nearly had an accident while driving. It happened when I started the engine in my garage to check the fuel line but forgot to leave the garage door open. Exhaust fumes ended up backing up into the car. At first, I felt dizzy and nauseous, and later learned these were early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide mainly comes from incomplete combustion of gasoline in the engine, and if the exhaust pipe is aged, clogged, or leaking, these fumes are more likely to be drawn into the car. When driving, avoid running the engine for long periods in enclosed spaces like garages or tunnels, especially when using the heater in winter. Some people might sleep with the recirculation mode on, which worsens ventilation and allows fumes to accumulate. Regular checks of the exhaust system and car sealing are crucial—ideally, get an annual maintenance check. If you have a garage, always ensure the door is open for ventilation, and never take shortcuts by working on the car inside. That experience taught me a lesson, and now I always check the surroundings for safety before parking and ventilating.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I know that carbon monoxide in a vehicle is extremely dangerous, primarily due to engine exhaust leaking from the tailpipe or being drawn into the cabin. Think about it—exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that binds to hemoglobin, causing oxygen deprivation. Common causes include a damaged or clogged exhaust pipe, or windows sealed too tightly without ventilation, especially during prolonged idling in garages or congested roads. I recommend keeping the windows slightly open while driving to maintain airflow, particularly when using the AC—avoid keeping the recirculation mode on all the time. For older cars, remember to inspect the exhaust system regularly and don’t wait until issues arise to fix them. Simple habits like parking in open spaces away from walls can significantly reduce risks—safety first, right?
