What type of fire extinguisher is used in cars?

[VanCora]

Vehicle-mounted fire extinguishers used in cars are primarily dry powder extinguishers and water-based extinguishers. Dry powder extinguishers act quickly but are polluting and corrosive. Water-based extinguishers can extinguish all types of fires except Class D metal fires, are non-polluting, harmless to humans, and particularly effective against Class B liquid fires, making them suitable for engine and car fires. Currently, the most common portable fire extinguishers for automotive use on the market include dry powder extinguishers, ultra-fine dry powder extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, and water-based extinguishers. Dry powder extinguishers work through chemical inhibition, interrupting the chain reaction of combustion, offering high fire rating, comprehensive functionality, rapid extinguishing, electrical insulation properties, and good low-temperature performance.

[AbigailAnn]

I've been driving for over 20 years and have experienced several close calls. Once, I witnessed a car catching fire, and if it weren't for the owner having a dry powder fire extinguisher on hand, the entire vehicle could have been destroyed. For car fire extinguishers, the ABC dry powder type is generally recommended because it can handle various fire sources, such as engine oil fires or flames caused by electrical short circuits. As for size, it's best to choose a small 1 to 2 kg model—too large takes up too much space, while too small might not be sufficient. I recommend securing it under the passenger seat or in a corner of the trunk using fastening straps to prevent it from rolling around due to bumps. Remember to regularly check the pressure gauge, at least once a year, to ensure the needle stays in the green zone. Don’t buy the cheapest options, as they tend to fail easily. Brands like 3M or reliable domestic ones are good choices—safety comes first. Also, avoid leaving it in high-temperature areas of the car where it might be exposed to direct sunlight.

[StBlakely]

From a safety perspective, keeping a fire extinguisher in the car is a fundamental precaution. Personally, I insist on using an ABC dry powder extinguisher, as it is most effective against common automotive fire sources like grease, electrical wiring, and flammable materials. When choosing one, opt for a compact model—typically around 1.5 kilograms is sufficient—and place it in an easily accessible spot near the driver’s seat, such as the door storage compartment or under the center console. Don’t overlook installation stability; if the extinguisher falls out during a collision, it’s useless. Additionally, check its effectiveness every six months by inspecting the pressure gauge and expiration date label—many new drivers neglect this and only realize it’s expired when they need it. Practicing operation is simple: pull, press, and spray. It’s best to watch instructional videos to familiarize yourself with the process and avoid panic.

[JayceDella]

When I first started learning to drive, I was worried about fires. I asked my teacher and learned that cars commonly use ABC dry powder fire extinguishers. Choose a small bottle, about 1 kilogram, which is convenient to place in the trunk or front seat. Don't buy water-based ones, as they are ineffective against oil fires. Regularly check the pressure gauge; if the color changes, replace it with a new one to ensure it remains reliable and functional. This can save lives, especially during long-distance driving.