
Fire extinguishers used in cars include dry powder extinguishers, ultra-fine dry powder extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, and water-based extinguishers. Vehicle fire extinguishers are specifically designed for automotive use and fall into two main categories: non-storage pressure suspended ultra-fine dry powder automatic fire extinguishing devices for vehicles, and mini storage pressure suspended ultra-fine dry powder automatic fire extinguishing devices for vehicles. Different extinguisher materials have varying service lives. Generally, vehicle fire extinguishers have a service life of two years. If there is no expiration mark, the pressure gauge needle in the green zone indicates proper function. When the needle enters the red zone, it means the extinguisher has insufficient pressure and must not be used further. Expired fire extinguishers can be dangerous.

Having driven for over a decade, keeping a fire extinguisher in the car is essential. Common automotive fire extinguishers mainly include three types: dry powder, water-based, and carbon dioxide. Dry powder extinguishers have the widest application range, capable of putting out oil, electrical, and general fires at an affordable price, though the residual powder can be messy to clean up. Water-based extinguishers are eco-friendly, non-polluting, and non-irritating to skin, making them particularly suitable for extinguishing circuit fires in new energy vehicles, though they are slightly more expensive. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are ideal for precision equipment fires, such as smoking dashboard circuits, but care must be taken to avoid frostbite. For regular family cars, I recommend keeping a small-capacity dry powder extinguisher (around 1 kg) under the driver’s seat for easy access, and remember to check the pressure gauge every two years to ensure the needle stays in the green zone.

As someone who prioritizes family safety, I believe car fire extinguishers are extremely important. The three common types on the market each have their own characteristics: dry powder extinguishers are the most economical and suitable for regular family cars; water-based extinguishers are non-toxic and harmless—I use this type in my car, especially reassuring with children onboard; while CO2 extinguishers are ideal for protecting delicate circuits in premium vehicles. When purchasing, pay attention to the fire rating label—ABC-class is the most practical. I recommend choosing a size between 500 grams to 1 kilogram, as larger ones take up unnecessary space. Always secure it in the trunk mesh pocket to prevent jostling, and note that environments exceeding 55°C will reduce its effectiveness.

Over the years of car enthusiasm, I've noticed many car owners overlook fire extinguisher configuration. There are three common types for mainstream vehicles: dry powder is the most prevalent, costing around twenty bucks; water-based is particularly effective for electrical fires; CO2 type suits modified audio circuits. Focus on the fire rating like 1A21B marked on the cylinder - higher numbers indicate stronger firefighting capability. Choose one with a pressure gauge, ensuring the needle stays in the green zone for safety. Don't cheap out on uncertified products - proper fire equipment stores carry them. I mount mine under the front passenger seat for sub-10-second access.


