Will a power bank explode if left in a hot car?

[McPatrick]

It is highly possible because most power banks contain lithium batteries. When exposed to high temperatures inside a car, the chemical reactions within the lithium battery may become more intense due to the heat, potentially leading to combustion or even explosion. Additionally, the following items can also pose safety hazards if left in a car. Here are more details: Carbonated drinks: Carbonated beverages contain large amounts of carbon dioxide gas. After being shaken during driving and then exposed to high temperatures, they are also likely to explode. Lighters: Lighters are also flammable and explosive items. Exposure to high temperatures can cause them to spontaneously ignite or explode.

[DelBennett]

I still remember last summer when I left a power bank in my car parked under the scorching sun for several hours. When I returned, it was so hot I couldn’t even touch it, and the casing had softened. Power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are prone to issues under high temperatures because excessive heat can cause uncontrolled chemical reactions inside the battery, generating intense heat and gas. If the casing can’t withstand the pressure, it may explode or catch fire. The temperature inside a car under direct sunlight can easily exceed 70°C, far beyond the safe operating range for batteries (typically 0-40°C). Now, I’ve made it a habit to always take my power bank with me when leaving the car, or at least store it under a shaded seat. I also recommend checking the battery brand and buying products with proper safety certifications—avoid cheap knockoffs. This isn’t just about protecting your car; it’s about preventing potential hazards. Safety on the road brings peace of mind.

[DiRylee]

I always worry about leaving small items in the car when I go out, and power banks are a major hazard. Once, my best friend forgot to take hers out of the car, and the battery swelled up, nearly causing an accident. High temperatures accelerate the decomposition of lithium-ion batteries, increasing pressure and the risk of explosion. The car can get as hot as an oven, making it even more prone to fires. If you have children or pets with you, the temperature inside the car is already dangerous, and a battery explosion could have unimaginable consequences. My practice is to always take the power bank with me when I leave the car or use the car's USB port for charging instead. I also avoid storing battery-related items in the trunk. Sharing this habit with friends has earned me praise for its practicality and for reducing unnecessary risks.

[VonViolet]

The core of a power bank is a lithium-ion battery, which is prone to thermal runaway in high-temperature environments. This is because the electrolyte decomposes more rapidly, generating gas and increasing internal pressure, which may cause the battery to swell, rupture, or even explode. During summer, car interiors often exceed 50°C, while the safe storage temperature for these batteries is only around 40°C. Leaving a power bank in a car is like keeping a ticking time bomb. A simple daily precaution is to avoid leaving power banks in the car for extended periods.