HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) — As temperatures drop, many drivers find themselves tempted to idle their cars in the morning to warm them up. But experts say this long-standing habit may not be necessary and could even pose risks.
In Virginia, state regulations restrict idling for commercial and public service vehicles to three minutes in urban areas.
Exceptions allow tour buses and diesel-powered vehicles to idle up to 10 minutes under certain conditions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The goal of these rules is to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and promote public health. This stands unless, “the propulsion engine is providing auxiliary power for other than heating or air conditioning,” according to Virginia state codes.
Excessive idling isn’t cost-effective, especially in winter when fuel economy isn’t favorable. The U.S Department of Energy also adds that “Cold weather effects can vary by vehicle model. However, expect conventional gasoline vehicles to suffer a 10% to 20% fuel economy loss in city driving and a 15% to 33% loss on short trips.”
To prepare vehicles for winter, AAA recommends regular maintenance checks.
“We have six AAA Car Care Centers in Hampton Roads, and we are having a free winter maintenance inspection that is going on until the end of March,” said Ryan Adcock with AAA Tidewater.
Leaving a car running unattended also creates a security risk, providing a crime of opportunity for thieves.
