Rep Power: 338

Have a quick Q for the tech folks... is long term idling bad for a car? My brother took my car for a weekend tripped and told me he idled my car for 30 minutes, I really feel like smacking him on the head. I also have underdrive pullies without any ICE.... thanks all.

 
Rep Power: 0

Not sure if this is applied to small engine, but I learn in class that oil pressure keeps the shaft in the center of its cylinder, reducing friction between metals, its called hydro.... something (don't remember). For example, a bus waiting in the bus stop while its engine running increases its idle speed to a certain rpm.

 
Rep Power: 0

hydrolocking?
i think thats when the cylinder gets stuck in one posistion, i somehow did that to my go cart , back in the day before i got a car, lol

 
Rep Power: 302

I have idled my car on the 405 freeway for more than an hour once or twice.

I doubt it'll hurt it other than waste gas. Starting the engine puts the most wear on it.

Depends on the situation, I guess. In germany they used to just let the cabs idle when not in use. They are diesels, but it was proven that they used less fuel and lasted MUCH longer when running all day instead of starting and stopping. I doubt gas engines are that different.

 
Rep Power: 338

Hmm.. ok... just as long as no internal damage is done.... ok thanks all.

 
Rep Power: 330

i dunno, it shouldnt be that bad, but i think it says something in the manual about long idle periods.

 
Rep Power: 811

more carbon deposits build up, and it wastes gas. All in all its a bad idea. If you're gonna be at idle more than 5 mins, just turn the car off.