Running the Vehicle While Parked

It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

Idling a vehicle in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. EngineWARNING

Idling a vehicle in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. Engine exhaust may enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area that has no fresh air ventilation. For more information, see Engine Exhaust .

It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the automatic transmission shiftWARNING

It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the automatic transmission shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do not leave the vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to P (Park).

Follow the proper steps to be sure the vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park .

If parking on a hill and pulling a trailer, see Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips .

    See also:

    Electric Parking Brake Light
    The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) light should come on briefly as the engine is started. If it does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. The parking brake status light comes on w ...

    Safety Belt Pretensioners
    This vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for front outboard occupants. Although the safety belt pretensioners cannot be seen, they are part of the safety belt assembly. They can help tighten the ...

    Traction Control System (TCS)
    The vehicle may have a traction control system that limits wheel spin. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started. ► To turn off traction control, press and release the ...