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:

    Maintenance I
    • Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil. An Emission Control Service. • Engine coolant level check. See Engine Coolant (4.6L Engine) or Engine Coolant (3.9L Engine). • Windshield wa ...

    Exterior Mirrors
    1. Turn the selector switch to L (Left) or R (Right) to choose the driver or passenger mirror. 2. Move the control to adjust the mirror. 3. Turn the selector switch to to deselect the mirro ...

    Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
    Some state/provincial and local governments have or might begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on the vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent getting a vehicle ...