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.

WARNING:
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.

WARNING:
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 Towing a Trailer.

    See also:

    Brake Adjustment
    Every time the brakes are applied, with or without the vehicle moving, the brakes adjust for wear. ...

    Fuel Gage
    When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have remaining. Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage: ...

    Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirrorwith Compass
    Your vehicle may have an automatic-dimming rearview mirror with a compass. (On/Off): This is the on/off button for the automatic dimming feature and compass. ...