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:

    Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
    Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a ...

    Hill and Mountain Roads
    Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different than driving on flat or rolling terrain. Tips for driving in these conditions include: Keep the vehicle serviced and in good shape. Che ...

    EPB Release
    To release the EPB, place the ignition in the ON/RUN position, apply and hold the brake pedal, and push down momentarily on the EPB switch. If you attempt to release the EPB without the brak ...