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 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 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 Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips  .

    See also:

    Maintenance Schedule
    Owner Checks and Services At Each Fuel Stop . Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil  . Once a Month . Check the tire inflation pressures. See Tire Pressure  . . Inspect the tires f ...

    How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
    This section is only for people of adult size. There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and infants. If a child will be r ...

    Fuel Range
    Displays the approximate remaining kilometers (km) or miles (mi) you can drive without refilling the fuel tank. This estimate is based on the current driving conditions and changes if the dr ...