Can You Put Gas In A Running Car?

 
Can you put gas in a running car, and is it safe to do so? Pumping gas while your car is still on is certainly tempting when you’d rather spend the time it takes to refuel in a heated or air-conditioned space. Why are there signs at every station in Brush directing you not to do it? The reason is that there are safety risks—and they’re significant enough that allowing customers to pump gas into running cars is a liability for gas stations. Get the details in this guide from McDonald Toyota of Fort Morgan, and be sure to reach out with any other questions about car care and safety!

Why Is It Unsafe To Put Gas In A Running Car?

So, why is it unsafe to put gas in a running car? There are several good reasons why you’ll see placards on the gas pump directing you to turn your car off before filling up:

• If gas vapors come into contact with static electricity, they can ignite and cause a fire. This outcome is more likely if you’ve left the engine running while you fill up. Even cell phone use can create static electricity, and it may be difficult to ascertain the presence of vapors coming into contact with your phone.
• You may accidentally set off the check engine light. Your vehicle is designed to detect fuel vapor leaks from anywhere in the fuel tank, fuel lines, and engine. When gasoline vapors escape via the tank cap when you insert the nozzle to fill up, it may trigger the check engine light. You’ll then need to reset the check engine light—otherwise, you won’t know when there’s an issue with the engine.

Schedule Auto Service In Fort Morgan Today

Whether you need routine maintenance or replacement fuel and emissions system parts, McDonald Toyota of Fort Morgan has you covered! Sterling-area drivers can browse and order genuine OEM parts online and schedule service online in minutes. You can also contact our service center directly for car care assistance, whether you need to have your transmission fluid checked or are looking for an affordable oil change near Akron.