It’s a simple habit that many of us take part in while pumping gas: we get out of our car, start filling up the tank, and we leave the engine running. We do it for convenience – or perhaps because we’re used to seeing other people do it. But when you really stop to think about it, you might be wondering if this is actually a good practice? Is leaving your car running while fueling something that is safe to do?
In this post, we will be mythbusting the notion that it is okay to pump gas while your car is running. We’ll also provide expert advice on the best practices for filling up at the gas station. So, sit back, and let’s dive into the topic of mythbusters pumping gas while car is running.
The Dangers of Pumping Gas While Your Car is Running
It’s not safe to pump gas while your car is running as it can lead to a fire or explosion. This is because running cars generate heat and electricity that can ignite gas vapors.
To prevent accidents, turn off your engine before fueling up and avoid smoking or using your cell phone at the pump. Modern cars have safety features like automatic shut-off systems and low-fuel warning lights to further reduce the risk of accidents.
Related: How to Read the Gas Gauge?
What Happens If You Pump Gas With the Car On?
In a worst-case scenario, leaving your car running while pumping gas can lead to a fire. It is highly recommended that you turn off your engine and avoid any sources of ignition during refueling. Doing so will significantly reduce the risk of an accident occurring.
Is It Safe to Pump Gas While the Car is Running?
The truth is, it can be safe, as long as you take the proper precautions. It’s important to ensure that there are no potential sources of ignition, such as cigarettes, lighters, or static electricity, before you begin fueling your vehicle.
While it may be tempting to keep the engine running to avoid restarting it, it’s best to turn it off just to be on the safe side.
Related: How Many Miles in a Gallon
Tips for Pumping Gas Safely
1. Turning Off Your Engine While Pumping Gas
This is because fuel vapors can easily ignite when there is an ignition source nearby. If the engine is running while you pump gas, there is a risk of a spark occurring, which could lead to a fire or explosion.
2. Don’t get back in your car
Did you know that the friction between your clothing and your car seat can cause static electricity buildup? This can be particularly dangerous as static electricity fires at gas stations are more common than they used to be. Purdue University reported that one of the primary reasons for this increase is the switch to self-serve gas pumps.
So, when you’re pumping gas, it’s best to stay outside your car until you’ve finished pumping and have safely put the gas cap back on.
3. Keep children in the car
As long as the car is turned off, you can keep your children in backseat supervised. This will them from running around and potentially creating an ignition source for fuel vapors.
4. Don’t smoke anywhere near a gas station
This should go without saying, but it’s important to reiterate: smoking near a gas station is incredibly dangerous. The fuel vapors can easily ignite and cause an explosion or fire.
5. Keep gasoline off your skin
This may seem obvious, but gasoline can easily get on your clothes and skin when you pump, so it’s important to be mindful of where you put your hands and arms. If you do get gasoline on your skin, wiping it off with soap and lukewarm water can help minimize the risk of irritation.
FAQs about Mythbusters Pumping Gas While Car is Running
Is There a Fire Risk?
Yes, there is a risk of fire when pumping gas while the car is running. This is because the engine can act as an ignition source for fuel vapors, and if these vapors ignite then a fire or explosion could occur.
Can You Pump Gas While the Car is Running?
Yes, as long as you take certain precautions and avoid any potential sources of ignition, such as cigarettes or static electricity.
What Should You Do While Pumping Gas?
To ensure your safety while pumping gas, always remember to turn off your car’s engine and avoid any sources of ignition such as cigarettes, lighters or static electricity. Don’t get back in your car until after you have finished refueling and have safely put the gas cap back on.
What happens if I forgot to turn off my car while pumping gas?
Don’t worry, as long as there are no sources of ignition near the gas pump, you should be able to safely pump your gas. However, it is best to take the extra precaution and turn off your engine before starting to refuel. This will reduce the risk of an accident occurring, which coould lead to fire or an explosion.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog post on mythbusters pumping gas while car is running.
In conclusion, it is safest to turn off your engine while filling up your gas tank. This will ensure that the risk of an accident resulting from a spark or other ignition source is minimized. Always remember that safety should be your top priority and you can never be too careful when dealing with gasoline!
I’m Timothy Ballard, owner of a used car dealership in Springfield. I love just about everything automotive, but I have a special place in my heart for trucks. I’m an ASE Certified Master Technician, so I know my way around a car. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and hiking new trails.