Engine Idling. It’s a real issue for vehicle owners and fleet managers, but sometimes it’s simply unavoidable. So, what exactly is this and why is it such a big issue? It is a term used to describe when a vehicle is stationary, but the engine is left running. A driver might leave their vehicle running for a number of reasons. Perhaps you’re waiting in traffic or at a red light and the time that it takes to put the car into neutral and give your engine a rest, just doesn’t seem worth the potential panic of having to get it running again if the car in front of you suddenly starts moving or the light turns green. It’s true that some think that engine idling is actually more economical in terms of managing fuel consumption, but this is a myth.

The Problem with Engine Idling

Perhaps if you knew the downfalls of keeping a vehicle in this mode, you would change your mind. This can be extremely detrimental not only to your vehicle, but also to the environment, especially if you manage a fleet of vehicles. Leaving the engine idle increases the number of fumes that are released from the exhaust which reduces air quality and contributes to climate change. The pollutants expelled from engine exhausts are also linked to numerous health problems such as asthma, allergies, and lung disease. If you have a bad habit of leaving car engines running frequently, perhaps it’s time you kicked the habit - your wallet will thank you for it.

Not only because you are wasting fuel but because prolonged engine idling can actually damage a vehicle in numerous ways, which ultimately leads to higher running and maintenance costs. So, what kind of damage can engine idling do to a vehicle? Because the vehicle is not moving, the engine does not heat up to the appropriate temperature to burn fuel adequately. This results in fuel residue being left behind which can cause the oil to become contaminated. It can also result in build-up on the vehicle components. In addition, your cylinders, piston rings and exhausts can become damaged, and need require repair or replacement. Engine idling is also extremely damaging for your sparks plugs, causing them to become dirty and use up more fuel if not replaced.

This Can Be a Big Problem for Fleet Managers

When you manage a fleet, the less maintenance and repair costs that your business suffers, the more you can earn money with your vehicle and overall fleet. Many modern cars feature a start-stop system to help negate the downfalls of engine idling. But, if you’re a feet manager, you probably manage a diverse collection of vehicles that differ in age and make and model. If so, and your fleet has some older models without this system, you need to know what to do to prevent engine idling where possible. Learn more about fleet management software and how it can help your business to reduce costs and run more efficiently. You’ll be able to detect cases of engine idling and advise the driver on what he/she needs to do to stop the vehicle being in this mode for too long.