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

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 on page 9‑28.

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 on page 9‑26.

If parking on a hill and pulling a trailer, see Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips on page 9‑57.

    See also:

    Head Restraint Adjustment
    Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly. To achieve a comfortable seating position, change the seatback recline angle as little as necessary whi ...

    Using the Radio to Control a USB Storage Device or iPod
    The radio can control a USB storage device or an iPod using the radio buttons and knobs and display song information on the radio’s display. (Tune): Turn to select files. SEEK: Press to go to th ...

    Traction – AA, A, B, C
    The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test ...