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 9‑22.

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 9‑20.

If parking on a hill and pulling a trailer, see Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips on page 9‑45.

    See also:

    Lane Departure Warning (LDW) Light
    For vehicles with the lane departure warning system, this light is located on the center of the instrument panel. This light briefly comes on green while starting the vehicle. If it does not, h ...

    General Towing Information
    Only use towing equipment that has been designed for the vehicle. Contact your dealer or trailering dealer for assistance with preparing the vehicle for towing a trailer. See the following trailer ...

    Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
    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. I ...