URGENT UPDATE: Drivers are being warned to abandon the dangerous habit of idling their vehicles to warm them up, as consumer advocacy group Which? confirms potential engine damage and significant fines could result from this practice.
In a statement released earlier today, experts highlighted that most vehicles do not require warming up, and idling poses serious risks. Michael Passingham, senior cars researcher at Which?, emphasized on social media, “No. Only cars with carburettors need this to be done, and they haven’t been made for more than 30 years.”
This warning comes as temperatures drop across the UK, raising concerns among drivers about frost-covered windscreens and chilly interiors. However, experts recommend against leaving the engine running, stating, “It is normally preferable to drive your car gently immediately after turning it on, rather than leaving it to warm up.” This method not only warms the engine more quickly, reducing wear, but also saves fuel.
The implications are immediate: drivers could face fines for idling. According to RAC Drive, leaving your engine on to melt ice could lead to a fixed penalty notice starting at £20. If this fine goes unpaid, it escalates to £40 within 28 days, and further to £80 if ignored. Repeated offenses could even result in fines reaching £1000.
Experts advise using an ice scraper or de-icing spray to clear windscreens, rather than relying on engine heat.
“While advice varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, it is normally preferable to drive your car gently immediately after turning it on, rather than leaving it to warm up,”
Which? cautioned.
The RAC further highlighted that idling not only invites fines but also contributes to environmental damage and increases the risk of vehicle theft. “An idling engine can produce up to twice as many emissions as one in motion,” they noted.
For those facing icy conditions, practical solutions include keeping a dedicated ice scraper and de-icer in the car. Experts recommend a DIY de-icer solution made from three parts vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle, or a mixture of water and salt. They strongly advise against using credit cards or boiling water, as these methods can damage your windscreen.
As winter approaches, it is crucial for drivers to ensure their vehicles are well-maintained to avoid costly repairs. Regular servicing, including winter checks offered by many manufacturers, is essential for safe driving in cold conditions.
Stay informed: This developing situation emphasizes the need for drivers to adapt to safe practices during winter months. Share this information widely to help fellow drivers avoid fines and keep their vehicles in optimal condition.
