It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.
Caution: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier caution under Engine Exhaust .
Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Also see "If You Are Caught in a Blizzard" under Winter Driving .Caution: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Do not leave your 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 your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park .
If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a trailer, also see Towing a Trailer .
While parked with the engine idling for an extended period, turn off the following factory equipment if emergency lighting and communication equipment are operating:
| • | Air Conditioner |
| • | Fan |
| • | Rear Window Defogger |
| • | Factory Audio System |
When the automatic transmission is in PARK (P) and the driver's foot is off the brake and the emergency equipment is turned on, the engine rpm may increase to 1200 rpm to keep the electrical power of the vehicle at a steady rate. Even with the extra power boost, the vehicle may stall after long periods of time with a heavy electrical load.
See "Running Your Engine While You're Parked" in the Features and Controls section of your owner's manual for more information.
