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At gas stations, there is usually a sign that says to stop engine while pumping gas.
I'm wondering why this is the case. There are no open flames while a car engine is running. The exhaust pipe will still be hot (for a little while) even if the engine is running. What about running a car engine makes it dangerous to leave it running while gas is being pumped into the vehicle?
Serious question...I'm an engineer by trade and can't figure this one out.
Aside from the physical issues others have addressed....it's also important to note that there are a lot of idiots out there, some drunk\high or both on top of that.
People leave cars in gear and running sometimes and then they wind up rolling into the store or other cars, lock keys in running car or have their cars stolen as they go inside to buy something....and then blame the gas station etc.
lots of reasons. Some mechanical...some just idiot-proofing.
Leaving your car running while you are near the back of the car is a good way to get car jacked.
There is that.
We had an event here last year where mom gassed up and went inside to pay, leaving toddler in the car.
A fellow jumped in, and drove away. He was tracked by the police, and eventually abandoned her car, stealing another. the whole adventure involved three or four cars jacked, one cop severely injured, multiple cars damaged, and the guy was caught, and convicted, and sentenced to a very long time in prison.
All because she left her engine running at the gas station.
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