One of the most convenient inventions for cars is push-button starters, otherwise known by the fancy name of keyless ignition. A driver carries an electronic key fob, which is a device that sends a wireless signal to the car telling it to “unlock” and activate the push-button starter.
It’s a high tech solution to the inconvenience of having to search for your car keys every time you start the car. Just carry the special key fob in your pocket or purse, and all you need to do is to enter, push the starter button, and off you go.
But in spite of this high-tech wizardry, there is always the danger of actually forgetting to turn the car off by pressing the on/off button because the physical activity of twisting an ignition key is no longer needed.
Silent RunningAlthough the likelihood of leaving a keyless ignition equipped car running by accident is rare, it still presents some dangers when it does happen. If a driver forgets to turn off the car as he or she exits, this may turn into a dangerous situation.
If the car is left running, harmful carbon monoxide fumes can be trapped in an enclosed garage or in basement level parking areas. If the garage is in a home, the toxic gas may seep into the house and cause health problems, either immediate or long-term, to people and pets.
For hybrid cars it is even more important for owners to remember to turn off the car’s engine as hybrids are silent when being driven in electric mode. If the car is inadvertently left on by accident, the gasoline engine will eventually kick in once it senses that the battery, that drives the electric motor, is low.
Warning Systems OnFortunately, a wide variety of keyless ignition equipped cars have a warning system to alert the driver that they are leaving before turning off the engine. An audible signal comes in the form of a short horn blast or a loud chirp. These alarms are available on newer cars produced by Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Toyota.
Car manufacturers that do not use an audible warning alarm are from Chrysler, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Volvo.
The Case Against Mandatory LawsWhile there have been efforts by the government to enact mandatory regulations for an automatic engine turn-off system for keyless ignition equipped cars, it also recognizes that there are some drawbacks to this.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said:
“There are scenarios, such as leaving pets in the vehicle with the air conditioning or heating system on while the driver shops or is at a restaurant, where an automatic shut off of the propulsion system would have adverse results.”
So perhaps the best insurance is between your ears—remembering to turn off your car before you leave.
Source:
Consumer Reports