How dangerous is it to fill up your car with gas while your car is still running?

Question

How dangerous is it to fill up your car with gas while your car is still running?

Answer 1

I don't see any danger at all. First of all your car is not supposed to have any stray sparks flying around, thats just a lawsuit waiting to happen. Second, it may seem like gas is extremely flammable but unless you have a closed area or a spark right by the nozzle, it won't do anything. In the cold dry weather, make sure you ground yourself by touching the vehicle. Most fires are caused by static electric discharge when you put the nozzle to the car. Also the risk of a cell phone igniting gasoline is unlikely also. I don't understand why you want to keep running though, thats just waisting gas. Your heater will still be warm even if you leave your car for a half an hour.

Answer 2

It is very dangerous, obviously with sparks etc. For the same reason that you should not be talking on your cell while filling up.

And if there is an explosion and you kill someone/damage buildings and cars, you life as you know it will be over.

It is just a matter of thinking about your actions and the consequences - in all things.

Answer 3

it's not dangerous it's just the result of do- gooders bull

Answer 4

It ranks right up there with No Smoking and using a cell phone while refueling...Is it really worth the risk?

Answer 5

Low chance of the engine igniting vapors,  but possible.    More likely,  static spark ignition of vapors.   Still,  not worth taking a chance,  and any idling is wasteful.

Answer 6

I've done it several times and ain't got blown up yet.

Answer 7

believe it or not static is the culprit for concern while pumping gas into a running car-----My starter was shot in my car and I asked the manager at the station if i could fill up with the car on,  he said some stuff about static/windy day out/underground tanks------its just bull c**p precations

Answer 8

there's a low chance of igniting the gas vapors from the running parts in the engine but its very low. you should turn ur car off to save gas while pumping anyways. now a days the gas is $3.00 it's gonna cost you that much to keep it running so just turn it off to be safe and to save money

Answer 9

Very, the vapors from the gas could be ignited by the engine from as simple as a spark from the plug wires or any electrical coming from the engine area.

Answer 10

surely that's just sheer laziness.  and what if someone decides to get in your car and drive off?  not like it's difficult for them!

Answer 11

static electricity builds up on the body of the car. When you take the gas filler hose and put it in the filler neck of the gas tank, it could cause a (static induced) spark similar to what you get at home when you touch a door k**b. But it could be enough to cause a conflagration.

It's always best to touch the metal body of the car with your hand before you open the gas cap and place the filler hose in it. If there is a spark it will be harmless .