Drivers are being warned they could face fines of up to £40 for leaving their engines running while stationary to keep air conditioning on during the current period of warm weather.
With temperatures exceeding 20 degrees, motorists are reminded not to leave engines idling unnecessarily. The practice not only wastes fuel but also contributes to pollution and is against the law.
Under the Engine Idling Law, which forms part of Rule 123 of the Highway Code, drivers must not leave a vehicle's engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road.
Those caught breaking this rule could initially face a £20 fine, which may double to £40 if not paid within 28 days.
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The Highway Code instructs drivers to avoid letting their engine idle
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Experts are now urging drivers to consider alternative methods to keep their vehicles cool during the warmer weather.
Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar, explains that idling is the act of leaving the engine of a vehicle running unnecessarily.
"For example, if you're picking someone up from school and you wait outside with the engine on the whole time, this would be classified as idling," he said.
This practice is prohibited under Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which enforces Rule 123 of the Highway Code.
Evans warns that drivers could "face a fine upwards of £20 as per the Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) Regulations of 2002".
He clarifies that keeping the air conditioning on during warm weather is not considered a valid exception to the rule.
The expert added: "One of the few valid reasons to leave your engine idling while you aren't driving is if you need to defrost your windscreen on a cold morning.
"If you think you're likely to be waiting for more than a minute, it's best to just turn the engine straight off."
This applies in various situations including "loading or unloading goods, waiting at car parks, laybys or pick-up points", with Evans emphasising the environmental impact of unnecessary idling.
Whenever possible, drivers should park in shaded areas under trees or buildings to provide relief from direct sunlight.
Reflective window covers can also be effective for reducing heat entering from all sides of the vehicle.
Evans even suggested leaving windows slightly open, if safe to do so, as it "allows hot air to escape" and prevents heat from becoming trapped inside the vehicle.
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