Don't Idle for More Than 30 Seconds — Turn It Off

The Problem

You idle at drive-throughs, waiting for someone, or warming up the car. It wastes gas and money.

The Hack

If you'll be stopped for more than 30 seconds (not in traffic), turn off the engine. Modern engines don't need to warm up — driving gently warms them faster than idling.

Why It Works

Idling gets 0 MPG. A modern fuel-injected engine uses less fuel to restart than it burns in 30 seconds of idling. The 'warm up your car' myth was true for carbureted engines — not since the 1990s.

Pro Tips

• Modern cars don't need warm-up — drive gently for the first few minutes
• Drive-through: turn off while waiting
• Waiting for someone: engine off
• Idling 10 minutes/day = 25-30 gallons wasted per year