Drivers could face fines of up to £110 for using their car's air conditioning while stationary this summer, experts have warned. The penalty applies when the engine is left running unnecessarily, known as idling.
Standard penalties for engine idling
The standard penalty for engine idling is a fixed penalty notice of £40 from a police officer, or a penalty charge notice of £80 from a civil enforcement officer. Both fines can be halved if paid within 14 days.
However, some councils, including Islington and Westminster boroughs in London, have used local powers to impose larger fines of up to £110. These areas suffer from the worst air pollution in the UK and have maximised penalties using devolved authority.
RAC advice on staying cool
RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: "While we’re all desperate to stay cool, just sitting in the car with the engine and air conditioning running and going nowhere isn’t advisable. Due to the air pollution this causes, you risk a fine from a police or civil enforcement officer."
Most people avoid the fine because a warden or officer will first ask the driver to cut the engine. A fine is only issued if the driver refuses or leaves the car unattended while idling.
Tips to keep your car cooler
- Where you park matters: Park in shade under a tree, by a wall, or in a multi-storey. If no shade, park so the sun hits the rear of the car.
- Use a sunshade: A reflective windscreen sunshade blocks direct sun and prevents the dashboard and steering wheel from heating up.
- Crack the windows: Leave windows open a tiny bit to let trapped heat escape, only if it's safe.
- Cool faster without air-con: Open doors and windows briefly to expel hot air before using air-con, then switch to recirculation mode.
