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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/idling-fuel-per-hour

About how much gas does a car burn just idling for an hour?

About a quarter to a half gallon every hour.

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Too littleLeave it running for every quick stop
Too muchNever idle, even at red lights
Just rightTurn it off when you're parked

Huh, didn't know that: Restarting the engine uses about 10 seconds' worth of fuel.

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Why are pigs bad drivers? They hog the road.
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References

Answer: About a quarter to a half gallon. Idling burns a quarter to a half gallon an hour, more with the AC on. If you're parked, turn the engine off.

  1. Fueleconomy.gov (DOE and EPA): Driving More Efficiently www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/driveHabits.jsp
    Idling can use a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour, depending on engine size and air conditioner (AC) use.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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