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What happens if you pump gas with the car on?

I know you’re not supposed to smoke when you pump gas for obvious reasons. But I like to keep the heat on in the car when I pump gas in the winter. Someone told me that’s a terrible idea. So what happens if I pump gas while the engine is on?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Whoever told you that pumping gas with the car on is a terrible idea is 100% correct. If you pump gas with the car on, you greatly increase the chance of
gasoline
vapors coming into contact with electricity or heat. If this happens, the vapors can ignite, causing a fire or even an explosion.
If you want to keep warm while you’re pumping gas, you have other options:
  • Wear warmer clothes
  • Put on a pair of gloves
  • Throw on another layer
  • Go inside the store (just make sure to take the keys with you and keep an eye on your vehicle)
Hopefully, you never have to deal with a fire or explosion due to a negligent person at the pump. But just in case something out of your hands causes damage to your car, you may want to consider
comprehensive coverage
.
If you’ve never had comprehensive coverage or you aren’t sure where to compare rates, start with the
Jerry
app.
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