When the engine is on, it produces heat that can easily ignite fuel vapors in the air. This creates a serious risk of fire or explosion. Static electricity is another hidden threat, as even a small discharge can ignite gasoline fumes around the pump. Fuel stations are designed with the assumption that cars will be switched off during refueling, which means leaving the car on breaks key safety protocols.

Yes, it can. Keeping the engine on puts extra pressure on the fuel pump, which can shorten its lifespan or cause it to fail prematurely. Excess vapors might also enter the emissions system, leading to malfunctions that affect performance and increase repair costs. In the long run, drivers may even notice higher fuel consumption simply because the car continues to burn fuel unnecessarily during refueling.

The most important step is to always turn off the engine completely before inserting the fuel nozzle. Drivers should also avoid smoking, using mobile phones, or turning on electronic devices while filling up. Once finished, closing the gas cap tightly helps prevent vapor leaks. If any strong fuel smell or leakage is noticed, alerting the station staff immediately is essential to prevent accidents.

It all comes down to safety. The combination of heat, static electricity, and fuel vapors makes this practice extremely dangerous. Fuel companies worldwide have strict policies requiring cars to be switched off during refueling, and Saudi Arabia is no exception. Turning off the engine not only reduces fire risk but also protects the vehicle’s fuel system from unnecessary strain.