Minnesota Law: Can You Get A Ticket For Warming Up Your Car On Cold Days?

There are two reasons people idle their vehicles during the winter here in Minnesota. Some people think you need to let the engine warm up before driving during the cold winter months to prevent damage. The other reason people idle their vehicles is to make their commute a little more bearable by warming the car’s interior.

Find out exactly how long you need to warm up your vehicle before driving it and the correct way to idle your car to avoid a fine below.

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Do I Need To Warm Up My Car Before Driving In Minnesota During The Winter?

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says you don't have to warm your car up unless you're driving a vintage vehicle, “Older cars, with carburetors, did need to warm up. Without warming up, the carburetor didn't get the right mix of air and fuel in the engine — and the car could stall."

The MPCA explains that warming up your car is no longer necessary because, since the 1990s, car manufacturers have replaced carburetors with electronic fuel injection.

The fuel injection system provides the optimal mix of fuel and air to the engine, helping prevent stalling in cold weather. Triple-A agrees and says you only need to let your vehicle idle for the time it takes you to fasten your seat belt.

Is It Illegal to Idle Your Vehicle in Minnesota?

Yes and no.

Appleman Law Services in St Louis Park explains that Minnesota law says, "It is illegal to leave the car unattended and running with the keys in the ignition." If you're wondering, vehicles with remote starts are fine because there isn't a key in the ignition.

Some cities have specific rules. Rochester's City Ordinance 11-6-9 makes it illegal to park a passenger vehicle on a street or alley with the vehicle running unattended.  The ordinance notes that drivers shall lock the ignition, remove the key and take the key with them.

Warming up your car isn't illegal if it's parked in a private lot or driveway, but keep in mind that your insurance may not cover theft if your car is stolen while idling.