Is It Illegal In NY To Cool Down Your Car Before You Get In?

While many people think New York State is cold or cool all year long, residents know better. We have some blistering hot days during the summertime.

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The First Official Day Of Summer Is June 20, 2024

Summer will kick off this year at the earliest it has in 128 years, according to the Farmers' Almanac. Of course, summer in New York brings lots of amazing activities and things to do like boating, food festivals, concerts, fishing, beach days, picnics, fairs, cookouts, and so much more.

"Hold on to your umbrellas … and tune up your AC! Summer is coming early this year, and it may bring the hottest temperatures in recorded history."

Can You Legally Turn The A/C On In Your Car Before You Get In?

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With the prediction of a hot summer to look forward to, can you legally start your car to cool it down before getting it in? The answer is NO.

Not in New York State, unless you have an automatic start. The same rules that stop you from warming up your car in the winter apply. So no, you can't sit in your cool living room while your car cools to the perfect 72-degree temperature. Yes, you can get a ticket and be fined for leaving your vehicle unattended while it's running.

Section 1210 of New York's traffic laws states that leaving a vehicle unattended is in fact illegal,

No person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the vehicle, and effectively setting the brake thereon and, when standing upon any grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway, provided, however, the provision for removing the key from the vehicle shall not require the removal of keys hidden from sight about the vehicle for convenience or emergency.

There is an exception. If you have a remote starter in your car, you're good to go. Since the key is not in the ignition, no one can drive away with your vehicle (unless they have the key).

If you don't have a remote starter in your car, you probably won't have a cop knocking on your door if your car is cooling down in front of your home. But, if you do get caught and an officer is having a bad day, you could be fined. Or worse yet, a thief could steal your car.