2008 ran in park too long -- Thanks bugbug

[bugbug]

my 2008 Ex 35 journey engine ran in park for 4 1/2 hours accidently grandson left it running. I checked the oil it was clear not real hot, the temperature gage read normal. The engine was hot to the touch of the cover. I let it cool down and started ,let it run for a couple of minutes sounded ok. I am hoping my engine is ok. Anything else I should check?? thanks bugbug

[Dattebayo]

Why would you think idling an engine for a long time is bad for it? I mean, it does have a cooling system, a fan and I assume someone wasn't sitting in the car revving it the whole time, right?

The only real damage from idling I can possibly see would be clogging up the catalytic converter, but I doubt that's really an issue either anymore, at least for the last few years or so...

[bugbug]

THANKS,... I think I was worried because it has a alumium engine, and besides that I am a woman, all I really know about cars ( and I admit) is how to drive one.

[Dattebayo]

There are plenty of women out there who know cars, so I don't know what to take from what you said... But just so you know, there are several types of car fleets out there that idle their engines longer than that. Police, cab agencies, govt. car pools, etc...

[bugbug]

No harm ment, I am happy a lot of women knows cars. Sorry if I offended anyone!
bugbug

[nissangirl74]

First of all, welcome to NICO. Second, your car should be just fine. However, I think I might have your grandson pay you back for the gas he cost you.

[szh]

The only concern I might have is that the engine compartment cooling assumes the car is moving ... for some components to get additional air cooling through the radiator.

Specifically, I'd get the battery checked to make sure it didn't overheat and develop a problem somewhere ... if it looks good (no bulges showing overheating) and still starts normally, you are probably fine.

Z

[PapaSmurf2k3]

It'll be fine.

Nissan tests their cars idling in heat capabilites by parking them in what is essentially a natural oven that they constructed in the Arizona desert. They leave them there pretty much from sun up to sun down to ensure nothing bad happens, and that the cooling systems are capable in extreme conditions.

The only way that would have hurt your car is if the fan was broken, or the cooling system was empty.