As summer temperatures soar, most car owners tend to leave their AC on even before starting the ignition. However, auto experts warn that this minor oversight can lead to an expensive repair bill of up to ₹30,000. Starting your vehicle with the AC engaged puts immense strain on the battery, starter motor, and the AC compressor.

The Impact on Your Engine: When you ignite the engine, the starter motor draws a massive amount of electrical current from the battery. If the AC is already on, the compressor clutch engages simultaneously, doubling the load on both the battery and the engine. Over time, this practice degrades the efficiency of the compressor and significantly reduces the lifespan of your car’s battery.

The Correct Way to Start Your Car: To ensure your car stays in top condition, experts recommend turning off all electrical accessories—including the AC, music system, and headlights—before switching off the engine. When restarting, wait for 2–3 minutes after the engine has stabilized before turning on the AC. This simple habit will save you from premature compressor failure and keep your maintenance costs low.