Don’t Forget, It’s Illegal To Cool Off Your Car In Michigan

Summer is officially here in Michigan.

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While the warmer weather is welcomed, you need to make sure you're not breaking the law while trying to keep your car cool.

Is it legal to let your car run in the summer to cool your car off in Michigan?

Before 2017, Michigan vehicle owners were ticketed for leaving their vehicles unattended unless they locked the doors and used a remote start, even if their cars were sitting in the driveway.

However, a Michigan legislative bill canceled part of the rule, allowing Michigan drivers to warm their vehicles anywhere except on a highway.

What Is Considered A Highway In Michigan?

Michigan Road Terms and Definitions state a highway is, “a main road that provides direct access to buildings and intersections.”

What Was The Old Law?

The old law raised people's attention after a Roseville man was ticketed for warming up his car in his driveway. Since then Michigan law has since changed, allowing motorists a little more flexibility.

In 2017, House Bill 4215 amended the law, rescinding the wording that made the practice illegal "in any place."

This allows for vehicle owners to warm up their vehicles in their private driveways without risk of penalty. However, the legislation states that it is still illegal to leave an unattended running vehicle on a public or private roadway or parking lot.

 

So if you want to follow the law and not get a ticket remember it is only legal to let your car run in the summer to cool your car off or to warm up in the winter if you do so in your driveway.