Air conditioning in the car is always very useful in summer. But sometimes turning it on can be expensive.
A large part of France will have waited a long time for summer this year. But, finally, for a few days now, the sun and seasonal temperatures have settled in across the country. At a time when millions of French people are getting ready to take their cars to go on vacation, air conditioning will be necessary to cool the interior of the car and ensure a slightly more comfortable journey. However, a rule of the Highway Code should make you think twice before using it.
In France, driving a vehicle is not limited to respecting the traffic rules of the Highway Code. There are also regulations aimed at protecting the environment that, if not respected, can result in fines. One of these could concern you if you use the air conditioning in your car. Article R. 318-1 of the Highway Code, specified by a decree of November 12, 1963, stipulates that “parked vehicles must have their engine turned off, except in cases of necessity, in particular when starting from cold.”
So, if you are using the air conditioning in a stationary vehicle, for example on a motorway service station or in a supermarket car park, with the engine running, you may be stopped by the police. And the fine of 135 euros can quickly make you regret this little moment of freshness. Also, be aware that if you are planning to go on holiday abroad, this legislation exists in our neighbouring countries. In Italy, using the air conditioning in a car, whether you are parked or in a traffic jam, can cost you between 223 and 444 euros. It is cheaper in Germany but your wallet can still lose 80 euros.
To avoid any problems that could somewhat affect your holiday enjoyment, only turn on the air conditioning when the car is running. And if you decide to take a lunch break at a motorway service station and it is impossible to park your vehicle in the shade, remember to open your windows when you start off again to air out and cool the passenger compartment by a few degrees. After five minutes of driving, you can then turn the air conditioning back on to set an acceptable temperature, ideally between 5 and 8 degrees lower than the outside temperature. This is to avoid catching a cold and to avoid reducing fuel consumption too much.