Can a Car Catch Fire While It’s Off?

Yes. A vehicle can ignite even when the engine is off and the car is parked, typically due to electrical faults that remain powered, fluid leaks contacting hot components, residual heat from parts like the catalytic converter, or high‑voltage battery issues in hybrids and EVs. While uncommon, safety agencies and multiple recent recalls show the risk is real enough to warrant precautions and awareness of warning signs.

Why Parked or “Off” Vehicles Can Ignite

Modern vehicles keep several systems alive even when the ignition is off—alarm modules, telematics, battery management, and other control units. A short circuit or component failure in these “always on” circuits can generate enough heat to start a fire, especially if a fuse is incorrect, a wire is pinched, or aftermarket accessories are poorly installed.

Residual heat is another factor. Engines, exhaust manifolds, and catalytic converters remain very hot after shutdown; a catalytic converter can reach temperatures capable of igniting dry vegetation or flammable residues on underbody surfaces. If a fuel, oil, or power-steering fluid leak contacts a hot surface after you park, ignition can occur minutes later.

In electric and plug‑in hybrid vehicles, damaged cells, manufacturing defects, or improper charging can precipitate thermal runaway, which may start while a car is parked—sometimes hours after charging or after an impact. Though statistically rare, these incidents are taken seriously, and manufacturers issue software updates and recalls to mitigate risk.

Finally, external factors—arson, nearby structure or vehicle fires, rodent-chewed wiring, or wildfire embers—can ignite a parked vehicle even when all systems are working correctly.

Recent Recalls Highlight the Risk

Multiple “park outside” recalls in recent years underscore that fires can start in vehicles that are shut off. These have included brake control modules, tow-hitch harnesses, or battery issues that could short and overheat without the engine running. Automakers and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advise owners of affected vehicles to park outside and away from structures until repairs are completed—repairs which are performed at no cost under recall campaigns.

Common Scenarios

Minutes After You Park

Heat-soaked components can ignite leaked fluids or combustible debris. Parking over dry grass after a highway drive, for example, is a known hazard because of the catalytic converter’s heat.

Long After Shutdown

A slow electrical short in an always‑powered circuit (battery, ABS module, telematics, aftermarket alarm, or audio equipment) can overheat wiring or components over time, even in a garage.

During or After Charging (EVs and Plug‑In Hybrids)

Faulty charging equipment, damaged connectors, or battery defects can cause overheating during charging or delayed thermal events after the session ends. Using certified charging gear and keeping software up to date reduce this risk.

After Damage or Flood Exposure

Post-collision damage, corrosion from flooding, or rodent-chewed insulation can create delayed faults that surface days or weeks later while the car is parked.

Warning Signs to Watch For

The following red flags can indicate an elevated fire risk in a vehicle that’s parked or recently shut off. Treat these signs seriously and investigate promptly.

• Sharp smell of burning plastic, insulation, or electrical “ozone” near the car (especially in a closed garage).
• Clicking relays, buzzing modules, or unusual sounds from under the hood or dash with the ignition off.
• Intermittent smoke wisps from the wheel well, engine bay, or underbody; or a hot spot on a single wheel (sticking brake or bearing).
• New warning lights (battery/charging, ABS, brake) or rapid battery drain when the car sits.
• Visible fluid drips or oily residue under the vehicle, particularly near exhaust components.
• Repeatedly blown fuses, melted fuse plastic, or warm-to-the-touch aftermarket devices.
• Corrosion, chew marks, or frayed insulation on wiring—common after rodent activity.
• Uncompleted safety recalls, especially “park outside” advisories from your manufacturer or NHTSA.

If any of these occur, disconnect unnecessary accessories, avoid parking in an enclosed garage, and schedule inspection—prioritizing recall repairs and professional diagnostics.

How to Reduce the Risk

Practical steps can significantly lower the odds of a parked-vehicle fire without compromising daily convenience.

• Check for open recalls by VIN at the official NHTSA website or your automaker’s site; complete repairs promptly—especially any “park outside” guidance.
• Fix fluid leaks quickly and keep the engine bay clean of oil residue and debris; avoid parking over dry grass or leaves after long drives.
• Use correct fuses and avoid overfusing; have aftermarket electronics professionally installed with proper wiring and protection.
• Inspect battery terminals and ground straps; replace swollen, corroded, or damaged cables.
• For EVs/plug‑ins: use manufacturer-recommended, UL-listed charging equipment; never use extension cords; keep software updated; and follow charging guidance after collisions or flood exposure.
• If your vehicle is under investigation or recall for potential parked fires, park outdoors away from structures until repairs are done.
• In attached garages, keep combustibles (solvents, gasoline cans) far from vehicles and charging equipment; consider a heat/smoke detector designed for garages.

None of these steps eliminates risk entirely, but together they meaningfully reduce the chance of an ignition event when the car is off or parked.

What To Do If You Suspect a Fire

Act quickly and prioritize safety if you smell burning, see smoke, or notice heat coming from a parked vehicle.

1. Get people and pets away from the vehicle and, if in a garage, evacuate the home.
2. Call emergency services immediately; provide your location and mention a possible vehicle fire.
3. Do not open the hood—introducing oxygen can cause a flare-up.
4. If you have a portable ABC extinguisher and the fire is very small and external, you may attempt from a safe distance, aiming at the base of the flames. If unsure, wait for firefighters.
5. For EVs or hybrids showing smoke from the battery area, keep clear and inform responders; battery fires require specialized tactics and large water volumes.
6. Do not re-enter a smoky garage or attempt to move a burning vehicle.

Once safe, document the incident for insurance and recall reporting; do not reconnect power or attempt repairs yourself.

Insurance and Consumer Protection

Comprehensive auto insurance typically covers vehicle fire damage, minus your deductible. If a recall-related defect is implicated, repairs are free and your insurer may seek reimbursement from responsible parties. Keep records of maintenance, recall notices, and any aftermarket installations to streamline claims and investigations.

Context and Frequency

Vehicle fires number in the tens of thousands annually in the United States. Safety reports consistently attribute a large share to mechanical or electrical failures, and the concentration of recent “park outside” recalls confirms that fires can start without the engine running. While the absolute risk for any given vehicle on any given day is low, the consequences can be severe—especially for cars parked in attached garages—so awareness and recall compliance are key.

Summary

A car can indeed catch fire while it’s off, most often due to electrical faults that remain powered, residual heat igniting leaked fluids or debris, or—in electrified vehicles—battery-related failures. Heed warning signs, act on recalls, fix leaks and wiring issues promptly, charge EVs with proper equipment, and avoid parking over combustible materials after driving. If a fire is suspected, evacuate, call emergency services, and let professionals handle the response.