One Thing We All Do to Our Cars in Winter is Actually Illegal in Texas

As the temperatures start to get cooler I’m pretty sure that we're all guilty of one thing that we probably don’t know could land us in hot water – literally. 

So the scenario I'm about to explain is probably something most of us can relate to: You're gearing up for the day, it's freezing outside, and the last thing you want is to hop into a freezing car. Especially if you have leather seats!

So, you decide to be a little strategic, heading out to start your car, letting it warm up while you cozy up inside.

If this is you, STOP!!!  Turns out that warming up our cars before we get into them is actually illegal! Well, at least in the Lone Star State. 

In Texas, it's a legal faux pas to leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running. Why? Well, the Lone Star rules dictate that you must shut off the engine before bidding farewell to your ride, making the dream of a toasty car seem like a distant reality.

If you don’t believe me, click here to read more about that law.

However, there is a way to get around this law, well kind of.

If you're lucky enough to have a car equipped with remote start, you've got the golden ticket to a warm morning because remote start lets you rev up your engine without having the keys in the ignition.

And why does it matter? Well, it turns out, thieves love an opportunity, and leaving your car running with the keys inside? That's an open invitation.