But an increasing number of people in Philadelphia are finding that they have only warmed up their cars for thieves.
Ever leave your car running for just a moment while you grab a quick cup of coffee? Well, that few seconds it takes could cost you your vehicle.
Police say it's a major issue. More people have been leaving their cars running, unattended and ready to be stolen.
"These cars are stolen because the owners are leaving the keys in the ignition to warm up their vehicles. This is happening in residential areas, especially with the cold weather we're having," said Lt. Ray Evers of the Philadelphia Police.
From February 4th to the 9th, 19 cars were stolen citywide. And it's not just a problem in residential neighborhoods.
"We're also seeing this at convenience stores like Wawa or Seven 11," Lt. Evers explained.
Police say even delivery vehicles have been stolen.
"Not with the work van, because somebody rides off with a couple thousand dollars worth of gear," said James Martin.
Many people prefer not to take the risk, especially in a big city like Philadelphia.
"My cousins do in Minnesota," said Martin, "but it's like 10 degrees there so everybody there carries around two sets of keys, one you leave in and lock your car and you run in with the other set."
As police say, it's better to have a cold car, than no car, take the keys out and lock it up every time.
"It's the city of brotherly love, but they'll still take your car," said Martin.
