Can a car be driven on the highway during the break-in period?
4 Answers
During the break-in period, a car can be driven on the highway, but it is necessary to control the speed and the engine's RPM. The speed can be increased to 120 km/h, but the RPM should not exceed 3000. The break-in period for a car is typically considered to be the first 3 months or 3000 to 5000 kilometers. This period refers to the initial driving distance after a new car leaves the factory, allowing the engine components to wear in smoothly. The first maintenance cycle for a car is usually around 5000 kilometers. Methods for using a car during the break-in period include: 1. Correctly adjusting the ignition and fuel supply systems; 2. Changing gears promptly; 3. Not removing the speed limiter prematurely; 4. Using gasoline from reputable gas stations and high-quality engine oil; 5. Avoiding excessive loads and long-distance trips; 6. Preheating the engine before starting; 7. Avoiding emergency braking.
I just heard a friend talking about this recently. It's fine to take a new car on the highway during the break-in period, the key is to control the speed and RPM, don't push it too hard. My car made several highway trips within the first 1,000 km break-in period, always keeping the RPM under 3,000. Actually, highway driving is better than stop-and-go city traffic for uniform engine break-in. Just remember not to cruise at the same speed for too long; it's better to change speeds every half hour so the piston rings and cylinder walls can fully seat. Also, treat the brake pads gently and avoid sudden braking. In short, just follow the manual and you'll be fine - cars aren't that delicate these days.
Last week, I accompanied my relative to the 4S shop for the first maintenance. The technician said that the engine has already undergone cold running-in when it leaves the factory. As long as you don’t push the car to the redline, it’s completely fine to drive on the highway during the break-in period. The key is to avoid two pitfalls: first, don’t keep the engine at high RPM for a long time, such as continuous high-speed driving over 120 km/h; second, avoid climbing long slopes with a full load of passengers and cargo. It’s recommended to drive between 80 and 100 km/h on the highway for the first 2,000 kilometers, which is the safest way to complete the running-in while also saving fuel. My personal habit is to fill up the tank for the first three refuels to prevent air condensation water in the fuel tank.
When I picked up the car last year, the salesperson reminded me that the break-in period is like an athlete warming up. It's okay to drive on the highway but not too aggressively, and it's best not to exceed 3,500 RPM. The key focus is protecting the transmission—avoid frequent sudden acceleration with an automatic, and ensure each gear is properly broken in with a manual. It's recommended to change lanes or adjust speed periodically when driving on the highway. Additionally, oil temperature is crucial; the oil film needs at least 200 kilometers to fully coat the metal surfaces in a new car. During the break-in period, that whining sound during sudden acceleration is a warning—immediately ease off the throttle.
