Can a Car That Has Undergone Major Repairs Drive Long Distances?

[FernandoFitz]

A vehicle that has undergone major repairs can still be driven long distances, but it's important to ensure that the driving speed is not too fast and to avoid speeding. Most importantly, overloading should be avoided. Carrying too little or too much cargo: When driving at high speeds, a new car should be in a fully loaded state. Therefore, it's necessary to find enough people to match the vehicle's full load mass as specified in the manual. If enough people cannot be found, items can be placed in the trunk to compensate. Going for a high-speed drive before an oil change: High-speed driving not only requires skill but also the right timing. The quality of the engine oil is a direct factor affecting the engine. Therefore, it's crucial not to drive at high speeds before an oil change. During high-speed driving, the engine operates at high RPMs, leading to maximum mechanical wear. The first batch of engine oil contains the most metal shavings and impurities. Using this oil with a high amount of debris for high-speed driving can significantly increase engine wear and even cause abnormal wear.

[DelCameron]

I've had a similar experience. I drove a car with a rebuilt engine from Guangzhou to Wuhan, covering a distance of 1,000 kilometers without any issues. The key is the quality of the repair. If it was properly rebuilt with new parts at a reputable repair shop, long-distance driving is completely fine. However, it's advisable to drive a few hundred kilometers on shorter trips first to break it in and check if the fluids, belts, and cooling system are functioning properly. Regular maintenance is crucial—change the oil and filters periodically to keep the car in stable condition. During long-distance drives, avoid prolonged high RPM operation, and check the tires and brake pads during rest stops.

[SanAndres]

I believe extra caution is needed when driving a major-repaired car on long trips, as older vehicles that have undergone major repairs may still have hidden issues. For example, aging wiring or loose components can easily cause problems at highway speeds. The prudent approach is to have a comprehensive inspection at a professional shop before departure, ensuring the engine and transmission are functioning properly and all fluids are topped up. Bring emergency tools like a spare tire and warning triangle for long journeys. If the vehicle is too old, it's best not to challenge excessively long distances - safety comes first. It may be fine for daily urban commuting, but long-distance risks should be carefully assessed.

[Maria]

From my own experience, as long as the overhaul is done carefully, the car can still handle long-distance trips. After replacing the chassis components on an old car of mine, I often took it out for trips, and it performed steadily on single journeys of over 300 kilometers. The key is to test it on a short trip first to see how it reacts, and then take it on the highway if there are no issues. Listen to the engine sound more often on the road, and avoid revving it too high. Overall, if the repairs are done properly, long-distance travel is generally safe.