Can a new car go directly on the highway?
4 Answers
New cars can drive on highways directly. Because the first 500 kilometers of a vehicle require brake run-in, it's best to avoid driving on highways as the probability of braking is lower compared to driving on regular roads. During this period, the speed should not exceed 100 km/h. Occasionally vary the speed instead of maintaining a constant speed. For example: keep the maximum speed at 80-90 km/h for the first 500 km; 90-100 km/h for 500-1,000 km; 100-110 km/h for 1,000-1,500 km. After 1,500 km, you can drive more freely, appropriately stepping on the accelerator and keeping gear shifts between 2,000-2,500 rpm. However, avoid continuous long-distance driving - generally no more than 2 hours at a time, as overly uniform operating conditions are not conducive to proper run-in. During the run-in period, various components of a new car haven't reached optimal coordination. Prolonged high-speed driving may cause excessive wear on engine components. Additionally, the load should be minimized during run-in, as prolonged full-load driving increases engine stress.
I just bought a new car and took it on the highway—it felt really smooth. But a quick reminder: new cars need special care. Manufacturers usually recommend keeping the speed around 100 km/h and avoiding sudden acceleration for the first 1,000–2,000 km to let the engine parts break in gradually. Always check tire pressure before hitting the highway, and make sure the coolant isn’t leaking—overheating could leave you stranded. My past experience with a highway blowout taught me that safe driving matters way more than saving time. Regular maintenance is key for a new car—get that first service done on time to avoid costly repairs later.
I've specifically checked the manual about whether new cars can directly drive on highways. With upgraded automotive manufacturing processes nowadays, most new vehicles undergo testing before leaving the factory, making highway driving perfectly fine. However, the engine break-in period shouldn't be overlooked - it's best to keep RPMs below 4,000 during initial operation to prevent internal wear from forced break-in. Additionally, avoid driving too fast or too far; maintain reasonable speeds within the first 2,000 kilometers. Tires and braking systems also need time to adapt to new road conditions. Remember safety comes first - equipping a tire pressure monitor is quite practical.
On my first day driving the new car home on the highway, the entire trip was 120 kilometers. To be honest, you should take it easy with a new car—the parts fresh from the factory haven't fully adapted yet. Driving too fast in the first few hundred kilometers can easily damage the engine and reduce the car's lifespan. It's recommended to maintain a moderate speed during initial highway runs and avoid slamming the accelerator or brakes. Also, pay attention to fluid checks, such as ensuring the engine oil isn't low. Developing good habits can save you a lot on maintenance costs.
