Can automatic transmission cars run on highways during the break-in period?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission cars can run on highways during the break-in period. Here is an explanation of the automatic transmission gears: 1. P stands for Parking gear; 2. R is Reverse gear, used when backing up; 3. N is Neutral gear; 4. D is Drive gear; 5. 2 is Low-speed forward gear, also known as Limitation gear; 6. 1 is the lowest forward gear. The usage methods for automatic transmission gears are: 1. The vehicle can only be started in P or N gear. To shift out of P gear, the brake must be pressed. Turn on the power, press the brake, shift to N gear, and after ignition, shift to D gear to move forward directly; 2. When switching between N, D, and 3 gears, no shift button is needed. However, shifting down from 3 gear to lower limitation gears requires pressing the shift button, while shifting from lower to higher gears does not require pressing the shift button; 3. Do not shift into N gear to coast while driving; 4. After driving, the engine must be turned off and shifted into P gear before the key can be removed.
As someone with extensive experience in car maintenance, I believe it's best to avoid highway driving during the break-in period of an automatic transmission. The engine and transmission components of a new car are still tightly fitted and need time to gradually adapt to each other. High-speed driving can cause the engine to rev too high, leading to rapid temperature increases, increased friction, and the risk of premature wear. Automatic transmission fluid also requires time to circulate evenly to every corner, and sustained high speeds can disrupt this process. Most manufacturers recommend keeping the speed between 60-80 km/h and the RPM below 2500 during the initial 1000 to 1500 kilometers. Highway driving often involves sudden acceleration and prolonged high-load operation, which can shorten the transmission's lifespan. While occasional short highway trips are acceptable, it's better to avoid them. Waiting until after the break-in period to drive on the highway ensures your car will be more durable and run smoother. Regularly checking oil levels and coolant temperature can also prevent unexpected issues. Driving carefully in this manner will make the car quieter and more fuel-efficient.
