Can You Drive on the Highway During the Car Break-in Period?
2 Answers
You can drive on the highway during the car break-in period, which typically lasts for 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers. The break-in period refers to the initial driving phase after a new car leaves the factory, during which the engine components wear in smoothly. During this period, the car's parts adapt to their environment, and any protrusions on the components are smoothed out. Key precautions during the break-in period include: 1. Warm up the engine before starting; 2. Avoid sudden braking; 3. Prevent overloading; 4. Avoid long-distance trips; 5. Do not drive at high speeds; 6. Use high-quality gasoline; 7. Do not remove the speed limiter prematurely; 8. Shift gears promptly; 9. Properly adjust the ignition and fuel supply systems.
Veteran drivers believe there's no issue at all with taking a new car on the highway during the break-in period. Modern vehicles are far less delicate than those from twenty or thirty years ago, with engines undergoing cold break-in at the factory. In fact, highway driving can help piston rings achieve better sealing. The key is to pay attention to the driving method: keep speeds below 100 km/h, maintain RPM under 3,000, and avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking. The first 500 kilometers are particularly crucial—avoid full loads and aggressive driving, and take breaks at service areas every two hours to let the car rest. On the highway, vary your speed instead of using cruise control the whole time, as this allows the transmission to break in properly. Different car brands may have varying requirements, so I recommend checking the owner's manual before hitting the road. In short, with the right approach, highway driving during break-in is perfectly fine and can even improve long-term fuel efficiency.
