Do modern cars need to warm up before driving?
2 Answers
Modern cars do not need to warm up before driving. Reasons why warming up is unnecessary: In the past, cars used carburetors, which required reaching a certain temperature to function properly. Therefore, during winter, it was essential to warm up the car after a cold start; otherwise, issues like reduced power, failure to ignite, or stalling while driving could occur. However, modern cars are equipped with electronic fuel injection systems. As soon as the ignition is turned on, fuel is injected immediately, with the amount and direction of injection controlled by the computer. There is no need for the engine to reach a specific operating temperature to function, so warming up is no longer necessary. How to start a car: In winter, you only need to wait 20-30 seconds after starting the engine before driving. Keep the engine speed below 2000 RPM initially, and once the coolant temperature reaches one-third of the normal operating temperature on the gauge, you can drive normally. Idling for several minutes to warm up the car is completely unnecessary and can actually accelerate the buildup of engine carbon deposits. This is because most people still use internal combustion engines as the driving force for their vehicles.
Most modern cars no longer require prolonged warm-up before driving. Older models with simpler engine designs needed preheating to raise oil temperature for smoother operation. However, contemporary vehicles utilize advanced computer control systems and materials - the oil pump begins working within seconds after startup, circulating lubricant throughout the engine. During cold starts, idling for 10-20 seconds ensures proper lubrication before gently driving to allow more efficient warm-up while moving, avoiding excessive fuel consumption and emissions from prolonged idling. Practical tests across various brands, particularly turbocharged models I frequently drive, confirm immediate driving causes no issues - excessive stationary warm-up actually increases carbon deposits and reduces component lifespan. Modern technology truly simplifies vehicle operation.