Does a new car's S gear need running-in?
2 Answers
New cars also require running-in. It is recommended to use mineral oil for the first 2,500 kilometers. The reasons why new cars need running-in are as follows: Transmission gears need running-in: The surfaces of the gears have slight roughness, which will wear smooth over time, making the gears appear shinier. More friction is necessary for proper running-in. During this process, there is no need to worry about overheating or damage to the gears due to restricted RPM. Crankshaft bearings need running-in: In operation, plain bearings do not have metal-to-metal contact, as there is a layer of oil film between them. The shiny marks on the crankshaft bearings are caused by oil loss between contact surfaces after prolonged engine inactivity, leading to direct contact with the crankshaft journal during cold starts. Therefore, running-in is required.
I'm someone who loves studying the details of cars. I remember that the break-in period for new cars used to be quite particular—new engine and transmission components needed a gentle run-in period to achieve optimal performance. The S mode, or Sport mode, keeps the engine RPM higher for quicker acceleration, which might increase internal wear during the break-in period. Nowadays, with advanced manufacturing techniques, the requirements aren’t as strict, but to be on the safe side, I’d recommend using the S mode sparingly for the first 1,000 kilometers or so. Instead, opt for Eco or Normal mode and drive smoothly. This allows the components to gradually adapt, reduces friction risks, and even saves some fuel. From my experience, after the break-in period, the S mode performs more stably, and the car’s lifespan tends to be longer. Plus, checking the manual—most manufacturers advise avoiding aggressive driving in the initial stages.
