How Long Does It Take for a Car to Complete the Break-in Period?
2 Answers
New cars typically have a break-in period of 1,000 to 3,000 kilometers. The following precautions should be taken during the break-in period: Warm up before starting: This applies to fuel-injected vehicles. Before starting, turn the key to the second position and wait for 5 to 10 seconds before ignition. This is because the fuel pump begins operating once the ignition is turned on, adjusting oil pressure and fuel injection volume. Waiting a few seconds before starting helps protect the new engine. Avoid emergency braking: Emergency braking not only shocks the braking system during the break-in period but also increases the impact load on the chassis and engine. It is best to avoid emergency braking within the first 300 kilometers of driving. Avoid overloading: Overloading a new car during the break-in period can damage mechanical components. Therefore, within the first 1,000 kilometers, domestic vehicles should not exceed 75% to 85% of the rated load, while imported vehicles should not exceed 90% of the rated load. Additionally, to reduce stress on the body and powertrain, choose flatter road surfaces and avoid vibrations, collisions, or emergency braking.
Generally speaking, the break-in period for a car is between 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers, depending on the vehicle model and usage. I believe when a new car is first purchased, it's advisable to avoid driving too fast or braking abruptly, as this helps the engine and gears adapt and break in better. When I drove a new car before, I always kept the speed below 100 kilometers per hour, regularly checked the engine oil and tire pressure, and avoided full-load driving. This is because the surfaces of new car parts still have minor imperfections, and gentle driving can reduce wear and extend lifespan. After this stage, the car's performance will stabilize, and fuel consumption can improve. Remember, timely first maintenance at the 4S dealership is also crucial, usually around 3,000 kilometers for a check-up to ensure everything is normal, which can prevent major issues later on.
