How long is it recommended to wait before taking a new car on the highway?
2 Answers
There is no specific time restriction for taking a new car on the highway, but according to the latest traffic regulations, new drivers have a 12-month probationary period. During this probationary period, drivers are not allowed to drive alone on highways and must be accompanied by someone with more than three years of driving experience. During the break-in period, prolonged slow-speed driving can easily lead to carbon buildup in the engine, necessitating a high-speed run. Here are a few key points to consider when performing a high-speed run: 1. Drive at low speed with high engine RPM, shifting gears only when the engine exceeds 3,000 RPM. 2. For automatic transmission vehicles, switch to "manual mode" or use lower gears to adjust. 3. Maintain engine RPM between 3,000 and 5,000.
I recommend not rushing to take a new car on the highway right away. It's better to drive it for a break-in period of 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers first. This phase is like an adaptation period for humans—the internal engine components need time to gradually wear in together. Running at high RPMs for extended periods can easily cause abnormal wear. On the highway, speeds are higher, and the new brake pads and tires also need time to adapt. Just last week, I saw a new driver take their brand-new car straight onto the highway, and the brakes were squealing. Actually, many new cars now undergo cold break-in at the factory, but to be safe, it’s still best to complete the break-in period before hitting the highway. During this time, drive more on city roads, avoid full loads or towing, and keep speeds under 100 km/h for the best results.
