How Long Should a Car Be Warmed Up?
3 Answers
Car warm-up time only needs 30 seconds. After starting the car, wait 30 seconds to one minute before driving, but avoid high-speed driving at this time. Maintain low speed and keep the engine speed below 3,000 to 3,500 RPM, ideally around 2,000 RPM. Both summer and winter require warm-up, with winter requiring a longer warm-up time than summer. After sitting overnight, the lubricating oil on the friction surfaces of the engine has mostly dissipated, losing its protective oil film. Low temperatures increase the viscosity of the lubricating oil, reducing its adhesion and fluidity, which increases resistance when starting the engine. Driving under these conditions will place additional load on the engine and cause unnecessary wear.
After driving for so many years, I've realized that warming up the car isn't about a fixed time. Generally, 30 seconds to 1 minute is enough, as modern engines can quickly lubricate the oil. In cold winters, wait a minute or two to let the engine warm up slightly, but don’t exceed 2 minutes—excessive idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. In hot weather, there's usually no need to warm up the car; you can drive off directly. After starting, I always drive slowly for a few minutes, which helps the engine heat more evenly and protects its components. Remember to check the oil and coolant levels, as regular maintenance improves warm-up efficiency. If the engine makes unusual noises, it might be a lubrication issue, and a shorter warm-up can help prevent damage. In short, warming up too little or too much harms the car—the key is balance.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I make preheating my car a daily routine. Modern models require a short warm-up, usually done within half a minute, while older cars may need 1-2 minutes. The key is to avoid aggressive acceleration immediately after starting; instead, drive slowly for 5 minutes to warm up the engine. This method saves fuel and is eco-friendly, reducing exhaust emissions. In summer, preheating can be skipped—just start driving, but check tire pressure to prevent deformation due to cold stiffness. Regular oil changes improve preheating efficiency and prevent malfunctions. I use a mobile app for remote preheating, which is convenient and fast, but I don’t rely on it. Remember, the purpose of preheating is to protect the engine—don’t waste time waiting too long. Once it becomes a habit, driving becomes more effortless and time-efficient.
