How long should a car warm up before driving?
3 Answers
In winter, it takes about 5~10 minutes for the engine to reach normal operating temperature, while in summer it only takes 1~2 minutes. You can determine whether the car has warmed up sufficiently by checking the tachometer and coolant temperature gauge. Here are methods to judge if the car has properly warmed up: 1. The normal idle coolant temperature is around 85 degrees Celsius. 2. During cold starts, the engine speed reaches 1500r/min. Below is an introduction about car warm-up: 1. Car warm-up refers to bringing the engine to its normal idle operating state, where the normal idle speed ranges between 800~900r/min. 2. During cold starts, the engine oil remains relatively viscous, resulting in poor lubrication. Suddenly pressing the accelerator to increase engine speed will accelerate component wear. Therefore, the correct warm-up method is to let the engine naturally warm up at idle speed without pressing the accelerator.
Many new drivers ask me how long they need to warm up their cars, and I always say that with modern cars, just a few seconds after starting is enough. In the past, older gasoline cars required one or two minutes to warm up, allowing the oil to circulate and lubricate the engine. However, modern car engines are designed with advanced technology and precise electronic control, enabling them to quickly reach optimal working conditions upon startup. Idling to warm up the engine actually wastes fuel and accelerates wear. My usual habit is to start the car, fasten the seatbelt, check the mirrors—about ten seconds—and then drive off. Slowly driving at low speed for a few minutes allows the engine to warm up naturally, which is better for both engine protection and fuel efficiency. In extremely cold regions with sub-zero temperatures, waiting up to thirty seconds is sufficient for the engine oil to thin and distribute evenly, avoiding dry friction. Prolonged idling not only pollutes the air and causes carbon buildup but can also damage exhaust system components like the catalytic converter. The maintenance manual recommends driving off immediately after starting—it's safer and more efficient.
As a car enthusiast who cares about energy efficiency and environmental protection, the issue of vehicle warm-up should be discussed from a consumption perspective. In the past, it was mistakenly believed that longer warm-up in winter was better, but now we know it's unnecessary. After engine startup, just 10 to 20 seconds are enough for oil pressure to build up and normal operation. Idling for warm-up beyond one minute leads to incomplete combustion, wastes gasoline, increases emissions, and pollutes the environment - which benefits no one. Manufacturers have tested that dynamic warm-up while driving is most economical, allowing faster engine temperature rise and safer operation. In daily use, I simply shift to D gear after ignition and drive gently while controlling RPM, avoiding hard acceleration until the coolant temperature gauge rises. In extremely cold conditions like cold waves, extending warm-up to half a minute is prudent to prevent mechanical stiffness. The key is avoiding prolonged idling - it damages the vehicle, wastes fuel, and has no benefits. Maintaining reasonable habits is what matters most.
