How Long Should the Engine Warm Up in Cold Weather?
3 Answers
In winter, the engine should be warmed up for three to five minutes after starting. Below is relevant information about warming up the car in winter: Reasons for warming up the engine: After the vehicle has been parked for a long time, the engine oil flows back into the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. Therefore, when starting, the upper part of the engine is in a state without oil and lacks lubrication. It takes about 30 seconds after starting for the oil pump to circulate the oil to the parts of the engine that need lubrication the most, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. Methods for warming up the engine: After starting, wait for 30 seconds to one minute before driving, but avoid driving at high RPMs during this time. Maintain a low speed, keeping the engine RPM below 3000, generally around 2000 RPM. Otherwise, the severe wear on the engine and transmission may be irreversible. Once the engine temperature rises to the normal operating temperature (which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes), you can resume normal driving.
I drive to and from work every day in cold weather, and the engine warm-up time doesn't actually need to be too long. After starting, waiting for 30 seconds to one minute is enough to allow the oil to circulate to all parts of the engine. During this time, I can take the opportunity to check the windshield defrosting situation and tire pressure, then start slowly and drive for a few minutes without rushing to accelerate. Warming up for too long not only consumes more fuel but also emits more pollution, as modern engine designs have improved cold starts. If the temperature is below zero, waiting a bit longer is reasonable, but it's best not to exceed two minutes. Letting the engine warm up while driving slowly is more effective, protecting the engine and reducing wear. Remember to perform regular maintenance and use the correct oil viscosity, ensuring smoother starts in winter and safer driving to avoid accidents.
I prioritize environmental protection, so I try to minimize warm-up time when driving in winter. I start driving 30 seconds after engine ignition and drive gently for the first few kilometers, which saves more fuel than idling to warm up the car. Idling for warm-up only wastes gasoline and increases exhaust emissions. I use the initial driving time to defrost the windows for clear visibility. Engine lubrication warms up faster under driving load, making idling inefficient. Additionally, I check the battery condition in advance and use low-temperature engine oil to reduce cold-start time. Small habits like turning on the recirculation mode to accelerate cabin heating can collectively reduce my carbon footprint, protect the environment, and minimize the negative impact of fuel waste.
