How Long Should You Start a Car That Hasn't Been Driven for a Long Time?
2 Answers
When starting a car that hasn't been driven for a long time, the duration can range from as short as 2 to 3 seconds to being unable to start smoothly. Below is relevant information about car starting: 1. Reasons for the malfunction indicator light: ignition system failure, starting system failure, fuel injection system failure, intake system failure, ECU failure, fuel quality issues, engine oil lubrication system failure. Main symptoms of engine failure: poor acceleration or stalling, poor engine idling or stalling, inability to start ignition. 2. Correct driving methods: Warm up the engine before starting. In northern regions, preheat for at least 5 minutes in winter. In southern regions, 3 minutes. After warming up, drive at low speed for 1-2 kilometers until the water temperature reaches above 80 degrees before driving at high speed. Avoid driving at high gears with low engine RPM, as this can severely damage the engine. That is, while driving, the engine RPM should not be below 1200 or above 3000. (Low-speed driving with the clutch partially engaged, such as when entering or exiting parking spaces, is a different matter.) When shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, the car should accelerate until the engine RPM reaches 2000-2500 RPM. For other gears, accelerate until the engine RPM reaches 2000 RPM.
As a veteran driver with 20 years of experience, I've seen too many vehicles left parked for long periods. Before starting the engine, don't rush to ignite—take 10 seconds to let the vehicle complete its self-check. Pay attention to the sound when starting: it's best if it succeeds on the first try, and continuous cranking shouldn't exceed 5 seconds. After ignition, let the engine idle for at least 15 minutes to allow the oil to fully lubricate every corner of the engine. For cars parked for more than three months, it's advisable to first check the battery voltage; if it's below 12 volts, charge it. Remember to drive slowly for two kilometers after starting to remove rust from the brake discs and allow the tires to regain their roundness. Once, my neighbor's car, which had been parked for half a year, made clunking noises from the transmission when driven directly—all because it wasn't warmed up enough.
