How Long Should You Wait Before Taking a New Car on the Highway?
2 Answers
New cars can be driven on the highway at any time without any negative effects. Additional information is as follows: 1. Do not exceed 100 kilometers per hour on the highway, avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration, and gently apply the brakes and throttle. New cars undergo cold grinding treatment before leaving the factory. In practice, over 95% of car owners opt for a running-in period of 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers to allow all parts of the vehicle to fully contact, friction, and adapt. When the mileage reaches around 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers, it is considered the later stage of the running-in period. At this point, the speed can be increased to below 120 kilometers per hour, with the engine speed not exceeding 3,000 RPM. 2. It is advisable to have the car inspected at a 4S store before driving on the highway—usually free of charge. Check tire pressure and look for any signs of water or oil leakage. 3. Overloading a new car can damage its components. For domestic vehicles, do not exceed 75% to 80% of the rated load within the first 1,000 kilometers; for imported vehicles, do not exceed 90% of the rated load. Additionally, choose smoother road surfaces to minimize excessive vibration, impact, or emergency braking, thereby reducing stress on the body and powertrain.
After buying a new car, the dealer reminded me about the break-in period, typically the first 500 to 1,000 kilometers. As an experienced driver, I didn't understand this when I was younger and drove aggressively on the highway right away, which led to strange engine noises and costly repairs. It's recommended to drive at a steady speed in the city initially, avoiding sudden acceleration and hard braking, allowing the engine and transmission components to gradually adjust. After completing 1,000 kilometers, driving on the highway is fine, but it's safest to keep the speed under 80 km/h in the early stages. Don't forget to check the oil level and tire pressure to ensure the car is in good condition. A well-broken-in car has a longer lifespan, fewer issues, and provides a smoother and more cost-effective driving experience. In short, following the manufacturer's manual is always the right approach.
